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That's the new message that Ford wants the buyers of hybrid
cars to understand. Because of Ford's lighter
battery - and its 20 percent increase in power and
improved chemistry at higher temperatures - the Ford
Fusion hybrid is able to stay in electric mode up
to speeds as high as 47 mph, unlike the 35 mph to
which many other hybrids are confined.
“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,” says Praveen Cherian, the Fusion Hybrid
program team leader.
As a Camry
hybrid owner, I feel a bit of Fusion hybrid envy.
It's an awesome hybrid, an awesome car.
Still, while I'm impressed with the Fusion hybrid, I
have serious concerns regarding Ford's hybrid plans.
First, if Ford's Fusion hybrid is so awesome, why
isn't Ford trying harder to produce more than 25,000
hybrids per year? Second, if you've outdone Toyota in
some way, why not take on the Prius
and really send a message that your hybrids are better
than today's best?
Is Ford's battery technology less cost-effective? Less
reliable? Is it already dead technology and,
therefore, meaningless? Just too many lingering
questions.
Labels: Hybrid Vehicles
