: Ford - Hybrid and Alternative Fuel

Ford sets hydrogen-powered land speed record

Thu, 16 Aug 2007 15:53:18 GMT

Interesting new press release yesterday by Ford, although it is unfortunately short on hard technical details.

This in my mind is probably the best example of true innovation (versus the weak innovation marketing campaign of last year) at Ford. Not only is Ford stretching the limits of a developing technology via racing (which I always admire), but this is the technology of the long-term future and is one that promises to significantly benefit our country by reducing dependence on foreign oil and therefore increasing our security and economic freedom.

Now believe me, I'm not a radical "greenie"... and I can't stand Al Gore. And I'm not so naive to believe that anything can or should change on a dime. But I am a believer in the evolution of technology, there are new technologies that are developing well, and I see significant advantage to reducing foreign dependence.

As for the impact of alternative powerplants on racers and driving enthusiasts... we can just start to see how that might be demonstrated as viable and even potentially as a better thing. There will be speedbumps along the way, and the development emphasis will be on mainstream vehicles before performance vehicles. But there is no need to fear the future of performance... it will always be a consumer requirement and all three of the following technologies offer advantages. And from an engineering standpoint, isn't powerplant efficiency and performance the same thing anyway?

Now lets go out a few years in time:

3 years: Hybrid sports vehicles, like the exciting Toyota FT-HS concept ( http://www.drivingenthusiast.net/sec-blog/2006/12/27.html#a1930 ), are probably a stop-gap solution until better battery technology can be invented or hydrogen can be fully exploited. The problem is complexity - you are carrying two drivetrains around with you. You are further compromised by the intention of the vehicle to get maximum mileage... perhaps the Toyota could be switched between it's V-6 engine and a hybrid mode by the driver (performance for the track... economy for the ride home)? But don't be so quick to write-off hybrid technology - there are efficiencies in the gasoline engine yet to be exploited and the electric hybrid part of the equation will only get better. I see more hybrids coming rather than less, and a performance hybrid that pushes the limits of technology can only improve the implementation to the benefit of all kinds of hybrids vehicles, pedestrian as well as sport. I, BTW, would buy an FT-HS when it comes out just to see what I can do with it.

10 years: Fully electric vehicles are not yet ready for mainstream or performance drivers, but offer great promise. An electric motor provides instant torque but would have power endurance issues on a high-speed racetrack. There isn't anything on the immediate horizon that you could drive to a track weekend and enjoy as you would today. Batteries are again the problem, and will continue to be the problem until a significant breakthrough is found. When a breakthrough is finally developed, you'll have a car that revs to tens of thousands of RPM provides constant torque throughout the powerband, and accelerates without compromise. Charging will be an issue - both the infrastructure to support charging "fill up" stations on the roads as well as at the tracks (where you might well plug in the car between sessions on the track). Racers will need a dry pit space with a recharging station. At my usual track, I have my last 20-minute session of the day on Sunday afternoon at 4:30 PM. I'd then have to grab some sort of fast charge before my 105 mile drive home in the evening - and maybe even another at a dinner stop along the way.

20 years: Hydrogen solves several problems... it's cheap and plentiful, clean, easy to obtain, and it generates it's own power. All we need is significant technology development, then significant production capability, and then significant infrastructure (refilling). It's all happening, although very very slowly and with lots of problems to solve and obstacles to overcome. This is probably a 20-year process at the least. Lets go to my racetrack 20 years from now: instead of rows of tanks of racing gas (although there would still be 93 octane fuel available for the vintage racers and the last of the hybrids) there would be a hydrogen generating plant. Filling up after a session on the track would be not unlike filling up a propane bottle - although at considerably higher pressures. Cost would be dependent upon the cost of electricity - that's what generated the hydrogen. Modern nuclear technology would be an absolutely necessary part of the overall infrastructure to support hydrogen generation. And that technology already exists and will only get better as we field more of it.

Now imagine a world where we aren't dependent on foreign oil for our truck and cars. Where our own capabilities can supply sufficient oil for air transportation, plastics manufacturing, and other needs. We'll still be involved in straightening out certain political messes in the Middle East and South America, and those will get worse with loss of the majority of their revenue (because we got smart and got away from oil), but 2-bit dictatorships won't be able to hold us hostage with oil any longer.

Realistically, we'll have to accelerate our efforts to get to this point in 20 years. But the technology is moving ahead, it's being shown more and more often to the public, and both Ford and GM have made significant progress so far. A "Manhattan Project" effort has been proposed and it's not a bad idea as long as industry drives it and not Government. Government should only provide the incentives.

Now imagine where suspension technology will be in 20 years. I can't wait.

Ford press release follows:

HYDROGEN FUEL CELL FUSION SETS LAND SPEED RECORD

DEARBORN, Aug. 15, 2007 -- The Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 raced to a record 207.297 miles per hour Wednesday at the famous Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, which makes the world’s first and only production vehicle-based fuel cell race car the fastest as well.

After more than one year of design and development and 10 years of hydrogen vehicle research, Ford’s fuel cell vehicle team battled technical difficulties and a harsh desert environment en route to joining the 200 MPH Club of Bonneville Speed Week, an annual event that attracts hundreds of racing teams.

“What we’ve accomplished is nothing short of an industry first," said Matt Zuehlk, lead engineer on the project. "No other automaker in the world has come close."

Zuehlk added that Ford’s historic run at Bonneville is to further expand its technological horizons with fuel cell-powered vehicles, because it is a fuel that could someday play a key role in meeting the energy needs of the transportation sector. The Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 is Ford’s latest environmental innovation and is another step on the road toward commercially viable hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

The project is a partnership between Ford, The Ohio State University Center for Automotive Research, Ballard Power Systems and Roush Racing. Rick Byrnes, a veteran Bonneville racer and retired Ford Powertrain component design engineer, piloted the Hydrogen 999 at Bonneville.

Ford Paradox - great stuff coming but company dead before it arrives

Thu, 12 Jul 2007 15:38:00 GMT

Cars! Cars! Cars! ("A Car Blog. Only Angrier") sees a paradox in a recent statement by Allan Mulallay: that getting a plug-in hybrid to market will take 5-10 years.

Problem is that most of the world also understands that Ford may well be dead well before that time. Read the full article: http://carscarscars.blogs.com/index/2007/07/ford-sees-plug-.html

Background: a plug-in hybrid is one that relies on stored electrical power (battery) rather than gas engine-generated electrical power. A plug-in hybrid would be plugged into your home overnight to charge it for the next day. The gas engine would only be used as an absolute last resort. Un-said is that the electric engine would need to be usable at higher speeds and across a broader range of driving conditions than the typical hybrid of today. If you drive an Escaqpe hybrid today, brisk acceleration can result in a switch back to the gas engine, along with certain road speeds, running the full "max" air conditioner, and more. People are finding in the Escape and in other hybrids that they are spending less time on the electric engine that they would have hoped (and therefore getting worse fuel economy). I've said it before: I'd be happy to have an Escape Hybrid for a daily driver if it wasn't for these limitations. In the heat of a Texas summer, we require MAX aircon. I'd like to see what "version 2" of this system looks like... it's known that a hybrid Fusion is coming and perhaps that will have some evolution in the powertrain.

Cars! Cars! Cars! is always a good read. I see a kindred soul there... somebody who enjoys telling it the way it is, but also has the knowledge to back it up.

Site: http://carscarscars.blogs.com/
RSS Feed: http://carscarscars.blogs.com/index/rss.xml

Ford Airstream Concept

Sun, 07 Jan 2007 12:18:22 GMT

TWO AMERICAN ICONS DELIVER THE CROSSOVER MODEL OF THE FUTURE WITH THE FORD AIRSTREAM CONCEPT

Crossover growth is exploding : Ford Airstream Concept speaks to the future of crossovers as the market segment is projected to top 3 million units annually by the end of the decade.

