1995 Ford Econoline Chicane

Official press release:

FORD ECONOLINE CHICANE - A NEW TWIST ON AMERICA S BEST-SELLING FULL-SIZE VAN

With a distinctive red, white and black paint scheme, Ford Motor Company's Econoline Chicane concept van is ready to go off to the races with Ford's new V-10 engine.

"The Chicane is designed to be a support vehicle for a Superbike/Grand Prix motorcycle racing team — as functional and exciting on the inside as it is on the outside," said Andy Jacobson, design director for the Ford Commercial Truck Vehicle Center.

Powered by the company's first production V-10 engine, the Chicane is based on the new 1997 E-350 Econoline Super Club Wagon. As a concept vehicle, Chicane showcases customized design features. It made its public debut in February at the 1996 Chicago Auto Show.

"This concept is an exciting expression of the versatile nature of the award-winning Econoline vehicle line," Jacobson said.

An avid motorcycle racing fan and participant, Jacobson lends firsthand knowledge to outfitting the Chicane with features a racing team expects in a support vehicle.

Chicane takes its name from a thrilling series of tight turns in opposite directions in an otherwise straight stretch of a road-racing course.

The one-of-a-kind Chicane is a specialized version of America's favorite full-size van and celebrates Econoline's history of leadership and versatility. It also highlights many new and improved features in the new 1997 Econoline series, including the all-new optional V-10 engine.

Four captain's chairs with leather seating surfaces, custom trimmed to match the Chicane's paint scheme, highlight the interior. The passenger compartment is separated from the functional, low-maintenance cargo area by a bulkhead. In the rear, the transport and work area, built for race support activities, is large enough to stow the motorcycle, tools, spare parts and other gear needed for a day at the track.

The Chicane concept van embodies the same quality, durability, versatility, safety, and comfort found in all Econolines. At the same time, it explores many design and functional possibilities. They include:

Functional Features

•    A new 6.8-liter single overhead cam modular V-10 engine — Ford's first production V-10.
•    Electronic four-speed overdrive automatic transmission.
•    Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes.
•    Four-wheel anti-lock brakes.
•    All-speed traction assist.
•    Custom 18-inch aluminum wheels and P27560R18 Goodyear tires.

Exterior Features

• Bold red, white and black paint and graphics.
• Elevated roof, with skylights, for improved head room and storage of the aluminum motorcycle loading ramp.

Interior Features

•    Ergonomic instrument panel.
•    Dual air bags.
•    Pretensioning front safety belts.
•    Height-adjustable safety belts.
•    Luxurious driver/passenger compartment featuring four captain's chairs, trimmed to match the exterior paint scheme.
•    Dual media audio system (CD and cassette).
•    Rearview video camera and visor-mounted LCD monitor.
•    Siemens TetraStar travel information system.
•    Front console featuring storage compartments and cupholders for beverages up to 32 ounces.
•    LCD color video monitors in the front seat backs.
•    Videocassette player in the rear console between captain's chairs.
•    Seat-integrated restraints for rear passenger seats.
•    Solar-powered hot air purge system.
•    Custom bulkhead between passenger compartment and rear cargo/transport area.
•    Rear cargo area trimmed in stainless steel, featuring an integrated fold-out work bench and tool chest, storage compartments, and tie-down hooks for secure motorcycle transport.