American automakers have not seen success with their hybrid products - or at least not to the extent that their Japanese counterparts have experienced. But that hasn’t stopped Ford from producing attractive hybrid options, including the new 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid. Ford also produces the Escape Hybrid, which is the most fuel efficient SUV available.
While Ford offers hybrids that are competitive, albeit not top sellers, Ford has made it clear that they will continue to grow their hybrid offerings. Chevrolet has recently announced that their Malibu Hybrid will soon be discontinued, and sales of their Saturn Vue hybrid SUV have become stagnate. Despite issues among competing American hybrids, Kansas City used car dealers admire Ford's determination to push forward in the volatile hybrid market.
For 2010, Ford hybrid vehicles features 2.5-liter four cylinder engines that produce 155 horsepower and 136 lb ft of torque. These engines are mated to an electronically controlled CVT and feature Intake Variable Cam Timing - a system that Salinas Auto Body Shop says makes the transition between gasoline power and electric power seamless.
The recent Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid also feature electronic throttle control to reduce excess fuel consumption when the vehicle is started. Washington DC Ford repair specialists point out that the 2010 hybrid models also feature smaller and more efficient batteries.
While American automakers are struggling to break the stigma that they aren’t capable of producing fuel efficient cars, Ford is clearly working harder to provide what consumers demand - small cars that get strong mpg.
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