"We know that, by 2010, for the first time, more than half the world's population will live in cities. That means that people will need a small, tough vehicle that can both navigate and stand its ground in the big city." – J Mays, Group Vice President of Design and Chief Creative Officer

The SYN^US is, for the most part, a fanciful look at what a B-car for the U.S. might be. As such, its safety and security systems have a fanciful slant as well.

SECURING THE PERIMETER

The exterior of the Ford SYN^US concept borrows more than the appearance of secure structures such as vaults and armored cars. It also offers a secure mode that elevates the vehicle's defenses when it is stationary. This would provide particular benefit under certain circumstances including parking overnight in an unfamiliar area.

In secure mode, shutters are deployed to protect the windshield and door glass. Because they use bullet-resistant glazing and are non-opening, the small windows mounted high in the flanks do not require this level of protection.

QUITE A COMBINATION

The four-handle spinner on the rear hatch is just one of the details inspired by the security of a bank vault.

One vault-like feature of the Ford SYN^US concept is a combination lock with a dial mounted on the B-pillar to secure the driver's door.

Another vault-like mechanism is the four-handled spinner used to latch, unlatch and lock the tailgate of the SYN^US concept. Just the appearance of this device could serve as a deterrent. And eliminating a piece of glass as large as the back window removes another opportunity for someone with wrongful intent.

OBSERVATION POST

Some may think of the 45-inch LCD monitor as solely an entertainment device. True, this gigantic display can accommodate a variety of infotainment technologies. However, as an added security measure, a series of external cameras linked to the LCD monitor allow occupants to monitor activities on the street – even with the security shutters in place. One such camera is housed in the four-handle spinner on the rear door, which also assists the driver during backing up maneuvers.