Concept Car Of The Day: 1981 Ford Probe III - AllCarIndex
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Ford's groundbreaking aerodynamic concept car, the Probe III, had the potential to provide a 27 percent better fuel economy than a similar-sized 1982 model car. Created by Ford of Europe's design team, the Probe III was the latest in a series of design studies by Ford aimed at achieving fuel savings through advanced air-management techniques.
The President of Ford, Donald E. Petersen, explained that the Probe III incorporated several advanced aerodynamic features that significantly reduced the drag coefficient to .22, which was about 50 percent better than the rating of new cars at the time. Despite its experimental features, the Probe III remained a practical four-passenger car that did not compromise on present-day family-car standards of roominess, comfort, and luggage space.
The car's aerodynamic features included a fully enclosed underbody with an adjustable front section to smooth airflow, plastic wheel arch extensions, contoured lower body sides, a bi-plane rear spoiler, and aerodynamic door mirrors. The interior boasted new materials, original features, and a fully electronic display module.
The Probe III also showcased technological advancements such as drainage channels behind the tops of the doors, flush-fitting glass for front and rear screens and door glasses, recessed headlamps, and an underbody pan with an automatically adjustable front section to enhance ground effect at high speeds.
Ford engineers introduced narrow section low-profile radial ply tires mounted on narrow rims, aerodynamically efficient wheel covers for brake cooling, and flexible plastic inserts in the wheel arches to reduce air turbulence. One of the most dramatic additions was a twin-deck bi-plane rear spoiler, which significantly improved rear aerodynamics.
Mr. Petersen emphasized the role of aerodynamics in Ford's fuel economy efforts, noting that the company had steadily reduced its coefficient of drag over the years. By 1990, Ford aimed to reach an average coefficient of drag of .33, leading to substantial fuel savings for consumers.
The Probe III exemplified Ford's commitment to innovation and efficiency, setting the stage for future advancements in automotive design and fuel economy.
