"Continental embodies the qualities that define the design direction Lincoln has chosen: elegance, simplicity, precision and an overall restraint," stated Lincoln Design Director Gerry McGovern who unveiled the new concept in Los Angeles. "Someday, a flagship like Continental could join Lincoln's showroom," he added. "But the emphasis on package efficiency, the approach to surface development and detailing, and certain Continental design cues absolutely will see production."
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| Rather than the regular forward tilting, front hinged trunklid, the Continental concept incorporates a hydraulically powered decklid that remains completely horizontal in all positions. (Photo: Ford Motor Company) |
But while pulling cues from yesteryear Lincoln hasn't forgotten that new age buyers expect evolutionary technologies. The concept's trunk, however, is more revolutionary than evolutionary, boasting a most unorthodox but highly functional cargo system. Rather than the regular forward tilting, front hinged trunklid, the Continental concept incorporates a hydraulically powered decklid that follows a parallelogram as it opens remaining completely horizontal in the process. Lincoln says this keeps the tail lamps fully visible even when the trunklid is raised, enhancing safety, while providing superior access over traditional trunks.
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| "The vehicle must be engaging for the driver, supremely comfortable for everyone, and the car should do the work for you." (Photo: Ford Motor Company) |
Adding to its convenience are three sliding storage drawers that make up to 580 L (20.5 cu ft) of stowage, plus a large cargo tray that remotely slides out of the trunk presenting a set of Zero Halliburton luggage and golf club cases - very nice.
"In an executive car, there are inviolable principles," McGovern commented. "The vehicle must be engaging for the driver, supremely comfortable for everyone, and the car should do the work for you. Above all, space must be used efficiently and ingress and egress must never be compromised."