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Ford Motor Company – America’s largest domestic hybrid seller – is further broadening its aggressive electrification plan and second generation of hybrid technology with the new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. The vehicle is revealed today at the New York International Auto Show.

Lincoln’s first-ever hybrid is expected to deliver at least 41 miles per gallon in the city when it goes on sale this fall.

The new premium midsize sedan hybrid joins Ford Motor Company’s growing lineup of hybrids, including the Ford Fusion Hybrid – 2010 North American Car of the Year and America’s most fuel-efficient sedan – plus the Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Milan and Mariner Hybrids.

Introduction of the new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid also complements Ford’s aggressive global electrification plan. Ford is introducing five new electrified vehicles by 2013. They include the

Transit Connect Electric in late 2010, the Focus Electric in 2011, a next-generation hybrid electric vehicle and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in 2012, followed by another next-generation hybrid electric vehicle in 2013.

The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid’s projected fuel economy tops its nearest competitor – the 2010 Lexus HS 250h – by 6 mpg. It also trumps the Lexus with room for one more passenger and more standard luxury and segment-exclusive safety features.

The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid uses Ford’s second-generation hybrid technology – the 2.5-liter

Atkinson-cycle I-4 hybrid engine, named one of Ward’s 2010 “10 Best Engines.”

The system combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver optimal performance and fuel economy.

Industry-leading fuel economy comes without sacrificing power. The combined gasoline engine and electric motor provide 191 net horsepower. Plus, the pure electric mode on the Lincoln MKZ

Hybrid extends to 47 mph – compared with the Lexus HS 250h battery-only mode, which reaches just 25 mph.

More standard luxury

The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid comes standard with features and technologies that are either not offered on the Lexus HS 250h or are available only at an extra cost. They include:

• SmartGauge with EcoGuide
• Lincoln SYNC®
• 10-Way Power Passenger Seat
• Power Driver Memory Seat Settings
• Heated and Cooled Front Seats
• Genuine Wood Trim
• Reverse Sensing System
• Keyless Entry Keypad
• Easy Fuel® Capless Fuel-Filler
• Personal Safety System™
• MyKey™
• Integrated Spotter Mirrors
• Acoustic Laminated Windshield
• Bridge of Weir leather seats

Quotes

“Lincoln’s hallmarks are design, technology and comfort. Now, Lincoln also delivers the best fuel efficiency of any luxury sedan in America.”

– Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas

“Today’s luxury customers do not want to make sacrifices. Lincoln has found a way to deliver a luxury sedan with the comforts they expect, the technology they want and the environmental responsibility society demands.”

– Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s Group Vice President, Global Product Development

Nerad says the Ford Fusion Hybrid is a top pick for families because it saves money at the pump, keeps everyone entertained with the latest Ford SYNC® technology, and scores high in terms of ride and handling.

“The Ford Fusion Hybrid doesn’t scream its hybrid-ness to the multitudes,” he said. “Instead, it provides what many of us at Kelley Blue Book feel is the best hybrid experience on the road. We love the way the Fusion Hybrid rides and handles, and we applaud its innovative dash and environmental credentials.”

Nerad says customers in the market for a family car should also consider the Ford Taurus because it delivers features that American families will appreciate.

“What was once merely a competent full-size sedan has transformed into a visually striking technological tour de force,” he said. “With features uncommon in its segment, a roomy cabin, cavernous trunk, and nimbleness that believes its size, the redesigned Ford Taurus is a family car that pleases everyone, including the driver.”

Nerad says if the editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com had to pick an overall winner from the “Top 10 Family Cars for 2010,” the Ford Flex might get the nod.

“The Ford Flex leaves plain-vanilla crossovers behind with its distinctive styling, and it has all the comfort and convenience features required to be a great transcontinental family tourer while performing equally well in getting the kids to softball practice,” he said. “It drives better than some midsize sedans, offers comfortable seating for seven, and boasts a long list of available interior amenities including an array of infotainment features and even a small refrigerator.”

Mustang is powered by a lightweight, all-aluminum 3.7-liter dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) V-6 engine that uses advanced engineering to deliver its combination of power and economy. Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) adjusts the valvetrain in microseconds depending on driver inputs, further contributing to the engine’s overall efficiency.

The fact that Mustang achieves its top fuel economy rating with the convenience of an automatic transmission also marks a shift in conventional wisdom. Ford engineered a modern six-speed automatic transmission with carefully calibrated gear ratios and shift programs to maximize economy, while still delivering high-horsepower driving fun.

