Ford got an early holiday gift Tuesday morning, and it’s a bit better than even the company was hoping for.
The following text from www.autoweek.com
The new Fusion and the new Mercury Milan hybrids were certified by the EPA at 41 mpg in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway. That beats the Toyota Camry hybrid by eight mpg in the city and two on the highway. Ford also says it betters the Honda Civic hybrid by one mile in city driving.
Ford made the announcement after finishing testing at its lab in Allen Park, Mich., this week. A spokesman confirmed that the Milan hybrid received the same rating from the EPA.
The new Ford hybrids can travel up to 700 miles on a single tank of gasoline and can go as fast as 47 mph in pure electric mode.
The car has a smaller, lighter nickel-metal-hydride battery, which makes 20 percent more power than Ford’s previous setup. The engine is a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder unit that makes about 155 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque. It also recovers considerable energy through regenerative braking.
Inside, the cars use an innovative instrument cluster, called SmartGauge with EcoGuide, to give drivers more details about fuel economy.
Prices are expected to be about $3,200 more for a Fusion or Milan hybrid compared with the conventional models.
See the story at www.autoweek.com
Dont worry the need for these will be apparent soon. You see if you think cheap fuel is here to stay you are seriously misinformed. Kudos to Ford…they are doing the right thing.
By qtrhors. April 2nd, 2009 at 9:32 amNo one would buy it because none of the major automakers are trying. If Ford launched diesels and put a solid effort behind it, it will take off, especially if Ford has the government enact a tax break. And forget the Fiesta, try 75 mpg w/ the VW Polo.
By bassman97. December 28th, 2008 at 4:54 pmyes but no one (read the general populus in the states) would buy it. Thats why they dont bring the 60mpg feista here
By 71hotrodpinto. December 27th, 2008 at 3:56 pmOnly if Ford went diesel instead. Those mileage figures can be bested w/ a diesel and w/o a hybrid system.
By bassman97. December 27th, 2008 at 8:14 amthese cars atre cool, but wait til you see the new sho taurus, with the new twin turbo set-up.
By day walker. December 24th, 2008 at 11:08 amits about time. Make it priced competitively with a Prius and watch them sell!
By BWill. December 24th, 2008 at 9:20 amForgot to add that i would be buying one if i could! Sweet looking car! Beats the hell out of a dam prius looks and utility wise.
By 71hotrodpinto. December 23rd, 2008 at 11:22 pmAlright you pain in the …. greeneys. Ford NOT just about Trucks anymore. And Imports better be worried……. Hi TOYOTA!!!!
By 71hotrodpinto. December 23rd, 2008 at 4:41 pm