Global I4 goes PZEV

The partial-zero-emissions Focus takes advantage of the inherent combustion efficiency of Ford's new global four-cylinder engine with additional refinements to offer world-class emissions performance.

Only a year after its North American introduction, Ford's new Global I4 engine is receiving useful upgrades that will let a special version of the Focus be certified as a Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) by the California Air Resources Board. A stiffened block is part of the package of changes, and all of the 2.3-L variants of the engine will benefit from the new design starting next year. The PZEV designation indicates that, in addition to meeting the stringent Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle test, the car also eliminates virtually all evaporative emissions.

The new engine, which does not yet have a handy name for convenient reference, like the Zetec which preceded it, could ultimately reach annual production volume of 1.5 million units, according to Dave Szczupak, Vice President of Powertrain Operations for Ford Motor Co. That would represent 20% of the company's annual engine output.