Green Journey : Ford Airstream Concept is powered by a new plug-in hydrogen hybrid fuel cell – called HySeries Drive – that operates under electric power at all times and delivers the combined city/highway equivalent fuel economy of 41 miles per gallon.

Two icons of American transportation: Ford and Airstream have teamed up to deliver a futuristic crossover concept, showing what tomorrow’s road trip vehicles could look like.

DETROIT, Mich. , Jan. 7, 2007 – Playing to win in the growing crossover segment, Ford has joined with another iconic company to showcase how it could further expand its lineup of expressive crossovers with the Ford Airstream Concept.

“Crossovers are an increasingly important part of our business, and Ford is going to continue developing an expressive range of these vehicles,” says Peter Horbury, executive director – Design, The Americas. “The Ford Airstream Concept is a futuristic look at crossovers. It’s the ultimate modern touring vehicle that delivers flexibility and capability with dynamic design that evokes the spirit of the journey.”

The concept is powered by a plug-in hydrogen hybrid fuel cell drivetrain – called HySeries Drive™ – that operates under electric power at all times. This advanced fuel cell system is half the weight and cost of today’s fuel cells and can operate in the dead of winter. That’s a major step forward because today’s fuel cells don’t do well when the mercury dips below freezing.

Natural Intersection

The Ford Airstream Concept captures the sense of optimism and adventure conveyed in American aircraft, spacecraft and the streamlined shape of Airstream trailers. It’s reflected in the crossover concept’s organic, fuselage-inspired form language, unique reflective paint and 12 ceremonial rivets, which pay homage to Airstream’s iconic construction.

“For 75 years, Airstream has been an icon synonymous with the optimism, discovery and wanderlust that’s helped defined America,” said J Mays, group vice president – Design, and chief creative officer. “It seemed only fitting for us to come together through our shared passion for the open road and show a vision for the future of American transportation.”

Much like Ford, Airstream began with one man’s dream. In 1931, Wally Byam began leveraging aircraft-construction methods to make trailers aimed at feeding Americans’ surging desire to travel.

“Silver bullets” have been shooting up and down highways ever since, leading a Recreational Vehicle industry that’s realized record profits and revenues in 2005 and the first half of 2006.

“Business for Airstream and the RV industry has been strong, but we want to continue finding options for tomorrow’s road trips. Our success in recent years has come from challenging the conventional thinking about what an Airstream is. The Ford Airstream Concept is a stunning example of just that,” says Bob Wheeler, president and chief executive officer of Airstream. “Plus, a partner like Ford, with its long history as an American icon, made perfect sense for this kind of exploration.”

Common Ground

Both companies are influenced by economic and demographic trends – chiefly baby boomers approaching retirement age.

In the U.S., 11,000 people turn age 50 every day. These consumers are starting to downsize their lives and their vehicles, opting for more nimble and fuel-efficient models. With their children leaving home and some retiring, they also have more time for travel.

For Ford, that trend – plus younger couples starting families later – is fueling a shift to crossover vehicles.

The crossover segment is expected to hit 3 million units by the end of the decade, making it potentially the largest U.S. vehicle segment.

For Airstream, these demographic changes are meaningful as well. RV ownership is highest among retirement-age consumers, and by the end of the decade, 50- to 64-year-old consumers will tally
57 million – a 38 percent increase versus 2000, according to University of Michigan studies.
And the number of RV-owning households is expected to grow to 8.5 million during the same period.

Seeing the Future Today

Growing Ford’s crossover share means breaking through the competitive and fragmenting segment, and the company is leveraging bold designs to win customers.

Ford’s crossover lineup already features the functional Freestyle, newly launched agile and modern Edge and, in time, will include a more refined full-size crossover based on the Fairlane concept.

Ford designers wanted to push further into the future and tapped inspirations including Airstream’s iconic designs and the optimistic future Stanley Kubrick created and captured in his 1960s cult film 2001: A Space Odyssey. These inspirations are evident – inside and out.

The concept’s bold, futuristic front-end explores a new look for Ford, encapsulating the single-surface grille and headlamps into the same graphic. Each of the concept’s bold orange-trimmed window graphics is a unique shape.

“This reflects the purpose of the vehicle: looking out and remembering that the journey – not the destination – matters most,” said Freeman Thomas, director, North American Strategic Design. “The Ford Airstream Concept is an ultra-modern, optimistic vehicle that allows passengers a pure traveling experience to enjoy with good company, no matter the destination .”

Its doors are asymmetric as well, allowing for easy loading of passengers and cargo. In addition to the driver’s side hatch, the passenger side features a power clamshell door that runs two-thirds the length of the vehicle. A three-door hatch finishes the rear of the crossover.

Futuristic Interior

The futuristic theme and modern form language of the exterior carries through to the concept’s interior.

“Through the materials, color palette and technology, the Ford Airstream Concept has distinct cues from the spacecraft and environments portrayed in 2001: A Space Odyssey,” says Thomas. “We’re able to maximize the spaciousness of the interior, creating a lounge atmosphere in contrasting colors of cosmic red and white that provides an inviting experience for the ultimate journey.”

The Ford Airstream Concept features a floating instrument panel with flush-mounted, touch-sensitive controls and a multi-function single gauge display provides the driver all primary information.

A Sharp® dual-view screen centrally mounted on the instrument panel provides a camera view and secondary driver-oriented information, while allowing the front-seat passenger to view DVDs and post mobile blogs. The driver and front-seat passenger will navigate in style in modern, pod-shaped swiveling captain’s chairs that also rotate so they can easily socialize.

In the rear, lounge-like seating is sculptural, creating a continuous cocoon-like environment wrapped in bold red B&B Italia fabric. The focal point of the rear seating area is a 360-degree screen for entertainment and games. The unique screen also creates ambient mood settings, including a modern lava lamp and virtual fire, as well as a live camera feed.

How the Rubber Meets the Road

The new HySeries Drive plug-in hydrogen fuel cell featured in the Ford Airstream Concept is more than a concept.

This powertrain is already on the road and driving in a Ford Edge prototype. Ford scientists and engineers created this vehicle with partial funding from the United States Department of Energy. The HySeries Drive delivers the combined city/highway equivalent fuel economy of 41 miles per gallon.

In this application, the fuel cell’s sole function is to recharge the vehicle’s lithium-ion battery pack as needed. This allows it to work like a portable generator, instead of an engine, as had been the case in previous Ford fuel cell vehicles.

The new fuel cell, supplied by Ford partner Ballard, operates in a steady state, allowing a significantly smaller, less expensive fuel cell and drastically improving the durability of the fuel cell. With this system, the fuel cell delivers the power needed to recharge the lithium-ion batteries, rather than to be the primary power source to drive the wheels, as in a typical fuel cell-powered vehicle.

In pure electric mode, the Ford Airstream Concept can travel 25 miles before the fuel cell begins operating to recharge the vehicle’s 336-volt lithium-ion battery pack. With the hydrogen-powered fuel cell, the range increases another 280 miles for a total of 305 miles.

Safe Journeys

Safety belts remain the most important safety technology in vehicles. Ford is researching several new safety belt designs, including four-point safety belts found in the front seats of the Ford Airstream Concept.

“Inside, outside and under the hood, the Ford Airstream Concept speaks to the future,” Mays said. “Ford is looking out onto the horizon and imbuing crossovers with emotion, made even more powerful by our association with Airstream.”

Ford Airstream Concept Specifications

Powertrain

Ford’s HySeries Drive plug-in hydrogen hybrid fuel cell

Chassis lengths

Overall length: .......................185.0 in.

Wheelbase: .............................125.9 in.

Overall width: ..........................78.9 in.

Overall height at curb: ..............70.6 in.

Track width

Front: .......................................67.6 in.

