Ford defends ‘drift mode’

Ford Australia has had to defend the Ford Focus RS “drift mode” feature – which helps the driver to perform a perfectly crafted drift, says the NZ Herald. Media outlets around Australia have slammed Ford for condoning “hooning” and suggesting that the mode will lead to high-risk driving on public roads. Ford Australia says the feature should only ever be used in a closed environment, as shown on the dashboard. Dave Pericak, the director of the company’s in-house tuning arm, Ford Performance, said feedback had been extremely positive. “We have had no negative feedback,” he said. “In fact, it’s been quite the opposite.” Pericak agreed it was one of many innovations Ford might need to think twice about if they were considered negative by consumers. “Also, as far as ‘thinking twice’, yes . . . on more and more innovations like this. If you are a true car person, then you not only appreciate features like this, but you love them. Our customers love the fact that we get it.” According to a report from news.com.au, safety advocates are furious with Ford for selling a vehicle with a feature that allows unskilled drivers to “drive like a hooligan” on public roads. Ford imported 50 of the cars into New Zealand, retailing at $69,880, and they were snapped up — with drift mode.