Coinciding with World Asthma Day, the new Ford S-MAX and Galaxy MPVs have joined the Ford Focus and Focus C-MAX as the only cars to receive allergy-friendly approval from both the British Allergy Foundation and the German TÜV. According to the Asthma Society of Ireland, one in ten people suffer from asthma in Ireland.
To mark the event, Ford dealers nationwide will be selling wrist bands all next month to support the Asthma Society of Ireland. Ireland has the 4th highest prevalence of asthma in the world, much of it among children. As such, the Galaxy and S-MAX’s credentials in this area will be a blessing for mums and dads.
More than 100 materials and components were tested for harmful substances and allergy causing potential. Additionally, all components likely to have direct and prolonged skin contact such as the steering wheel and seat covers, floor mats and seat belts were also dermatologically tested.
Ford development engineers decided to avoid using in these vehicles materials such as latex, chrome and nickel that can provoke allergic reactions in some people. Additionally, the vehicles are equipped with a high-performance pollen filter, which was also tested by the TÜV. The filter effectively prevents pollen – a particular concern for allergy sufferers – from entering the vehicle’s interior.
The Ford S-MAX and Galaxy are available in Ireland this summer.
Brian Byrne.