“Advanced powertrains like our Ti-VCT V-6 and six-speed automatic really speak to the future of Mustang,” says Barb Samardzich, Ford vice president of Global Powertrain Engineering. “We’ve proven that, using technology, Ford can deliver both power and fuel economy.”

In addition to engine improvements, upgrades to Mustang’s body, powertrain and chassis design contribute to the higher fuel economy numbers for 2011. Examples include:

• New Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system eliminates the drag of an engine-operated hydraulic power steering pump
• Six-speed manual and automatic transmissions allow lower cruising revs without sacrificing off-the-line performance
• Aerodynamic changes include improvements like a new front fascia, tire spats on the rear wheels, modified underbody shields, a taller air dam and an added rear decklid seal

The new 2011 Mustang already has more than 11,000 orders. Half of all the nationwide orders are for the car’s fuel-efficient 3.7-liter V-6 engine. The 2011 Mustangs are also being equipped with record levels of technology, giving customers the option of choosing navigation, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and rearview cameras.

The new 2011 Mustang goes on sale this spring and will be built at the AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich

"We're talking about ... significant exterior improvements, an all-new interior, a vehicle that is quieter, and a vehicle that will be more fun to drive," Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president of global product development, said last week.

Customers are to be able to pick from three new engines -- including a four-cylinder, 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine -- when it goes on sale this summer.

Ford introduced six-cylinder EcoBoost engines on several models last year, but the four-cylinder EcoBoost makes its debut in the Edge.

EcoBoost combines direct-injection technology and turbocharging to improve fuel economy without sacrificing power.

In addition to the small EcoBoost engine, Ford is offering a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 285 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque on the Edge. For the Edge Sport, Ford is offering a 3.7-liter V6 engine with 305 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque.

The Edge also will be the first vehicle to feature Ford's new MyFord Touch technology, which replaces traditional knobs and switches with a five-way controller on the steering wheel as well as a touch screen.

MyFord manages all climate, navigation, entertainment and communication functions.

In the past, what the automotive industry refers to as mid-cycle freshening typically resulted in minor styling changes. But last year, when Ford updated its Fusion midsize car, critics gushed about the changes, U.S. sales increased 22% and the vehicle won several major awards.

Explorer to have better fuel economy, inflatable seat belts

The new Explorer will deliver at least 25 percent better fuel economy than the current model. The vehicle will feature unibody construction, Ford’s EcoBoost engine technology, a six-speed transmission and lightweight materials. Ford will provide full details about the new Explorer later this year.

In addition, the next-generation Explorer will debut the auto industry’s first-ever production inflatable seat belts, designed to provide additional protection for rear-seat occupants – often children and older passengers who can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries. The inflatable rear seat belts spread crash forces over five times more area of the body than conventional seat belts, which helps to reduce pressure on the chest and to control head and neck motion for rear-seat passengers. Ford eventually plans to offer inflatable seat belt technology on other vehicles globally.

An economic infusion

In planning for the company’s future manufacturing presence in the state, Ford worked closely with Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn, who led an effort in passing legislation that allows Ford to participate in Illinois’ Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) program, which provides tax incentives to businesses that commit to new investments and create or retain jobs in the state. This legislation allows Ford to participate in the EDGE program through payroll tax credits rather than corporate income taxes.

Ford’s investment of $400 million in Chicago-area manufacturing facilities and Explorer’s fuel economy improvement of at least 25 percent is also supported by Ford’s green partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy. Chicago Assembly Plant is one of 11 Ford facilities in the U.S. participating in the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Incentives Program initiated by Congress and implemented by the Obama administration. The program is helping to develop advanced technology vehicles and strengthen American manufacturing across the country. Ford, Nissan, Tesla, Fisker and Tenneco are all participants in this initiative.

The current Explorer and Explorer Sport Trac models are built at the company’s Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky. Shifting production of the next-generation Explorer to Chicago Assembly paves the way for Louisville Assembly to undergo transformation to a flexible, fuel-efficient small car plant from a truck-based SUV plant. Ford will begin producing new vehicles at Louisville Assembly based on its global C-car platform in 2011. The specific models will be named at a later date.

The Chicago Assembly Plant, opened in 1924, currently has approximately 1,200 employees working on one shift. Ford’s Chicago Stamping Plant, which opened in 1956, has approximately 700 employees on two shifts. Opened in 1955, Louisville Assembly Plant has approximately 1,000 employees operating on one shift.

Quotes

“The new Explorer will redefine the SUV for the modern era – retaining the capability customers want while delivering superb fuel efficiency, comfort and convenience. This investment underscores Ford’s commitment to building world-class, fuel-efficient vehicles in America and creating new jobs that will contribute to our nation’s economic recovery.”

– Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas

“Our Chicago Assembly Plant – with its excellent work force, lean and flexible manufacturing processes, and proud history of making great Ford vehicles – is the ideal choice for building the new Explorer. The plant successfully has launched two new vehicles in the past two years and our Chicago employees consistently deliver with an eye on quality, efficiency and safety.”

– Jim Tetreault, Ford Vice President, North America Manufacturing

“Governor Quinn immediately understood the importance of helping Ford by proposing and passing legislation that provides us with an alternative way to claim and secure these important tax credits. We are grateful for his support of Ford and auto manufacturing in Illinois, and want to thank him for his leadership.”

– Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas

“The production of the new Ford Explorer will create 1,200 new jobs here in Illinois. The Economic Development for a Growing Economy tax credit, which I put the full weight of my administration behind and signed into law in December, has provided much needed relief to our state’s ailing automotive industry and the necessary incentives for one of our nation’s leading car companies to stay in the Land of Lincoln.”

– Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn

“Ford has been a major presence in our city since 1924 when it opened this plant to make the Model T. The company has demonstrated its commitment to Chicago by spending millions of dollars to modernize the facility in recent years, and I want to thank the company for that commitment and for its faith in Chicago and its residents.”

– Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley

Last week the Fusion Hybrid won the 2010 North American Car of the Year. Karl Brauer, Editor in Chief of Edmunds.com, was one of the 49 journalists on the jury. Recognizing the significance of the vehicle in the marketplace, Brauer recently helped to select it for inclusion in the Edmunds.com long-term test fleet; it is being reported on at http://blogs.insideline.com/roadtests/Vehicles/2010-ford-fusion-hybrid/

“Coming in second in our survey, the Toyota Prius benefited from its combination of incredible fuel mileage, a spacious cabin and a versatile hatchback body style. The Honda Insight finished a commendable third place; that’s rather impressive considering that this practical four-door hatchback was the least expensive candidate on the ballot,” noted Brauer.

The ranking of hybrid cars among Edmunds.com visitors is:
Vehicle and Ranking Edmunds.com True Market Value® price*

1. Ford Fusion Hybrid $ 27,625
2. Toyota Prius $ 22,400
3. Honda Insight $ 19,800
4. Lexus HS 250h $ 34,200
5. Toyota Highlander Hybrid $ 34,700
6. Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid $ 25,555
7. Honda Civic Hybrid $ 23,650
8. Toyota Camry Hybrid $ 26,150
9. Saturn VUE Hybrid $ 28,160
10. Ford Escape Hybrid $ 29,785

(*Edmunds.com True Market Value® prices are the national average prices recently paid nationwide, and do not include customer cash incentives. For customized pricing on vehicles of interest, please check http://www.edmunds.com/tmv/index.html.)

To see the complete list and find out more about the winning vehicles, see Consumers' Favorites: Best Hybrid at Edmunds.com.

Every month Edmunds.com invites consumers to vote on their favorite vehicles in a different category, then publishes the results so that car shoppers can gauge the popularity of the models they are considering. For recommendations and buying advice, please check the Edmunds.com Buying Guides at http://www.edmunds.com/buyingguide/2010/index.html.

Ford Wins Three Prestigious Vehicle Awards

This year Ford received three "10 Best" Popular Mechanics Auto Excellence Awards, more than any other manufacturer!!

2011 Ford Fiesta - Best Fuel Efficiency 2011 Ford Mustang - Best Performance 2011 Ford Super Duty F-250 - Workhorse

“With its combination of style, performance and uncompromising luxury, the Lincoln MKX has brought new customers into the Lincoln showroom in a way that very few products have before,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “Lincoln customers tell us they care most about style and technology, and the new Lincoln MKX meets these needs perfectly. The new MyLincoln Touch technology will change the way customers interact with their vehicles while its new design language gives the vehicle a distinctive and stylish silhouette we know customers will love.”

2011 Lincoln MKX brimming with standard and class-exclusive technologies. Standard MyLincoln Touch and remote start lead the list of features or technologies that are new for the 2011 Lincoln MKX, including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support allows the driver to set the vehicle’s speed and maintain it without using the accelerator pedal, and warns the driver of a potential collision risk. It also helps reduce speed and automatically pre-charges brakes and engages an electronic brake assist system to help drivers stop more quickly when the system detects a collision is imminent.
• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert is a feature that helps detect vehicles in blind spots during normal driving and traffic approaching from the sides when reversing out of parking spots.
• MyKey™ is designed to allow parents to encourage teenagers to drive safely and more fuel efficiently, and increase safety belt usage. The standard MyKey feature allows owners to designate keys that can limit the vehicle’s top speed and audio volume.
• Easy Fuel® Capless Fuel-Filler System is a standard Ford-exclusive feature that uses an integrated spring-loaded flapper door to eliminate the need for a fuel tank screw cap.