Rear: ........................................69.2 in.

Suspension

Front: ................. Double wishbone-independent suspension

Rear: ..................Multi-link independent

Headroom

Front: .......................................37.5 in.

Second Row: ............................36.2 in.

Legroom

Front: .......................................39.6 in.

Second Row: ............................33.1 in.

Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures and distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 300,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Aston Martin, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury and Volvo. Its automotive-related services include Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com.

Airstream

The First Airstreams, known for their high-quality riveted aluminium shells and state-of-the-art interiors, were built in 1931 by Wally Byam. Airstream, a subsidiary of THOR Industries Inc. since 1980, is world-renowned for quality, innovation and design. An Airstream is more than just a trendy product, it’s a way of life embraced by thousands around the world for more than seven decades. Now celebrating its 75 th anniversary, the company continues the legacy today with its world-class travel trailers, motorhomes, and services. For additional information about Airstream, please visit www.Airstream.com.

2008 MERCURY MARINER - minor upgrades to little point.

Fri, 06 Oct 2006 11:41:23 GMT

Unexpectedly, Mercury released a press package on the 2008 Mariner.

I'm extremely disappointed in Ford Motor Company. What will undoubtedly be advertised as "all new" is in fact just a very slight rehash with minimal investment by Ford (just like the upcoming 2008 Focus).

In styling: The major change is a large schnozola grill up front: all-too-typical Ford fare these days (thinking that ruined the Explorer, and makes the F-250 even more obscene). The major body panels are essentially the same (minor work around the taillights and roof), the dashboard is improved in appearance but is functionally all but identical. Again, minimal investment.

In mechanicals: the three engines are also essentially unchanged. The V-6 remains at the same output and the same 4-speed automatic transmission. This is stone-age stuff these days. Forget about the 3.5 V-6 and 6-speed. You'll see that the press release below takes note of moving the alternator on the V-6 - this is certainly a stretch attempt to make something of consumer value from a simple engineering change (probably made for sourcing purposes). The steering gets a slight and easy-to-make improvement, something it badly needed. And the standard braking system remains small front discs and rear drums - larger discs are only available on the 4WD V-6 and the hybrid. Unbelievable.

Sp the net result is an inexpensive attempt by Ford to cover up the advancing age of this platform with minor updates that should have been years ago. The platform itself is old, it was designed by Mazda 10 years ago from previous-gen 626 mechanicals. It was initialy very well received and earned top rankings by Car and Driver (amoung others)... but as the years went by it fell further and further behind.

Toyota and Honda both have excellent products - even Hyundai has a better product. There is absolutely no reason whatsoever to shop from Ford or Mercury in this segment.

THE 2008 MERCURY MARINER EXHIBITS A NEW LOOK, SOPHISTICATION AND FLAIR

**2008 Mercury Mariner**

2008 Mercury Mariner – featuring a new look inside and out – goes on sale in early 2007.
An all-new interior showcases a fresh design direction for all Mercury products.
Innovative refinements help reduce interior NVH levels by 12 percent.
Chassis upgrades and new Electric Power Steering (EPS) system improve Mariner’s car-like ride and handling without sacrificing off-road ability.
Mariner features one of the most advanced safety package in the small SUV segment, including standard side curtain air bags and AdvanceTrac ® with RSC ® – Ford Motor Company’s unique roll stability control system.
Mariner Hybrid updated with refined control systems to improve drivability and overall performance.

Introduced in 2005 as Mercury’s entry-level, small SUV, Mariner built on the style and success of the mid-size four-door Mountaineer. The original Mariner was designed for customers who wanted a little more than a standard, small SUV, as it delivered a high level of design sophistication, more standard features, premium interior materials and unique content in a smartly packaged, fuel-efficient model.

Now, with the first significant redesign of Mariner since its launch, the new 2008 model builds on that foundation by adding higher levels of style and refinement – it is a look that will define the Mercury brand moving forward.

The 2008 Mariner hits dealer showrooms in early 2007 and is completely redesigned inside and out. In addition to fresh sheet metal with new Mercury design cues and a remade interior, Mariner is updated with a comprehensive safety package, a quieter ride and more refined driving dynamics. What has not changed is the overall package: Mariner retains the fuel-efficiency, maneuverability and the fun-to-drive nature that is a core characteristic of the small SUV package.

“The 2008 Mariner is the first product to truly deliver 100 percent of the design DNA for Mercury as a brand,” says Kim Irwin, Mercury brand manager. “It looks good and drives well, it has sophisticated style, and it’s not like anything else out there.”

The 2008 Mariner enters the market at a time when customers are looking for smaller SUVs that still deliver on the attributes demanded of a traditional SUV, such as four-wheel drive, a commanding seating position, towing capability and good cargo capacity. The new Mariner continues to balance all these demands, wrapping it all in a sophisticated and stylish package that can only be found on a Mercury.

Clean, Modern and Sophisticated Exterior Design Sets Mariner Apart

On the outside, the 2008 Mariner’s all-new sheet metal includes significant design changes to the front/rear fascias, liftgate, headlamps and taillamps, a raised beltline, new hood and B-pillar blackout molding. There’s also a unique satin signature waterfall grille.

“Overall, the new Mariner looks more refined than the previous model,” says Stephen Lesh, program manager for the 2008 Mariner. “The hood is raised and it’s more squared off. With its new look and enhanced features, the 2008 Mariner is perfect for customers who want something a little smaller than Mountaineer, gets a little better mileage and yet still delivers all the capabilities of an SUV.”

One striking visual statement on the 2008 Mariner is the new grille that’s larger, with bigger openings between the bars. The Mercury badge in the middle of the waterfall grille is larger, too. More brightwork front and rear gives 2008 Mariner an unmistakable Mercury presence on the road. The previous model’s body-color molding and lower body cladding are removed, giving Mariner a cleaner, more seamless profile. Mercury-exclusive integrated side repeater lamps is another Mercury’s design cue and adds an element of safety.

Head and taillamps have a unique “eyebrow” design running around the lenses, bringing together the front and rear ends of the vehicle. Look closely: The headlamps are accentuated with a Mercury badge subtly integrated inside the housing. The taillamps have four inner lenses and a clear lamp with a red inner lens. The “powerdome” hood has a unique reverse crease that draws the eye from the grille toward the windshield.

The design changes go more than skin deep. “Every surface was changed to make the vehicle look more substantial than the previous model,” said Doyle Letson, chief designer for Mariner. “We wanted the new Mariner to have a presence, sophistication and attention to detail that would be more appealing to the customer.”

On top of the vehicle, a new roof panel helps reduce NVH (noise, vibration and harshness). “Recessed channels on top of the vehicle are designed to improve air flow over the vehicle,” said Letson. “We found out that if we tweaked the size and position of these channels, we could affect NVH in a very positive way.”

Horizontal ribs in the roof also strengthen body structure and help reduce boom from wind noise while larger mirrors that improve rear visibility have been carefully tailored to reduce wind noise.

Mariner is available in two trim levels: the well-equipped Mariner and the up-level Mariner Premier that adds bright machined 16-inch aluminum wheels (with optional chrome-clad 17-inch wheels), available satin inserts on the roof rack, leather seats, a power driver’s seat, dual automatic temperature control and body-color mirrors.

Three new 2008 Mariner colors include Kiwi, Light Ice Blue and Black Pearl Slate. In all, eight exterior colors will be offered on the new Mariner.

Mariner’s Stylish, Sophisticated and Refined Interior Moves Further Upscale

Inside, Satin Pewter finishes and chrome accents give the 2008 Mariner an upscale look. There are new seats, door trim panels, A- and B-pillar trims, center console and a new floor-mounted shifter. The seats are monochromatic or two-tone with Alcantara ® Suede inserts.

