If Ford has a more important vehicle launch in 2011 than that of the 2012 Focus, we certainly don't know about it. The automaker is well-aware of the importance of the Focus, and to ensure a flawless launch, the company is going all-out.

Automotive News reports that Ford is testing the first batch of 2012 Focus models for 30 miles around the company's Dearborn, MI test track before shipping them to dealers. AN quotes anonymous sources who say dealers asked if there was a problem during the launch that has lead to this extraordinary measure, but Ford insists that the very thorough checks are merely to ensure spot-on quality. And since the company is launching a vehicle capable of up to 40 miles per gallon at a time when gas prices are hitting $4 per gallon around the country, this is an important launch to nail.

Ford spokesperson Said Deep told AN that only the first batch of Focus models were driven for 30 miles, adding that vehicles being produced now are only given a second look at the plant. That first batch of Foci were taken back to the plant for testing after the 30 mile road test. Ford builds the Focus at the Wayne Assembly Plant, which resides only a few miles away from the automaker's Dearborn test track.


Gallery: 2012 Ford Focus: First Drive



Photos copyright (C)2011 Zach Bowman / AOL



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