The 2011 Lincoln MKX has eight class-exclusive features: MyLincoln Touch, Lincoln SYNC, Easy Fuel, SecuriCode™ keyless entry, Blind Spot Mirrors, MyKey, Cross Traffic Alert and AdvanceTrac® with RSC (Roll Stability Control™).

Power for the 2011 Lincoln MKX is supplied by the 3.7-liter Duratec V-6, which employs advanced technology and clever control strategies, such as Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) to increase horsepower and torque without compromising fuel economy.

Customers of the 2011 Lincoln MKX will enjoy a luxury crossover that has best-in-class power and torque versus all V-6 competitors with unsurpassed highway fuel economy of 25 mpg – all on regular fuel. Horsepower has been increased to 305 – a 15-percent increase compared with the outgoing product – while torque is up to 280 ft.-lbs., marking a 12-percent improvement.

The 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 is mated to a six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission, which gives customers the option of a fun-to-shift manual experience.

“Everything about the 2011 Lincoln MKX is vibrant and luxurious,” said Elaine Bannon, chief engineer. “Our MyLincoln Touch system will draw people in, helping them discover that the new Lincoln MKX delivers a total driving experience not found anywhere else.”

The 2010 North American Truck of the Year recognizes the most outstanding vehicle of the year based on many factors, including innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and value. To be eligible, vehicles must be all-new or substantially changed from the previous model. The jury is comprised of 50 automotive journalists in Canada and the United States, representing newspapers, magazines, web sites, television and radio shows.

This is the 17th year of the award, and the 2010 Ford Transit Connect was selected above nine other competitors. Ford has a bit of experience winning this award. Most recently, the F-150 was the 2009 North American Truck of the Year. A Ford vehicle has taken home the honors five times; more than any other brand.

The 2010 Ford Transit Connect is a global Ford product that can be adapted to multiple commercial business applications. It has more than double the cargo-carrying space of the Chevrolet HHR Panel, and it offers users a cargo payload of up to 1,600 pounds, which means that it can carry a larger payload than the full-size Dodge Ram 1500 standard-cab short-box pickup truck.

With 135 cubic feet of Transit Connect cargo volume, no other vehicle in the American market can deliver this combination of capacity and fuel economy.

Transit Connect is powered by a 2.0-liter I-4 engine with a four-speed automatic overdrive transmission. The vehicle offers double the fuel economy of full-size vans with a rating of 22 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.

More than 600,000 Ford Transit Connects have been sold since 2003, to customers in 58 countries and on four continents.

The 2010 Fusion and Fusion Hybrid are the most fuel-efficient sedans in America. The new models offer more power, class-exclusive technologies – such as BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross Traffic Alert and Ford SYNC® – and more total passenger and luggage capacity than the Toyota Camry.

The Ford Fusion Hybrid was introduced as an all-new model for 2010. The Ford Hybrid team has developed a powertrain system that combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver the optimal experience for the customer in terms of driving performance and fuel economy. Additionally, the propulsion system for the Ford Fusion Hybrid transitions between gas and electric power and back more efficiently and seamlessly.

The overall system upgrade allows the Ford Fusion Hybrid to operate longer at higher speeds in electric mode. The hybrid vehicles can operate up to 47 mph in pure electric mode, approximately twice as fast as some competitors. Plus, the city driving range on a single tank of gas is expected to be more than 700 miles.

The Fusion Hybrid also offers drivers a way to be more connected to the hybrid driving experience, thanks to Ford’s SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster execution that helps coach drivers on how to optimize performance of their hybrid.

SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide features two high-resolution, full-color liquid crystal display (LCD) screens on either side of the analog speedometer that can be configured to show different levels of information, including fuel and battery power levels, and average and instant miles per gallon.

EcoGuide uses a multilayered approach to coach the driver to maximum fuel efficiency.

A tutorial mode built into the display helps the driver learn about the instrument cluster and the hybrid in a whimsical way that does not overpower. Technical enthusiasts will love the detailed gauges that will help them learn to become more efficient in their driving. Everyday drivers will love another new feature in this same gauge cluster.

Called “Efficiency Leaves,” the system “grows” leaves and vines on-screen to reward customers for efficient driving.