“The way we define the brand is, it’s cool,” says Evelyn Bowman, interior designer for the Mariner. “Mariner’s interior is savvy, forward and technical looking. It has a lot of eye-popping details that resonate well with our target customer.”

Signaling a new direction for Mercury interior design, the 2008 Mariner is the first Mercury vehicle to debut three innovative interior features.

A “top of dash” display positioned at eye level on the dashboard shows inside and outside temperature, radio functions and climate control readouts. When the driver or front passenger adjusts a knob or button on the instrument panel, the change is reflected in the eye-level display instead of lower down on the dashboard where information is typically located. This simple, efficient design puts much of the vehicle’s information in one place at the top of the dashboard, making it easier to read while driving.
Ice Blue Lighting replaces green on the instrument cluster, on the center console, on the door lock and window switches and on the steering wheel. Ice Blue presents a cool, crisp, easy-on-the-eyes light for night driving and enhances the overall quality feel of the interior.
Replacing the traditional “brick” design for the radio and heating/air conditioning controls, Mariner features dials and buttons that “poke-through” the center console. The instrument panel houses audio and climate controls, a standard MP3/iPod ® jack, controls for the heated seats and an available in-dash Navigation system. The result is a more integrated, more finished look.

In addition to these features, Mariner’s center console has innovative space and storage solutions. The console features best-in-class volume and two removable bins with dovetail mounting points on the front passenger side or rear of the console. The medium-sized bins can be used as a trash receptacle, an extra place to put a music player, or an additional storage space for keys, sunglasses, etc.

The center console in the new Mariner is large enough to hold a laptop computer, and there are three levels of storage space. The bottom storage level features a secret compartment that goes nearly to the floor of the vehicle so Mariner owners can hide valuables like a digital camera or purse. The rear part of the console has molded-in rear-seat cupholders that are higher, sturdier and easier to reach than in the previous model.

The storage area behind the second row of seats has a newly available rear cargo management system. Lifting the rear cargo area carpet reveals a hidden, lockable place to store items – it’s a second “wet” trunk to keep snorkeling gear or wet beach towels away from dry bags or clothes. The rear cargo area carpet is also reversible – flip it over and there’s an easy-to-clean rubber surface.

The air conditioner has been improved for more comfort in hot weather conditions. A larger air conditioner compressor improves overall performance, and new rectangular air vents near the top of the dashboard efficiently direct air to passengers in the back seat and do not blow directly on the driver’s hands.

A host of other features elevate the level of sophistication inside Mariner. A new floor-mounted shifter, for example, let engineers remove the emergency brake handle from the center console, freeing up room between the seats; the emergency brake is now engaged with a floor-mounted pedal and released with a handle on the dashboard. Thoughtfully sculpted door panels create more elbow room; audio speakers sit higher in the front doors for better sound clarity; and the rear doors have new storage bins.

Mariner is also one of the first Ford Motor Company vehicles to feature One-Touch Integrated Start. This feature lets the driver put the key in the ignition, turn it once and then let go – like electronic “start” buttons that are becoming common on luxury cars.

New Steering and Chassis Upgrades Improve Mariner’s Ride and Handling

The 2008 Mercury Mariner is one of the first Ford Motor Company vehicles to use speed-sensitive Electric Power Steering (EPS), a sophisticated system that improves overall steering feel and is more efficient than conventional systems.

Conventional power steering systems use a hydraulic gear that gets power from a belt turned by the engine – this draws power and efficiency from the engine. The 2008 Mariner has seamless electric-power-assisted steering that draws power from an electric motor instead of drawing power directly from the engine accessory drive. This new system helps improve fuel economy and eliminates the hydraulic noises typical of conventional hydraulic power-assisted steering systems. Because there are no hydraulic lines or fluid, maintenance costs over the life of the vehicle are reduced, too.

EPS and a retuned suspension reinforce Mariner’s confident on-road ride. For 2008, Mariner’s car-like feel is further improved with a reduction in the rear spring rates from prior models and a front stabilizer bar that grows from 20 to 21 mm. Models with 17-inch wheels/tires get unique rear dampers and a 22-mm front stabilizer bar.

For 2008, gasoline-powered Mariners come with an all-new 10-inch , front disc/rear drum braking system that is more durable, quieter and emits less dust.

“With Mariner’s new braking system, stopping distances are equivalent to the previous model,” said Tom Skwirsk, Mariner Brake System Supervisor. “The difference now, however, is that customers will get improved life on linings and rotors, which greatly reduces the cost of ownership. There’s also better NVH. Because the new brakes are larger, they run cooler and are quieter. A new brake lining material creates much less brake dust, virtually eliminating the need to clean brake dust from the front wheels.”

The 2008 Mariner Hybrid continues with regenerative four-wheel-disc brakes.

A Focus on NVH Refinement Delivers a Quiet, Car-Like Ride

Engineers made a host of changes to the 2008 Mariner to lower NVH levels inside
the vehicle.

“There is a noticeable improvement in wind and road noise,” says Eric Loeffler, chief engineer of the 2008 Mariner. “We measure noise in sones, but what we’re really trying to go after is the level of speech intelligibility inside the vehicle. We’ve made significant improvements to Mariner that will be very noticeable to customers.”

To achieve lower NVH levels, a new acoustic windshield laminate is sandwiched between two glass panels in the front windshield. In addition to preventing the windshield from breaking apart in a collision, the new laminate material reduces the sound level of wind noise experienced in the vehicle. There’s an acoustic headliner in the vehicle as well, and the interior carpet is thicker than the previous model and does a better job of isolating noise. Overall, carpet volume has increased by 25 percent with a 50 percent increase in thickness over about 50 percent of the area.

There’s a host of other NVH enhancements, too.

Side glass thickness has increased from 3.8 to 4.7 mm and helps prevent outside noise from entering the passenger cabin.
On V6-equipped models, engineers moved the alternator from the right to left side of the engine. Because the engine is transversely mounted, the noise is now located farther away from the passenger cabin.
A new, quieter cooling fan reduces idle noise.
All-wheel drive models have a new rear differential that is quieter and smoother.
New windshield molding and low profile wipers help improve airflow around the vehicle and reduce wind noise.
Redesigned recessed channels on top of Mariner are staggered and shorter to reduce boom as air flows over the top.
Outside mirrors are larger and careful attention was given to their design to minimize wind noise.
Additional sound deadening material has been added throughout the vehicle to reduce noise throughout the interior.

Compared with the previous model, the 2008 Mariner is 12 percent quieter on the highway (30.8 sones to 27 sones at 80 mph in the wind tunnel) and 20 percent quieter in high velocity cross winds.

Mariner’s Proven Chassis and Powertrain Reinforce Mariner’s Car-Like Ride

Mariner is tuned for the urban environment to deliver a comfortable and controlled ride. Unibody construction contributes to its light weight, nimble maneuverability, and a low stance makes it easy to get in and out of the vehicle. A responsive architecture – with four-wheel independent suspension – gives Mariner precise steering and handling and the ability of each wheel to react separately to road imperfections.

Mariner comes standard with front-wheel drive. An available Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) system automatically transfers torque from front to rear as required by road conditions without driver intervention. The computer-controlled system operates so seamlessly that its engagement is barely noticeable to most drivers.

The Intelligent 4WD System has a fully computer-controlled clutch that engages the rear wheels as needed. Using sensors at each wheel and the accelerator, the system’s computer can calculate up to 200 times per second exactly how much torque to send to the rear wheels to minimize slip. Intelligent 4WD constantly monitors all four wheels looking for tire slip on wet or snowy pavement and can transfer torque to the rear axle in a moment's notice. The system eliminates a drawback of other four-wheel-drive systems – a binding effect during tight turns and driveline harshness when the system engages. Mariner’s Intelligent 4WD System can sense tight turns and continuously vary the torque to the rear wheels at all speeds, offering the benefits of a "locked" four-wheel-drive system without any of the drawbacks.

