FF Developments
FF (Ferguson Formula) Developments Limited (FFD) was a British company founded by Major A.P.R. (Tony) Rolt to exploit 4WD technology, Rolt had worked as Technical Director at Harry Ferguson Research for many years.[1]
According to Ward's Auto World[2] the influence that FFD had on all wheel drive (AWD) development transcended its size.
History
The company was founded in Coventry in 1971 by Tony Rolt.[1] In 1981 Rolt's son, Stuart, joined the company as Marketing Director, becoming Chief Executive in 1986.[3]
In 1990 the company opened an engineering centre in Detroit.[3]
Following its sale to the automotive consultancy group Ricardo in 1994, the company was renamed FFD-Ricardo. Stuart Rolt remained the CEO until 1996.[3]
Projects
- Jaguar - FFD designed and developed the AWD system used on the Jaguar XJ220 220 mph supercar prototype which was shown for the first time at the 1988 British International Motor Show.
- General Motors - FFD designed and developed the AWD system used on the 1990 Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari van.
- McLaren Cars - FFD manufactured the transmission system for the McLaren F1 supercar.[3]
Notes
- "Decembers Past 2001: 30 Years ago: December 1971". Classic Driver. Archived from the original on 2012-03-14.
- "No giant here - FF Developments Ltd - company profile". Ward's Auto World. Dec 1989.
- "Chairman's profile: Stuart Rolt". the British Racing Drivers' Club.
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