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Ford is commemorating the 40th anniversary of the legendary RS200, a hallmark of Group B rally racing, with the unveiling of the RS2.00 Concept. This virtual concept car not only pays homage to the iconic 1984 model but also embraces modern technology and design, bridging the gap between automotive history and the digital realm. The name "RS2.00" cleverly references both the original vehicle and the notion of a "Version 2.0," symbolizing a new chapter in the legacy of the RS200 while highlighting its video game-inspired roots.
The inception of the RS2.00 Concept stemmed from an unconventional approach when Amko Leenarts, Ford of Europe Design Director, collaborated with author Steve Saxty during the creation of his book in the "Secret Fords" series. Initially intended as a design exercise for the book's conclusion, the project quickly evolved as a passionate team of designers, motivated by their love for the original RS200 and video games, sought to explore its potential further. They dedicated their own time to develop additional sketches and a virtual 3D model, operating in a "Skunkworks" fashion—informally and independently. This collaborative environment led to the establishment of "SkunkDesignWorks" (SDW), allowing designers to steer the project while experimenting with new tools and methods, including traditional clay modeling to ensure a human-scaled, visually captivating result.
The RS2.00 Concept aims to carry the spirit of the RS200 into a new domain: video gaming. With Ford's significant presence in gaming, the RS2.00 is designed to engage a fresh audience, educating them about Ford’s rich heritage. This version, dubbed the "Apex Hero," stays true to the essence of the original RS200, prioritizing agility and enjoyment on tight roads while remaining adaptable for various gaming scenarios and powertrains, including electrification.
The design philosophy of the RS2.00 Concept centers around the theme of "the friendly monster." Inspired by Ford's original brief for the RS200—which aimed to create a less aggressive appearance compared to competitors—the RS2.00 embraces a playful aesthetic while maintaining impressive performance capabilities. The transparent front section of the car enhances the visual connection between interior and exterior, allowing players to experience the sensation of speed intimately. This design choice also facilitates multiple visual touchpoints and creates stylistic opportunities that merge internal components with external graphics.
Inside, the cockpit draws inspiration from racing simulators, focusing on enhancing the player's experience. Flexible seating molds to occupants' body shapes, simulating varying levels of driving sensations. The steering column functions as the brain of the vehicle, housing driver preferences that can be easily transferred between cars, while a central screen on the steering wheel provides essential interface elements. Innovative features, such as an active blind spot indicator and holographic headlights with a glitching effect, further exemplify the blend of analog charm and digital innovation.
The design narrative of the RS2.00 Concept unfolds from two perspectives: an homage to the original RS200 and a bold, virtual twist that showcases digital design elements. The incorporation of pixel carbon patterns, active spoilers that respond to driving conditions, and real-time power boost indicators emphasizes the unique identity of this virtual vehicle.
Ultimately, the Ford RS2.00 Concept serves a dual purpose: to honor the enduring legacy of the RS200 while captivating a new generation of enthusiasts. It represents a daring foray into the future of the RS brand, inviting followers to witness the evolution of this story as it explores uncharted territories in automotive design and performance.