The standard engine is a 2.3-liter, 16-valve Duratec 23 four-cylinder that produces 153 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 152 lb.-ft of torque at 4,250 rpm. An optional 3.0-liter, 24-valve V6 Duratec 30 engine produces 200 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 193 lb.-ft of torque at 4,850 rpm. Both engines come with a standard four-speed-automatic transaxle.

Mariner Hybrid Proves its Durability and Urban City Prowess

Mariner Hybrid comes with a 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine and a permanent magnet AC synchronous motor. The gasoline engine produces 133 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 124 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,250 rpm. The electric motor produces 70 kw @ 5,000 rpm and 330V maximum voltage. The net result is 155 horsepower with 0-60 times comparable to a 200 horsepower V6 engine and a boost in city-driving fuel economy of nearly 75 percent. A smooth-shifting, electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is the only available transmission on the hybrid model.

For 2008, Mariner Hybrid engineers made revisions to software in the control system to improve transparency, or the transition between gasoline and electric operation. The transition from all-electric to gasoline power to a combination of the two is now even more seamless and virtually imperceptible to the driver. Also, the four-wheel-disc regenerative brakes have also been retuned to provide better feel. With the 2008 model year, Mariner Hybrid will be available for the first time with a choice of front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Previously, the Mariner Hybrid was offered only as a four-wheel-drive model.

Mariner Hybrid continues to be a “full” hybrid. This means that, unlike other "mild" hybrid vehicles, Mariner Hybrid can run on 100 percent electric power up to about 30 mph, maximizing in-city fuel economy. Mariner Hybrid automatically switches between pure electric power, pure gasoline engine power or combined operation of the two to maximize efficiency and performance.

Full hybrids achieve their greatest improvement in fuel economy during stop-and-go driving where the electric motor is most efficient. The Mariner Hybrid provides approximately 75 percent better fuel economy in city driving than the conventional
V6 Mariner.

Safety Canopy™ with "Roll-Fold" Technology Offers Enhanced Rollover and Side-Impact Protection

The 2008 Mariner has, as standard safety equipment, a side-impact protection system consisting of several components: Ford’s Safety Canopy™ side air curtains provide head and neck protection for the first- and second-row passengers, and side impact airbags deploy out of the upper portion of the front seats to protect the upper and lower torso of the driver and passenger. Additionally, there are occupant friendly door trims with softened armrests, side impact foam bolsters and intrusion door beams that distribute the loading during an impact to the hinge and B pillars.

Safety Canopy™ side air curtains deploy in certain side-impact collisions, or if an impending rollover is detected, to help protect front- and second-row outboard occupants. The curtains remain inflated for several seconds after deployment to enhance protection during an extended crash event.

The air curtains feature "roll-fold" technology. If occupants are improperly seated and resting their heads against a window, the Safety Canopy™ is designed to slide between the glass and occupants as it inflates.

Mariner is also one of the first 2008 model year vehicles designed to meet the upgraded, phase II Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for front- and side-impact collisions.

The new FMVSS 208 frontal test measures how well vehicle occupants are protected in a 35 mph crash against a rigid barrier; the previous test was conducted at 30 mph. In designing the vehicle to meet the new standards, engineers on the 2008 Mariner program developed an entirely revised restraint system that consists of new airbags, seat belts, steering column and a new steering wheel.

The government’s new FMVSS 214 test for side-impact collisions received even more changes for 2008.

“The revised 214 test represents a giant overhaul of side-impact government crash tests,” says Matthew Makowski, chief safety engineer for the 2008 Mariner. “The previous side-impact test used a side-impact dummy (SID) that was developed in the 1970s. The new 214 test scraps the old dummy and now uses a EuroSID-II RE dummy that measures loads that are better representative of a human body. There are also two dummies, a 50 th percentile dummy that represents half of the population and a 5 th percentile dummy that represents adults of a smaller stature.”

Designed with the new standard in mind, Mariner has new doors and a standard side-impact protection system; on the previous-generation Mariner, the side-impact protection system was available as an option only. Mariner also enters 2008 retaining the previous model’s double four-star front occupant safety rating from NHTSA.

Additional Mariner safety features include front seat load limiting seatbelts with dual-pretensioning that, in the event of a collision, remove the slack out of the safety belt in two places – at the buckle and at the retractor. This cinches the driver and front passenger in their seats and allows the seatbelts to "payout" through the ride-down of the crash event. Additionally, the driver and front passenger front airbags are new (the driver’s bag is one inch larger), and the energy absorbing knee bolster system of the instrument panel has been redesigned to provide better protection for both driver and front passenger.

Mariner also features standard ABS that helps the driver maintain control during an emergency stop on slippery road conditions.

AdvanceTrac ® with RSC ® Enhances Mariner’s Resistance to Rolling Over

Every non-hybrid 2008 Mariner comes standard with Advance Trac ® with RSC ®, a Ford Motor Company-exclusive roll stability control and active safety system not offered by any other manufacturer.

This active stability enhancement system offers a significant difference when compared to typical electronic stability control systems. While typical systems are designed to control yaw or spinout only, Ford Motor Company’s AdvanceTrac ® with RSC ® goes one important step further: it can enhance the vehicle’s resistance to rolling over.

Most systems use one gyroscopic yaw-rate sensor as they work to control yaw. AdvanceTrac ® with RSC ® uses a second gyroscopic roll-rate sensor to determine the vehicle’s body roll angle and roll rate. If this roll-rate sensor detects a significant roll angle, the system applies additional countermeasures – such as applying brakes to one or more wheels or reducing engine power – to enhance vehicle rollover resistance. AdvanceTrac ® with RSC ® is an integrated system of four major components that include:

Anti-lock Brake System (ABS): ABS regulates brake pressure to help prevent wheel lockup when trying to stop the vehicle.
Traction Control: When the traction control system detects a loss of adhesion between the wheels and the road surface, a computer quickly responds by reducing engine power when necessary and selectively applying brake force to the slipping wheel while transferring power to the opposite wheel.
Yaw Control: When understeer (which leads to “pushing” wide in a turn) or oversteer (which leads to the rear-end losing grip and coming around, or “fishtailing”) is detected, the system selectively applies individual brakes and modifies engine power to maximize control.
Vehicle Roll-motion Sensor: The Ford-exclusive gyroscopic roll-rate sensor helps monitor vehicle roll motion approximately 150 times per second. If it detects a significant roll angle, it automatically engages AdvanceTrac ® with RSC ® to help keep all four wheels safely on the ground.

AdvanceTrac ® with RSC ®is automatically engaged every time the vehicle is started. A switch lets drivers turn the traction control system and AdvanceTrac ® off when they may want the wheels to spin freely to help the tires “dig” for traction, such as during low-speed off-road driving or when traveling through deep snow or mud.

Ford is the first automaker to develop AdvanceTrac ® with RSC ® technology and has more than 80 patents and patent applications pending worldwide for the system. Ford Motor Company is making the technology available to other companies and automakers through licensing agreements.