Instead, the Fusion sits demurely in the driveway, offering no commentary on the neighbors’ lack of environmental concern. Yet for a base price of $27,270 (right around the new-car average of $25,500), customers can buy a fuel-efficient family sedan that easily carries five normal-sized people in comfort. It also has sufficient trunk space for their luggage, a compliant suspension and enough high-tech gizmos and widgets to evoke a smile from even the most indifferent automotive appliance owner.

Motor Trend magazine named the model its Car of the Year for 2010 and it is one of three finalists for the North American Car of the Year award to be announced Monday. (Full disclosure: I am a member of the panel that votes on the latter award.)

The EPA says the Fusion Hybrid gets 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg highway. In a week of mixed suburban driving, the test model scored 38 mpg. The Prius gets 50 mpg on the EPA’s city test, but that extra 9 mpg is not worth the tradeoffs in space, ride and handling for many customers.

My gas mileage was achieved in normal driving, with no babying it to boost efficiency. But the Fusion does have a novel dashboard video display that shows virtual vines which can, if the car is driven gently, sprout leaves to produce a nice, healthy-looking dashboard garden.

Share your stories

Has the recession forced you to go into business for yourself because you weren’t able to find a job in your field? Has that been a good thing or a bad thing? Selected responses may be used in an upcoming msnbc.com story.

Failure to drive in a way that cultivated this garden sparked howls of outrage from the back seat, where my kids complained I was killing the leaves as they disappeared. So while it would be easy to dismiss the efficiency display as a silly gimmick, it is a hard-to-ignore reminder that with just a bit lighter pressure on the pedal, the Fusion Hybrid can get spectacularly good mileage. Hypermile fanatics do even better, but there are few regular drivers who are interested in driving as if the fuel in the tank is their last.

Ford previously launched a hybrid version of its Escape SUV, but it was more primitive than the Fusion. In addition its size and weight conspired against it, so the Escape only gets about 25 mpg in everyday mixed driving, hardly enough to bother buying a hybrid.

The Fusion features Ford’s second-generation hybrid system, a design which, like the one in the Escape, is technically similar to that used by Toyota. The Fusion Hybrid goes Toyota one better with its ability to drive on electric-only power at speeds as high as 47 mph. That electric power ultimately comes from gasoline in hybrid electric cars, but it is still fun to know that you can drive on electric-only power for longer periods and higher speeds, keeping the gas engine shut off. The Prius automatically starts its gas engine at 25 mph.

Because of the conceptual similarities the companies recognized the potential for inadvertent infringement of one another’s patents, so they wisely signed a cross-licensing agreement to avoid future legal headaches. It was a good plan but unfortunately was portrayed by some as a case of Ford buying Toyota’s technology. Ford’s design is entirely its own. The cross-licensing agreement was just an immunization against a plague of lawyers.

Ford’s less-heralded but skilled engineers also achieved a smooth driveability as the car switches modes between gas and electric when driving and between regenerating electricity and using regular hydraulic brakes when stopping. It is still possible to detect some of the mode changes, especially as the car regenerates power when slowing, but Ford’s balance of these modes is the best execution in a constantly improving science.

Ford has improved the whole Fusion model line for 2010. The original Fusion was a handsome car with strong specifications that promised to deliver an experience that would place the car ahead of the likes of Honda’s Accord. Alas, some of the details were amiss in that first iteration. It was a good, but not great, car.

For 2010, Ford has made the Fusion great. They tweaked the steering to make the car respond to input more faithfully. They upgraded the interior, with soft surfaces on the dashboard replacing hard plastic. They freshened the exterior styling to keep the car up-to-date in appearance. The result is a car that beats Accord and Camry across the whole model line. But the hybrid is the gem in Fusion’s crown and serves notice that Ford and the rest of the domestic industry should not be overlooked as relics of the industrial age.

Listeners of the April 28, 2009 Road show will be encouraged to stop by Donley Ford Lincoln Mercury of Mt. Vernon until April 30th, to continue the giving after the Road Show is over. To donate the $100 the customer needs to mention the Curtis and Olivia Road Show and the Hospice of Knox County.

About Hospice of Knox County

Hospice of Knox County is a non-profit organization built by those within our community. Our roots are in volunteerism, which remain a vital part of the heart of Hospice. Hospice of Knox County networks with other area agencies and organizations with the sole purpose of providing the highest quality care and supportive services to patients and their loved ones. We take a team approach, allowing our patients and loved ones to be linked with resources in the community, while Hospice of Knox County serves as an advocate on behalf of those individuals affected by end-of-life care issues.

For information on Hospice of Knox County, go to http://hospiceofknox.org/.

