Ford shows Edge Concept

Ford took the wraps of the Edge Concept at the LA Auto Show, and the company says the crossover offers strong hints at the next-generation production Edge.

The big news is a sleeker shape, front and rear LED lights, better fuel economy and technology that includes self parking and obstacle avoidance.

The self parking is a prototype technology using sensors that allow the Edge to be parked at the touch of a button, or remotely. Sensors also control obstacle avoidance, which sends out warnings if it detects slow-moving or stationary obstacles. The system will automatically steer and brake the Edge to avoid a crash.

The concept has a new EcoBoost engine (probably the new 2.3 liter that we expect to see in the new Mustang and the Lincoln MKC ) with stop/start technology, along with active grille shutters up front.

Inside, Ford promises better materials and build quality, and as such the concept has a leather-wrapped dash, 10-inch touchscreen and a unique steering wheel.

Ford says it will sell the next production Edge around the world, and it is particularly interested in China (where it expects SUV sales to rise 100 percent by 2017) and South America, where it expects 39 percent growth.

About the LA Auto Show

The Los Angeles Auto Show has long served as a spotlight for "green" cars, and a popular place to unveil new hybrid and electric vehicles. We'll have photos, video and complete coverage of all the manufacturer reveals and top news from this year's LA Auto Show right here, so check back often.

By Autoweek Editors