(January 15, 2011) DETROIT — The AutoWeek editorial team has named Ford Vertrek the Best Concept of the 2011 North American International Auto Show. The Vertrek concept rose above such contenders as the Mini Paceman, GMC Sierra All Terrain HD and Toyota Prius C to win the coveted award.

“Ford has been so focused on serious stuff such as small cars and fine-tuning production models that it hasn’t had a lot of time to craft concepts capable of turning heads at auto shows,” said the editors of AutoWeek. “Enter the Vertrek. It blends European styling with the practical needs of Americans. The best part is that Ford design boss J Mays says this concept is very close to the look of the next Escape.”

Other AutoWeek winners were  — Porsche 918 RSR Concept, Best in Show; BMW 1-Series M Coupe, Most Fun; and 2011 Chrysler 300, Most Significant.

Based on the global C-segment platform, Vertrek represents the vision of Ford’s top design and engineering talent on how best to attract and satisfy future SUV customers around the world. “Vertrek unites stylish design, world-class craftsmanship and outstanding capability to present a fresh vision that we believe will resonate globally,” said Mays.

The Vertrek concept further evolves Ford’s global kinetic design philosophy. The vehicle’s rising beltline creates an athletic stance, while its dynamic lines and taut surfacing convey muscularity.

A highly efficient new 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine from the global Ford EcoBoost family is underhood, giving Vertrek the power of a larger-displacement powerplant while delivering significantly better fuel economy and CO2 emissions. In Vertrek concept, this engine is mated to a new, fuel-saving Ford Auto Start-Stop technology. By 2013, 80 percent of Ford’s global nameplates and 90 percent of Ford’s North American nameplates will have an EcoBoost option.