Early 2010s vehicle design favored simplicity and efficiency, and the 2010 Ford Start Concept embodied that trend perfectly. The small, streamlined coupe currently resides as part of the U.S. Heritage Fleet, parked alongside countless vehicles from Blue Oval history.
Contrary to what its small stature might suggest, the 2010 Ford Start concept was inspired by classic sportscars, such as the Porsche 356 Speedster and the Alfa Romeo Zagato SZ. Its body was built from hybrid aluminum and high-strength steel along with an extremely lightweight aluminum safety cell. Its panels were made of recyclable composites, and its aerodynamics were helped along by a full underbody tray to keep things smooth.
The interior of the 2010 Ford Start concept utilized sisal fiber to keep things light and simple. It featured a "MyFord Mobile" center console for smartphone integration, which was a novel idea at the time the concept was built. Passengers were cradled by two bucket seats, while its snap-fitting inserts were prime for customization, too.
Powering the cute 2010 Ford Start concept was the turbocharged 1.0L EcoBoost I3. At the time, that engine hadn't made it to production quite yet, but it was said to be capable of delivering "comparable power and torque to a larger I4 engine combined with exceptional fuel economy for a petrol engine," according to Ford. For context, that engine - which powered the Ford Fiesta, the Euro-spec Ford Focus, and the Ford EcoSport - delivers 125 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque.
"In an era of constant visual noise, we have created a car that conveys visual purity and harmony, in which every line has meaning and purpose. The Ford Start delivers a dynamic, personality driven design that stays true to the global Ford brand," said J Mays, group vice president, Ford Design, and chief creative officer at the time.
The 2010 Ford Start concept is an excellent example of Frutiger Aero design language, right down to its glossy finish, organic designs, and futuristic tech. In fact, it was given Autoweek's Best Concept Award, praised for its avant-garde but simple styling. It resides in the Heritage Fleet alongside plenty of other concepts, like the 2006 Ford Reflex.
With lovely minimalist coastline-inspired graphics.
Another nice example from this generation.
The Bronco II offered a lot more options than the S-10 Blazer.
Where available, it's now a $1,000 upgrade.
If you don't want black, it'll cost you $750.
