2018 Ford EcoSport Release Date, Specs News: Compact Crossover's Honeycomb Cargo Shelf Inspired by Bees

By Georgia Gana, Christian Post Contributor Thursday, February 23, 2017

Ford Motors has previewed the innovative cargo shelf of the all-new EcoSport. According to the automaker, the upcoming subcompact crossover will be able to carry large and heavy loads of cargo due to the use of a honeycomb design that was inspired by bees.

The 2018 Ford EcoSport will feature an adjustable cargo shelf floorboard measuring 38.5 x 25.25 inches. It is only six pounds but can hold up to 700 pounds of cargo. Specifically, the vehicle's trunk will be able to hold combinations of five 94-pound bags of concrete mix, four 40-pound bags of spoil and eight water containers with up to 8 pounds each.

The use of the honeycomb design for the cargo shelf ensures that owners will be able to transport large volumes of cargo despite the compact dimensions of the 2018 EcoSport.

"The hexagonal design of honeycomb is a testament to nature's ingenuity. Not only is it strong, it's super light. Customers can slide the shelf into multiple different slots like an oven rack; even store it on the back of the seats. It helps make EcoSport super-flexible in everyday use," said Mike Mazzella, assistant chief engineer for the EcoSport.

Furthermore, the bees-inspired cargo shelf is eco-friendly as it is made from 100 percent recyclable cardboard and water-based glue, sandwiched in between two layers of composite material.

The cargo shelf can be set up in four different positions. The lowest position ensures maximum storage. Then, in the middle position, the cargo shelf acts as a floorboard to secure more fragile items underneath. The highest position, on the other hand, makes the cargo floor line up with the second-row seats. Owners also have the option of removing the cargo shelf and stowing it for future use.

Apart from a spacious cargo, other notable features for the crossover include a sleek, sporty and aerodynamic design with a powerful engine and the latest technologies like the Blind Spot Information System and the SYNC 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility,

The 2018 Ford EcoSport will arrive at dealerships in early 2018. Pricing will be announced closer to the subcompact crossover's launch.