Concept Car Of The Day: 1983 Ford Flair - AllCarIndex
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In the summer of 1983, Ford Motor Company's Diversified Products Operations (DPO) made a grand entrance at SITEV 83 in Geneva, Switzerland. Displayed alongside several other product and technological advancements was the highly styled plastic-body concept car called the "Flair."
This European debut of the Flair marked DPO's second appearance at SITEV Geneva, an industrial exposition that provided a platform for worldwide vehicle suppliers to showcase their latest offerings to industry professionals.
The Flair, a one-of-a-kind concept vehicle, was a true embodiment of DPO's product and manufacturing capabilities. Built in collaboration with ASC, Inc. of Southgate, Mich., this futuristic car featured a mobile "phone of the future" that was truly ahead of its time.
Manufactured by DPO's various divisions, the Flair boasted exterior body panels made of Fiberglass Reinforced Polyester (FRP), a bronze-tint glass windshield, and a unique topcoat paint system. The interior featured a new soft design instrument panel, Polyknit seat inserts, and an integrated "hands-free" cellular mobile-telephone system developed by Ford's Electrical and Electronics Division.
The groundbreaking phone system allowed users to make calls from the car itself, with display and dialing functions integrated seamlessly into the Message Center Trip Computer. This innovation showcased Ford's expertise in applying new technologies to enhance communication in automobiles.
In addition to the Flair, DPO's exhibit highlighted other advancements from its divisions. The Climate Control Division showcased new radiator and heater assemblies, the Electrical and Electronics Division featured the EEC-IV system and an electronic air-spring suspension, while the Plastics, Paint, and Vinyl Division displayed innovative seating fabrics and exterior coatings.
Overall, Ford's presence at SITEV 83 was a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and excellence in the automotive industry. The Flair and other showcased products served as a preview of the future of automotive design and technology, setting the stage for what was to come in the years ahead.