About Donley Ford Lincoln Mercury of Mt. Vernon

Donley Ford Lincoln Mercury of Mt. Vernon is one of five dealerships of Donley Auto Group in the Heart of Ohio, with new Ford Lincoln Mercury vehicles and a huge inventory of pre-owned vehicles. Donley Ford Lincoln Mercury of Mt. Vernon is a full service dealership also providing extended warranty plans, service, parts, and wholesales parts.

For information on Donley Ford Lincoln Mercury of Mt. Vernon vehicle inventory, go to www.donleyford.com/mtvernon.html.

“This recognition says strong things about Ford as a hybrid manufacturer,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book and kbb.com. “What we really like about both the Fusion and Escape Hybrids is that they do everything great hybrids should do – in terms of providing excellent fuel economy – but at the same time, they drive like conventional vehicles.”

Nerad says fuel economy was just one of the factors editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com took into consideration when selecting this year’s list of “Top 10 Green Cars.”

“We go beyond fuel economy and powertrain, and we look at things that people generally look at when buying any car, such as comfort, convenience, safety and value for the money,” he said.

Ford Hybrid Marketing Manager David Finnegan says winning two of the 10 spots on kbb.com’s “Top 10 Green Cars” list for 2009 demonstrates Ford’s versatility as a hybrid manufacturer.

“We are continuing to expand our portfolio to offer consumers a wider range of alternatives,” said Finnegan. “The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid provides 41 mpg in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway*, making it North America’s most fuel-efficient midsize sedan.”

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid

Nerad says the Ford Fusion is “getting better with age.”

“We’ve always been fans of the Fusion platform, and while this isn’t a completely new vehicle, it has been more extensively redone than most cars are in mid-cycle, which has left it looking great both inside and out,” he said. “But we’re even bigger believers in the Fusion after seeing and driving the new hybrid version.”

Nerad says he is particularly impressed with the Fusion Hybrid because it drives like a conventional vehicle while still delivering outstanding fuel economy.

“We love the way it drives, and the Fusion Hybrid handily out-economizes both the Toyota Camry (EPA estimated 33 mpg city/34 mpg hwy) and the Chevy Malibu (EPA estimated 26 mpg city/34 mpg hwy),” he said.

Another factor that distinguishes the Fusion Hybrid from other hybrid vehicles is SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster execution that helps coach drivers on how to optimize the performance of their hybrid.

“It brings driver engagement to a whole new level by providing drivers with information that helps them achieve the greatest possible fuel economy,” said Finnegan. “The gauges can be customized to show various status elements, including the charge level of the battery or how efficiently you’re consuming fuel.”

In addition to smart technology, the 2010 Fusion Hybrid offers a variety of advanced safety features. The vehicle received a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and delivers available segment-exclusive safety and driver-aid technologies, such as Ford SYNC® with 911 Assist™ and Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert.

Further enhancing its “green” sheen, the Fusion Hybrid features sustainable interior materials including seats that are made from eco-friendly fabric and filled with soy-based seat foam.

2009 Ford Escape Hybrid

The 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid earned a spot on kbb.com’s inaugural “Top 10 Green Cars” list last year. This year marks the brand’s second consecutive win.

“We think the Escape Hybrid is a terrific value on the hybrid scene,” Nerad said. “We like its footprint and its compact size. It’s easy to drive around town and yet comfortable for long highway trips. We’re just fans of the vehicle all the way around.”

Nerad singled out the Escape Hybrid’s braking system as an example of why he thinks the vehicle is a winner.

“A lot of times with regenerative braking, there is an odd feeling to the brakes when the vehicle transitions from electric to gas, and that is not present in the Escape at all,” he said. “It feels terrific as you’re braking – just like a conventional car.”

The Escape Hybrid provides 34 mpg in city driving* and – like the Fusion Hybrid – features comfort-designed seats with soy-based foam that substitutes for petroleum-based products, and seat fabrics are made from post-industrial 100 percent recycled materials.

“Customers can be environmentally responsible and still have a vehicle that provides the utility of an SUV and is fun to drive,” said Finnegan.

Source: http://www.thefordstory.com/green/2010-fusion-hybrid-and-escape-hybrid-kbb/

The new 3.7-liter V6 is projected to deliver 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway in 4x2 configuration. The new 5.0-liter V8 is projected to deliver 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway in 4x2 configuration. No manufacturer offers better fuel economy numbers in these respective segments.

“Seventy percent of F-150 customers said better fuel economy is what they’d like improved most in their truck,” said Doug Scott, Truck Group marketing manager. “The 2011 Ford F-150 does exactly that with best-in-class fuel economy, best-in-class capability and power, and more powertrain choices to suit their different needs.”

