Short stopping distances, no fading, perfect feedback to the brake pedal. Brake Assist and ESP to support the driver. Ford relies on brake technology from Continental Teves to equip its sporty top-of-the-line models of the Fiesta and Focus series. Wheel brakes, brake booster and ESP were adapted to the performance and the dynamic potential of the 150 hp Fiesta ST and the Focus ST with its 225 hp turbocharged five-cylinder engine.

As system suppliers of the brake system for the Fiesta and the Focus (all engine versions) and for numerous Mazda and Volvo models, Continental Automotive Systems was involved early on in the development work. "The aim was to give the ST models brake systems which would be a perfect complement to the temperament of the engines", says Rolf-Dieter Betzer, Customer Chief Engineer Ford Group at Continental Automotive Systems, commenting on the design work.

Software tuning for the chassis: ESP adapted to handling characteristics

To ensure particularly sporty driving characteristics to the Fiesta ST and the new Focus ST, Ford modified the springs and shock absorbers and the anti-roll bars as well. Very sporty and nimble handling is the overall result. Continental Automotive Systems then matched the ESP software to the handling characteristics of the two ST models. Handling safety enjoys highest priority, of course: if a defined limit is exceeded, the ESP intervenes gently but effectively. In both the Fiesta ST and the Focus ST, active rotational speed sensors and ESP sensors from Continental Automotive Systems supply the data for optimal TCS, ABS and ESP intervention by the efficient MK60 brake system.

Powerful stoppers: large wheel brakes

The wheel brakes also were adapted to the improved performance: FN brake calipers on the front wheels of the Fiesta ST take 25 millimeter thick brake discs with a diameter of 278 millimeters. The front brakes of the Focus ST are even larger: the compact design of the high-performance FNRG 57 calipers from Continental Automotive Systems permits the use of 25 millimeter thick ventilated brake discs with a diameter of 320 millimeters.