The Ford AU Falcon and Fairmont are the first of the sixth generation series of the Ford Falcon, a full-size car produced by Ford Australia. Replacing the EL Falcon, the last of the fifth generation Falcons, the AU series launch in September 1998, being replaced in September 2002 by the BA range of Fords. The AU sported a radically different design that was dubbed "New Edge", to attract the younger generation with its "out there" looks. Other changes included a kg (lb) reduction in weight for the base car, 17.5 per cent stiffer bodyshell, and an eight per cent improvement in fuel consumption.