The new V6 and V8 make up half of an all-new powertrain lineup for the 2011 Ford F-150, part of the most extensive engine makeover in the 62-year history of F-Series. Also new for the 2011-Model Year Ford F150 are the 6.2-liter V8 and 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ truck engine. The EcoBoost will be available in early 2011. Trucks with the 3.7-liter V6, 5.0-liter V8 and 6.2-liter V8 will arrive in dealer showrooms later this year.

Each engine is mated to a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission. Ford is the only manufacturer to equip its entire full-size pickup lineup with six-speed gearboxes as standard.

This versatile new powertrain lineup enables F-150 customers to choose the engine that best suits their needs. Several other Improvements help Increase Fuel Economy The extensive work to maximize the efficiency of each engine is complemented by additional improvements to the transmission and other areas of the new 2011-Model Year Ford F-150.

The tried-and-true 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission has been upgraded to bring available customer conveniences such as SelectShift capability with progressive range select and manual mode to the F-150 for the first time.

The transmission has been optimized for each new engine. The transmission matched to the 3.7-liter engine, for example, has fewer clutch plates compared with the other F-150 engines.

A one-way clutch, which allows for smoother 1-2 and 2-1 shifts, faster downshifts and improved fuel economy, has been added. The gear ratios, span and shift schedule have been optimized for better off-the-line performance and improved fuel economy. The double-overdrive gear also provides better fuel economy.

Another fuel saver is the addition of class-exclusive electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) to the 3.7-liter V6, 5.0-liter V8 and 3.5-liter EcoBoost powertrains. The EPAS system replaces a conventional hydraulic system, which runs continuously off the engine, with a system that draws power only when needed. Ford is the first manufacturer to widely offer EPAS on full-size pickup trucks. EPAS contributes about a 4 percent fuel-economy benefit compared with conventional hydraulic systems.

“Our new engine lineup allows greater flexibility for customers to select the powertrain choice that best suits their needs,” said Samardzich. “And each engine delivers outstanding power, capability and fuel economy.”

3.7-liter four-valve Ti-VCT V6 The 3.7-liter will be the most powerful, capable and fuel-efficient base V6 of any truck in its class.

Key attributes include: Projected best-in-class 23 mpg highway (4x2 configuration), pending final EPA certification. Also delivers 16 mpg city.

Best-in-class 302 horsepower at 6,500 rpm

Unsurpassed 278 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm

Best-in-class 6,100 pounds maximum trailer tow

Ti-VCT (twin independent variable camshaft timing) creates precise, variable timing control of both the intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize power, performance and fuel economy.

E85 flex fuel capability

Piston-cooling jets, which squirt oil on the underside of the pistons to keep the piston crowns cool under extreme operating conditions.

Forged-steel crankshaft for improved durability.

Built at the Cleveland Engine Plant.

5.0-liter four-valve DOHC Ti-VCT V8 The 5.0-liter V8 in the 2011-Model Year Ford F-150 offers many class bests compared with comparable base V8s, including:

Projected best-in-class 21 mpg highway (4x2 configuration), pending final EPA certification.

Best-in-class 360 horsepower at 5,500 rpm

Best-in-class 380 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,250 rpm

Best-in-class 10,000 pounds maximum trailer tow

New strengthened block and new cylinder head optimized for performance and enhanced cooling.

Unique intake camshafts, combined with Ti-VCT, composite intake manifold and optimized compression ratio for improved low-speed torque and towing capability.

Forged-steel crank and all-new oil cooler enhance durability.

Piston-cooling jets, which squirt oil on the underside of the pistons to keep the piston crowns cool under extreme operating conditions.

E85 flex fuel capability.

Built at the Essex Engine Plant in Windsor, Ontario.

6.2-liter two-valve SOHC V8 The 6.2-liter V8 is a premium engine offering on the 2011-Model Year Ford F-150. It is now standard on F-150 SVT Raptor, with expanded offering on other specialty applications.

Its attributes include: Best-in-class 411 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 434 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm vs. all competitors Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. all competitors Projected 12 mpg city, 17 mpg highway (4x2 configuration), pending final EPA certification

Durability of race-proven components and technology showcased in November 2008 when a 6.2-liter Raptor R not only survived the grueling Baja 1000, it earned a podium finish. The same engine then completed every mile of the 2009 Best in the Desert series.

Utilizes a large bore and shorter stroke. This approach to creating power has its roots in storied Ford racing engines. The large bore allows for larger intake and exhaust valves for improved engine airflow and the short stroke allows higher engine speed for increased horsepower.

