From the outside, the design is very Ford-like, while at the same time it is completely unusual. The front grille and lamp assembly really carries the same interest of the year model Ford Explorers and F-150s, although the size seems to remind us of the Ford Escape.
Likewise, the small-bed and eco-friendly mini-truck vibe that got rid of the Model U can be seen a bit in today’s Maverick, though it doesn’t have the bonus of hydrogen power.
The interior looks like a cross between a doctor’s office from 1975, and an airplane lounge, but that can be forgiven since it was brand new 20 years ago. Curved rear doors and a longer interior would have made it a better cruiser, not unlike the Honda Element.
However, it can be very difficult in a large market. Additionally, hydrogen is still in its infancy 20 years later, so it’s unlikely that Ford could have encouraged any major adoption. Ford tried again in 2007 with the Airstream Concept, although it met with similar problems with the Model U.
That said, it looks like Ford hasn’t completely abandoned technology. Earlier this year, Ford launched a research project on hydrogen fuel cell technology through hydrogen-powered vehicles in the United Kingdom.