Way Forward - product plans announced today

Fri, 15 Sep 2006 20:27:35 GMT

This morning's press conference revealed several upcoming product details (my comments in italics):

An updated Super Duty pickup will be unveiled in two weeks. Spy pictures have shown a slight update to the current body, and an entirely new (and very handsome) interior.
There will be a full-size crossover based on the Fairlane concept. This was already announced.
The 2008 F-150 get an uprated engine. Could this be the first appearance of the new Hurricane (now called Boss) engine? There is also a diesel engine, although as Ford often refers to the F-150 and F250/350 as the same line, this may in fact be the one we are aware of, rather than a separate diesel just for the smaller F-150.
There will be one new Mustang model each year going forward - starting with a new Bullitt in 2008. Hopefully the Bullitt won't be stranged with the lame 325-horse "enhanced" GT engine, as the last one was also similarily weak. The original Bullitt was a big-block, and Ford needs a larger engine in the lineup for competitive purposes. As much as I hate the idea of having to rely on bigger and bigger engines to make power, Ford needs an "LS2" of it's own - cheap, powerful, and simple to build. And can we please get a real rear suspension on the car rather than the stone-age solid axle it's dragging aorund now?
Redesigned gas and hybrid versions of the Escape and Mariner go on sale early next year. It's also clear from recent Mazda statements they will have a Tribute version. Spy shots of the Escape show headlamps similar to the Edge, with the existing roofline intact. Not a handsome vehicle.
The Lincoln MKS goes into production for 2008, and features a "new" 3.7 liter engine. It's anybody's speculation what this engine is, but since it's known the V-8 was cancelled and that the new 3.5 V-6 can grow to as much as 4 liters, this will almost certainly be the basis for the engine. Other press release statements made about the 3.5 in the past year reveal direct-injected and turbocharged versions of that engine are coming for undefined vehicles.
An updated Focus will be coming next year. Spy pics have already shown the same body with a Fusion-type grill. An ugly and pointless bandaid on a totally pointless, dated, and mediocre product.
Updates for the Five Hundred. Spy shots reveal the same grill. Today's announcement references a more-powerful engine and enhanced interior.
There will be "additional" hybrid vehicles on the road in late 2008. This likely means the Fusion, although a V-6 hybrid has been talked about previously. Given the declining pupularity of hybrids and the coming diesels, this may no longer happen.
2 out of 3 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles will be offered with 6-speed transmissions by the end of 2008. Good news - the trucks will loose the terrible 4-speed trannys, and perhaps there will be a new light-duty 6-speed for the Explorer/Mustang driveline.
Lincoln Town Car will continue in production, moved to Canada. This also means the 'vic will continue - as demonstrated in the recent preview of 2009 police car plans.

Ford V-10 Hydrogen-powered E-450 shuttle bus

Mon, 17 Jul 2006 18:22:09 GMT

I first had pictures of this engine on my site last November ( http://www.DrivingEnthusiast.net/sec-blog/2005/11/25.html#a1031 ), but today is the official announcement of this engine. It was also shown in a flexible-fuel version last January in the Super Chief concept ( http://www.DrivingEnthusiast.net/sec-blog/2006/01/08.html#a1160 ).

Press announcement follows.

FORD LAUNCHES PRODUCTION OF HYDROGEN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES FOR DELIVERY TO CUSTOMERS

**A supercharged 6.8-liter V-10 engine will power Ford's E-450 hydrogen fueled shuttle buses.**

Ford will be the first in the world to deliver a dedicated hydrogen internal combustion engine powered vehicle to commercial customers in E-450 shuttle buses later this year
Production of dedicated hydrogen fueled V-10 engines begins at Ford's Engine Manufacturing Development Operations in Dearborn Heights; engine tested to same production standards as other Ford engines.
Ford is the only automaker active in developing advanced gasoline hybrid-electric vehicles, hydrogen internal combustion engine vehicles, clean diesel, ethanol and hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicles.

DEARBORN Heights, Mich., July 17 - Ford today kicked off production of dedicated hydrogen fueled V-10 engines, making it the first automaker in the world to do so.

“This engine represents a significant milestone in Ford's research efforts in hydrogen technology,” said Dr. Gerhard Schmidt, vice president, Research & Advanced Engineering, Ford Motor Company. “We have learned a great deal about hydrogen powered internal combustion engines during the development phase of this engine.”

The supercharged 6.8-liter V-10 engine will power Ford's E-450 hydrogen fueled shuttle buses. The buses are scheduled to be delivered to fleet customers later this year, first in Florida and then in other locations across North America. Hydrogen internal combustion engine technology represents an important step toward enabling hydrogen to become a viable motor fuel.

**Ford's 6.8-liter V-10 engine is specially prepared to burn hydrogen as a fuel but is based on the same modular engine series that powers many Ford products**

Hydrogen fueled internal combustion engines have many advantages including high efficiency, all-weather capability, and near zero emissions of regulated pollutants and greenhouse gases (CO 2). They can also be easily hybridized for further gains in fuel efficiency.

While the hydrogen internal combustion engine shuttle buses will provide valuable real-world experience, Ford is also conducting research into next generation hydrogen internal combustion engines, including features such as direct injection to enhance power and fuel economy. "We have only scratched the surface in terms of what can be achieved with hydrogen internal combustion engine technology and are serious about maintaining our edge in this field," said Vance Zanardelli, chief engineer, Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines, Ford Motor Company.

Ford's hydrogen internal combustion engine is much more than just a converted production engine. This 6.8-liter V-10 engine is specially prepared to burn hydrogen as a fuel but is based on the same modular engine series that powers many Ford products. Significant efforts were made to optimize this engine for hydrogen fuel to achieve maximum efficiency and robust durability in the customer's hands.

Prior to production, more than 7,000 hours of development and testing was performed on engine dynamometers to ensure optimum durability and performance when vehicles reach customers later this year. The engine development process replicated the same stringent durability standards applied to other Ford engines.

Specialized components in the engine include:

Valves and valve seats – special hardened materials are used to compensate for hydrogen’s reduced lubricating properties compared to gasoline or natural gas
Spark plugs – Iridium tipped plugs allow for increased spark plug life
Ignition coils – high energy coil-on-plug coils, to manage unique ignition characteristics
Fuel injectors and fuel rail – Fuel injectors designed specifically for hydrogen and high volume fuel rails
Crank damper – tuned for hydrogen fuel to ensure smooth operation
Pistons, connecting rods and piston rings – high output designs to accommodate the higher combustion pressure of hydrogen combustion
Head gasket – accommodates increased combustion chamber pressures
Intake manifold – all-new to accommodate twin screw supercharger and water-to-air intercooler
Twin screw supercharger and water-to-air intercooler – added to improve power output and maximize efficiency
Engine oil – full-synthetic formulation developed in partnership with BP/Castrol optimized for hydrogen combustion properties

Hydrogen Part of a Broader Effort

Ford’s strategy for alternative fuels is built around multiple technologies, including hydrogen internal combustion engines. This flexible approach allows the company to meet goals for customer needs, environmental impact and shareholder interests. The strategy does not focus on one catch-all solution, but offers a flexible array of options, including hybrids, clean diesels, bio-diesels, advanced engine and transmission technologies and E85 ethanol.

Ford’s first hydrogen internal combustion engine demonstration vehicle, released in 2001, was based on a lightweight aluminum sedan body, which also was used in the development of hydrogen fuel cell technology. Subsequent projects included the Model U concept, first showcased at the 2003 North American International Auto Show, several Focus based demonstration vehicles, a V-6 powered tractor in use at Orlando International Airport as well as two hybridized transit buses. At the 2006 North American International Auto Show, Ford displayed the Super Chief Concept, which demonstrated Tri-Flex technology, which allows a vehicle to run on hydrogen, E-85 ethanol or gasoline.

Ford partner Mazda recently delivered its RX-8 Hydrogen RE to its first two corporate customers. These vehicles, equipped with a rotary engine, feature a dual-fuel system that allows the driver to select either hydrogen or gasoline with the flick of a switch.

Additionally, the company also has a fleet of 30 hydrogen powered Focus fuel cell vehicles on the road as part of a worldwide, seven-city program to conduct real world testing of fuel cell technology. The 30-car fleet has accumulated more than 240,000 miles since its inception.

Ford also offers gasoline-electric hybrids including the Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid. The company will also offer hybrid versions of the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan in 2008.