Because of the large bore size, two spark plugs per cylinder are used to more efficiently burn the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber, enabling better fuel economy and increased engine torque. The twin plugs also help maintain a smooth, stable idle.

Built at the Romeo (Michigan) Engine Plant.

3.5-liter Ti-VCT EcoBoost A premium powertrain offering available after launch, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost has more torque than any competitors’ V8 with the fuel economy of a smaller-displacement engine. This EcoBoost engine will establish a new benchmark for its combination of performance capability and fuel efficiency.

Its attributes include: 365 horsepower at 5,000 rpm on regular fuel Best-in-class 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm on regular fuel Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. all competitors Best-in-class 3,060 pounds payload vs. all competitors Up to 90 percent of peak torque available from 1,700 rpm to 5,000 rpm New benchmark for combination of performance capability and fuel efficiency. Ti-VCT creates precise, variable timing control of both the intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize power, performance and fuel economy. Intake and exhaust camshafts optimized for improved fuel economy and performance. Cast exhaust manifolds for heavy-duty operation and durability. Improved manifold and cylinder heads for improved performance. Direct-acting mechanical bucket (DAMB) valvetrain with polished buckets to reduce friction and improve fuel economy.

Built at the Cleveland Engine Plant.

The numbers topped the Toyota Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway. The Fusion Hybrid even beat the fuel economy of the much-smaller Honda Civic hybrid by 1 mpg city.

That was the goal, said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “The Ford team set the bar high – to develop America’s most fuel-efficient midsize sedan – and that’s what they delivered,” said Kuzak.

Hitting showrooms this month, the Fusion Hybrid is the result of hard work and long hours – and has been noticed by the automotive press.

"OK, let's just get it out there: The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid is the best gasoline-electric hybrid yet," raved USA TODAY.

How Team Fusion did it

Many of the engineers who spent the past three years on the project also had helped develop either the original Fusion or the Ford Escape Hybrid. The team developed the new car and its new powerplant in-house, based on what they had learned.

“The Fusion is our second-generation hybrid system,” said Gil Portalatin, Ford hybrid applications manager. He went on to explain that this is an American-developed system that the team evolved and brought to the point where they got some fantastic fuel economy. The team is very proud of this product.

The new system, which does not share parts or technology with any competitor, enables this Fusion to travel more than 700 miles on a single tank of gas in city driving.

It also enables Ford’s latest hybrid, and its cousin, the Mercury Milan Hybrid, to travel up to 47 miles per hour in pure electric mode – faster than the Camry and every other hybrid currently on the road.

“The Fusion Hybrid’s ability to run at a much higher speed in electric mode allows drivers to maximize fuel efficiently in many driving situations,” said Praveen Cherian, the Fusion Hybrid program team leader. “For example, this would allow drivers to travel near their home or work in all-electric mode.”

In addition, the system’s advanced intake variable-cam timing (iVCT) allows the Fusion and Milan hybrids to smoothly transition between the gasoline engine and the battery-powered electric motor, and vice versa.

“Improved driveability is one of the key breakthroughs on the Fusion Hybrid,” said Cherian. The refinements allow the vehicle “to deliver the optimal customer experience in fuel economy and driving dynamics.”

The Fusion Hybrid uses a smaller, lighter, nickel-metal hydride battery located in the trunk. The new battery produces 20-percent more power than Ford’s previous hybrid system.

The improved chemistry in the new battery pack allows it to be run at a higher temperature, while being cooled with air from the car’s interior rather than a small auxiliary air-conditioning system as on other hybrids. This also saves weight.

“We worked with our supplier, so now we’ve got a smaller, lighter, and more heat-resistant battery and that’s just the best of all worlds,” said Portalatin.

The hybrid’s leading fuel economy also benefitted from the better aerodynamics achieved on the standard gas-engine 2010 Fusion.

In working to smooth the airflow over, under and around the car, designers and engineers developed the all-new front and rear fascias, small spoilers mounted ahead of the front and rear wheels, a new underbody engine shield and an optimized cooling airflow into the engine compartment. On the hybrid, even the fog lamps were mounted differently to cut down on wind drag.

The hybrid’s 17-inch aluminum wheels were also designed to reduce weight and aid aerodynamics while still delivering top performance. With less open space between the spokes, they were designed to improve airflow over and around the wheels.

“When we saw that 40 mpg was in reach, we did everything we could to get there,” said Portalatin.

* Midsize class per R.L. Polk & Co.

Source: http://www.thefordstory.com/green/the-2010-ford-fusion-hybrid/