Hybrids: Strong Impact or Not?
The biggest changes for the Ford Fusion beginning with the 2010 model year was the roll out of the next generation edition as well as offering a hybrid model. Although updating the Fusion was important to maintaining its appeal, adding the Ford Fusion Hybrid to the fleet was a feather in Ford’s cap.
Best Fuel Economy Of Any Mid-Size Sedan
The Ford Fusion Hybrid (along with the Mercury Mariner Hybrid) are game changers for the automotive industry. Up to this point, customers had a choice of either the Toyota Camry hybrid of the Chevrolet Malibu hybrid, but neither vehicle can come close to matching the Ford’s around town fuel mileage.
For 2010, the Ford Fusion Hybrid is rated 41 mpg city, 36 mpg highway. The Camry hybrid is rated 33 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, while Malibu hybrid delivers 26 mpg city and 34 mpg higway. Clearly, the mileage edge is in the Ford’s court which also beats the smaller, lighter Honda Insight hybrid for local driving fuel economy.
New Hybrid Propulsion System
Ford’s hybrid propulsion system was updated for the Fusion, a system first introduced five years earlier in the Ford Escape Hybrid, the company’s compact sport/utility vehicle. Ford engineers have made it so that the Fusion Hybrid can run on pure electric power up to 47 mph before the engine kicks in. This change is why the Fusion’s fuel economy numbers are so robust, a feat which also contributes to the car’s 700+ mile range.
Powered by a smaller, lighter nickel-metal hydride battery, producing 20% more power than Ford’s previous hybrid system, the battery’s improved chemistry allows it to be run at a higher temperature and cooled using cabin air. The car’s 2.5L I4 DURACTEC engine is paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission and employs regenerative braking which stores energy for the battery.
Rolling Out The SmartGauge
One of the biggest pluses for the Ford Fusion Hybrid is the addition of a “SmartGauge” which Ford says encourages what they call eco-driving. Basically, the system teaches drives how and when to shift, ensuring that the best driving practices are employed. This encourages the driver to improve his or her fuel mileage, a step which is environmentally responsible as well as cost efficient.
Unlike some hybrid models, the Ford Fusion isn’t styled radically. Instead, the hybrid looks the same as other Fusion models save for “road and leaf” badges on both sides and the rear, unique 17-inch, eight-spoke wheels, and a unique engine cover.
Inside, Ford uses eco-friendly seat fabric made from post-industrial 100% recycled materials and a standard 110-volt power outlet. Moreover, the trim level for the Ford Fusion Hybrid is comparable to the Fusion SEL, delivering a more comprehensive package than some stripped down hybrids.
[...] that the energy from the Fusion’s brake system is used to power the battery which makes the hybrid system work. Crombez also discussed Ford’s plans for the coming years which includes its an all [...]