Ford Of Britain 100: Image Of The Week - 5/52

BRENTWOOD, UNITED KINGDOM – February 2, 2011: To celebrate the centenary of Ford of Britain in 2011 the company is exploring its photo archive to reveal rarely seen images.

Ford's British roots will be illustrated each week by a specially selected picture.

UK life expectancy has nearly doubled in the last 100 years, and the motor industry has had to stay ahead of the game. This week's image shows Ford's Third Age Suit, used by engineers to replicate physical constraints associated with growing older. The suit can simulate mobility issues, such as those caused by arthritis; eyesight conditions, thanks to specially designed glasses; and reduced tactile sensitivity, sometimes experienced due to age and/or skin conditions. By experiencing these limitations themselves, Ford's engineers can help ensure Ford vehicles are accessible and easily useable.