Technical Specifications

Type	6.8L SOHC V-10
Manufacturing Location	Engine Manufacturing Development Operations, Beech Daly Technical Center, Dearborn Heights, Mich.
Configuration	90-degree V-10, cast iron block and aluminum heads with hardened seats
Intake Manifold	Aluminum
Supercharger	3.3L/rev, twin screw compressor
Exhaust Manifold	Cast stainless steel
Crankshaft	Forged steel
Redline	5,000 rpm
Throttle Body	Twin 60 mm, electronic
Valvetrain	Hydraulic lash adjusters with roller followers, 2 valves per cylinder
Valve Diameter	Intake: 42.5 mm Exhaust: 34.0 mm
Pistons	High temperature forged aluminum alloy with low-friction coated skirts, ultra low oil consumption piston rings
Connecting Rods	Forged steel
Ignition	Coil -on Plug coils, 9.5 AMP, Iridium tipped spark plugs
Bore x Stroke	3.55 x 4.16 in / 90.2 x 105.8 mm
Displacement	415 cu in / 6,751 cc
Compression Ratio	9.4:1
Horsepower	235 @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower per Liter	34.5
Peak Boost	18-20 psi
Torque	310 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Recommended Fuel	Hydrogen
Fuel Injection	Sequential multiport fuel injection
Oil Capacity	6 quarts, with filter
Recommended Oil	Castrol Synthetic, 5W-20

Ford's Hybrid Promises Fail

Thu, 29 Jun 2006 21:37:57 GMT

Autos Insider (The Detroit News) is reporting that Ford is backpedaling on it's promise to build 250k hybrids per year by the end of the decade.

How this was to be done was never explained, other than the intent to produce a Hybrid Fusion based on the Escape powertrain and mention of a hybrid version of the 3.5 DOHC V-6 engine, probably for the large new front and all-wheel drive (shared platform) Fusion and Five Hundred.

But, lets face reality: Ford is broke, the stock is dropping, and their consideration (even though turned down) of bankruptcy shows how serious the situation is. Certainly major development funds are very rare.

Of course there is no telling what products will actually happen until announcements or specific interviews are held.

Meantime, all the flag waving and forced patriotism of the Bold Moves campaign will buy a little time, as is the point of such a marketing campaign, until further new products come out and prove themselves. "Prove" meaning that they are both relevant in the marketplace and have the required quality from launch day. And then there are the continuing near-extortion demands of the unions to deal with. The situation looks very bleak for Ford.

Poor Economics of Hybrids

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 21:00:35 GMT

Newsweek - via MSNBC - reports on lack of economic benefits of buying a Hybrid and owning it over a 5-year timeframe. Hybrids are expensive - and have no viable financial model even with the Federal tax credit (and that law expires as manufacturers reach a certain point). And any kind of savings at all are very dependent on a narrow range of a certain type of driving - which may or may not fit your pattern.

Bad news all around... and only for a political statement? What about the high rate of depreciation? Will there be a crash in this market once further long-term reliability data is available?

[Continue via link]

AutoProphet: Ford & GM drinking the hybrid kool-aid?

Tue, 14 Feb 2006 08:26:44 GMT

The Auto Prophet wonders if Ford & GM are "drinking the kool-aid" over hybrids.

Excellent point, and one to closely examine. Of course, GM doesn't currently make any real hybrids, not that they'd allow you to think that. And Ford makes 1 and exactly one hybrid: the Ford Escape Hybrid and it's clones from Mercury and Mazda. However, more are on the way - the same powertrain will be offered in the Fusion in 2007 and it's also known that a V-6 hybrid will be offered at some point in the larger cars. To the tune of 250,000 cars produced per year (assuming Ford can get it's battery suppliers in line).

But is there any real point in building these bybrids for the real world? Do they really save anything more than just a few miles per gallon? Are they there only to satisfy the greenies (of which Bill Ford is an enthusiastic member)? Good press and Government mileage credits don't mean anything on the street for new owners.

Food for thought, and worth further reading.

[Continue at source]

c|net 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid

Tue, 14 Feb 2006 07:52:35 GMT

c|net reviews the Ford Escape Hybrid. The engine is "commendably advanced"... the rest of the vehicle is poor. Editors rating: 6.4 out of 10. Full review provided. If you are an owner, you can also add your own experiences and rating.

AutoWeek: Mariner Hybrid... not so great...

Sun, 22 Jan 2006 14:36:28 GMT

AutoWeek reviews the Mariner Hybrid... and finds some issues. Same issues hold true for the Escape and Tribute hybrids too, since they are all clones.

I like the idea of this type of vehicle for commuting... but the reality of it doesn't work. There are quality issues, the mileage isn't very good, and I'd hate to find out what the resale or trade-in value is.

And, note how the reality of a new car always comes out well after it's introduction.. the press always makes a big splash at new-car introduction time... but that has zero relationship to how well the vehicle actually drives, how well it holds up... what quality and durability it does or does not have.

Ford clearly has some work to do here, in several areas. One is the NVH of the 2.3 liter engine - this engine has shown itself to be course and crude in every vehicle it's used in, including the MazdaSpeed6.

Another is weight... the Escape/Mariner/Tribute is getting very long in the tooth. I recently put a couple of hundred miles on a brand new 2006 V-6 AWD Escapeas very dissappointed - what started out as an almost sporty vehicle felt heavy and slow. No doubt made worse by the terrible shifting attributes of the 4-speed auto. That tranny is obsolete.. Ford needs to get the 3.5 liter V-6 into this vehicle alonig with it's 6-speed automatic.

Another example of Ford's lack of a continuous improvement philosphy. They've put all the money into the Hybrid version...and done almost nothing with the rest of the vehicle.

It's well-known that this basic powertrain is going to be put into the Fusion. It needs some additional refinement, perhaps even a second generation before it gets there.

[Continue at source]

Ford supercharged hydrogen-powered V-10 prototype

Fri, 25 Nov 2005 13:05:36 GMT

This is a prototype hydrogen powered 6.8 liter SOHC V-10 engine. It was shown by Ford earlier this year.

You may not be aware that Ford Power Products already offers a hydrogen-powered V-10 (sans supercharger) in the E-350 van.

More details, and hundreds of images of numerous Ford engines, in the Ford Motor Company Engines section of my site.

Hybrid Escape Taxis in New York City

Fri, 11 Nov 2005 15:47:25 GMT

This makes a lot of sense... and the taxi fleet in NYC is certainly in need of an update - as well as better mileage. Keep in mind that when the air conditioner is set to "Max", the engine reverts back to gas-only operation. With the passenger compartment partitioned off from the driver, this wil probably be the norm for much of the year.

Ford Press Release follows:

HYBRID TAXIS HIT NYC STREETS: NEW YORKERS HAIL FUEL-EFFICIENT CAB OF THE FUTURE

**A Ford Escape Hybrid gas-electric taxi, introduced at a news conference in New York City on Thursday, November 10, 2005.**

New York, NY (Nov. 10, 2005)—The greening of the iconic New York yellow taxi officially begins at 11 a.m. on Thursday as New Yorkers meet the first mini-fleet of hybrid taxicabs – six Ford Escape Hybrids. Ford was the first American auto manufacturer to introduce a hybrid vehicle.

The historic occasion was marked by a ceremony in New York, where officials from government, advocacy groups and industry gathered to send off the hybrid taxis in midtown Manhattan.

"I want to congratulate everyone involved for putting this innovative hybrid technology on the streets of New York City," says Ford Chairman and CEO Bill Ford.

Since 1907, only gasoline-powered taxis have worked NYC streets. Thanks to the "Clean Air Taxis Act" and new TLC regulations implemented this past summer, New York's cab drivers are now free to choose from seven gas-electric hybrid models. These hybrid taxis will help clear the air for riders, provide a big gas-savings lifeline for their drivers and lessen America's dependence on foreign oil.

"New York City is now the first major city to deploy hybrid cabs on a regular basis," said Jack Hidary, Chair of the Coalition Advocating for Smart Transportation, the alliance of health, civic and environmental organizations that led the way on this effort. "Hybrid engines reduce air pollution, fuel consumption, and driver expenses. Everybody wins with these cabs and New York leads the way towards energy independence."

Hybrid vehicles pollute far less and could achieve twice the city gas mileage of the current standard New York cab. The two-wheel-drive version of the Escape Hybrid achieves 36 miles per gallon in city driving, close to 500 miles per tank of gas, allowing cabbies to go an entire shift without taking time to fill up.

The change in city policy was prompted by growing public concern over New York's air quality - ranked as the third worst among the country's cities in 2004.

Seven out of 10 New Yorkers in a poll conducted by CAST last summer said New York taxis should be converted to hybrids sooner than later.

"Ford is working on innovative solutions to customer concerns over high gas prices and America's overdependence on foreign oil. New Yorkers will be the ultimate beneficiaries of innovative products like the Ford Escape Hybrid," says Bill Ford. Ford recently announced plans to produce up to 250,000 hybrids a year by 2010.

"We are excited about the progress these vehicles represent," said New York City Taxi Commissioner Matthew W. Daus. "New York City has always been a pioneer when it comes to taxicabs and innovation, and today it has been proven once again."

According to the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission, each New York taxi averages nearly 100,000 miles of driving annually. So, the fuel savings for drivers and operators could reach the thousands of dollars every year.

That savings could enable hybrid owners to recover the premium cost of the technology within the first year on the road.

"It's a no-brainer," says Evgeny Friedman, the co-owner of Taxi Club Management Inc., in Brooklyn. Friedman who purchased 18 of the first 27 hybrid medallions auctioned last October by the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission.

New York City Council Member John C. Liu, Chairperson of the Transportation Committee, stated: "Our actions in the City Council have focused national attention on the numerous potential benefits of hybrid vehicles and have brought us to this historic unveiling. Today, we witness New York City's first hybrid taxicab -- crucial technology for our post-Katrina economy -- which will help ensure a decent living for taxicab operators struggling with high fuel prices, provide cleaner air for New Yorkers, and help us contribute to a reduction in our nation's reliance on fossil fuels."

“When I first proposed alternative-fuel cars be used as cabs three years ago, hybrids were just beginning to reach the marketplace,” New York City Council Member David Yassky said. “But now -- with this new technology available and affordable, and with our law in place to allow these cars to be cabs -- there is no good reason to keep hybrids out of the taxi fleet.” Yassky said allowing hybrid cabs is not only good for the environment, but also good for business.

Ford teaches hybrid buyers how to drive.

Fri, 14 Oct 2005 15:00:03 GMT

Ford teaches hybrid buyers how to drive to get maximum mileage and return on their investment (ROI).

This is an interesting article... no doubt a program to combat the growing perception that hybrids in the real world don't always deliver everything they should.

By Sharon Silke Carty, USA TODAY

DEARBORN, Mich. — It's not often that a team of engineers can feel like celebrities.

But last weekend, Ford engineers spent two days teaching 300 well-educated, well-connected technology lovers everything they can do to maximize the mileage on their gas-electric hybrid versions of the Escape SUV.

Article Source: USA Today

Images below: Ford Motor COMpany

First Ford Hybrid Fuel Economy Clinic:
DEARBORN, MICH.--October 8, 2005, Mary Ann Wright (L), director, Ford Sustainable Mobility Technologies and Hybrid Programs talks with Bill Hammons of San Diego, Ca. in one of the very first Ford Escape Hybrid SUVs. On Saturday, Bill and Lisa Hammons drove from California, to attend the first-ever Ford Hybrid Fuel Economy Clinic in Dearborn.

First Ford Hybrid Fuel Economy Clinic:
DEARBORN, MICH.--October 8, 2005, More than 250 Ford Escape Hybrid SUV owners drove from across the country and Canada to attend the first-ever Ford Hybrid Fuel Economy Clinic in Dearborn. Some of the enthusiasts drove from as great distances as California and Washington.

Forbes: 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD

Tue, 11 Oct 2005 10:35:34 GMT

Forbes reviews the 2005 Escape Hybrid and discusses the tax advantages of owning one. Which, in CY2006, get even better with a new tax credit.

Ford Says 250,000 Vehicles To Be Gas/Electric By 2010

Sat, 24 Sep 2005 23:03:29 GMT

I may be wrong, but my best guesstimate is that all of these are varieties of the new Fusion chassis (including the upcoming people mover) and the existing or replacement Escape.

And what about the technology base? Will it be improved, how, and when? It they all continue to be based on the same 4-cylinder engine, or will Ford move upmarket into V-6 hybrid power - where the real profit lies according to Lexus and others.

Source: Automakers - Topix.net

Ford & The Sierra Club

Thu, 14 Jul 2005 22:12:24 GMT

With Sierra Club's Help, Ford Pushes a New Hybrid. DETROIT, July 11 - When the Sierra Club approached the Ford Motor Company last year and offered to help promote the company's first hybrid electric vehicle, the company spurned the olive branch.

Source: Automakers - Topix.net

Buy Your Mercury Mariner Hybrid Online

Tue, 12 Jul 2005 01:46:39 GMT

Mercury is bringing their Mariner Hybrid SUV to market early, due to consumer interest, but the company reports only 2,000 will be manufactured for the 2006 model year. I read the release twice, and don't understand it -- the Escape Hybrid is selling over a thousand units a month.

That may explain why the company is taking orders online at a special website, instead of going to the bother of trucking one each to every dealer in the country. With such a limited supply, it doesn't make sense to move them anywhere. It will be interesting to see how fast what is essentially a limited run will sell out.

Pricing starts at $29,840.

[Car Buyer's Notebook.com]

Ford Hybrid Escape

Sat, 20 Nov 2004 05:13:17 GMT

Ford Hybrid Escape

A very interesting article... a very technically interesting vehicle. An excellent effort for a first-gen design... it will be interesting to see how this advances into a 2nd generation technology.

2005 Ford Escape Hybrid Pricing Announced

Mon, 14 Jun 2004 07:00:00 GMT

I've been closely following the development of the Ford Escape Hybrid. Even if this isn't a type of vehicle you'd normally be interested in, it's worth watching. Ford has done a great job here - and (unusually) they did it first in this segment. That's a very strong position to be in - assuming of course that quality and durability is there from Day 1.

Another open question is how Ford will follow-up on this leadership position. While it's known that this same powertrain will make an appearance in the upcoming Ford mid-size 4-dr (based on the corporate Mazda-6 platform), nothing is known beyond that point. WIll this engine benefit from continuous improvement, or will it still be the same drivetrain in 5 years? Will his technology be used with a small V-6 engine?

More information: www.fordvehicles.com/escapehybrid.

==========================================Ford Press Release

DEARBORN, Mich., Jun. 14 - The hybrid-electric version of America's best-selling small SUV, the all-new 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid will have a base manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) under $27,000 when it hits showrooms later this summer.

The base price for the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid will be $26,380, excluding destination and delivery charges of $590. 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid equipped with four-wheel-drive will start at $28,005, plus destination and delivery charge.

The MSRPs of Escape Hybrid are $3,300 to $3,425 above comparably equipped 2005 V-6 powered Ford Escape XLT models.

Various federal and state incentives will be available to customers who purchase an Escape Hybrid. Under federal tax guidelines the Escape Hybrid will qualify for a "Clean Fuel Vehicles" tax deduction - $1,500 for 2004 purchases. The deduction can be taken regardless of whether the customer itemizes his/her taxes. Financial and other incentives may be provided at the state level. For example, some states offer income tax credits and/or state sales tax exemptions or reductions. Customers should consult a tax advisor for more information.


		Ford hopes to educate owners of cars like the Escape Hybrid on mileage basics.