Ford Confirms New Energy Policy

As you have read in our previous reports, American manufacturer Ford is looking into shaping a new line-up of vehicles to take on the more challenging US environmental laws. A "greener transportation vision" is the guide line of Ford's new approach, which will open the way for higher fuel efficiency.

“The foundation of Ford’s sustainability strategy is based on delivering affordable fuel economy for millions,” Sue Cischke, Ford Group vice president said in a release. “Government policy such as fuel standards and greenhouse gas emission regulations, as well as support for the development of advanced technologies, plays a key role in supporting Ford’s product and technology pathway for a more fuel-efficient future.”

As already announced, Ford will continue efforts to expand the EcoBoost engine technology to over 90 percent of its vehicle lineup. The company will try to develop additional fuel efficiency-related technologies, such as six-speed transmissions and electric power assist steering.

The first battery electric Ford vehicle will arrive in 2011, in the shape of a Focus, while the next generation hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles sourced from Ford will arrive in 2012. Sooner than that, the battery-electric Transit Connect will debut next year.

Ford will receive, as part of the development grants awarded yesterday, $62.7 million for producing a Ford electric-drive transaxle with integrated power electronics and $30 million to "accelerate the launch and commercialization of PHEVs and EVs by partnering with 15 of America's leading utilities."

“Ford is pleased that the Obama administration has recognized the substantial investment required to develop the technologies that will increase fuel efficiency and decrease greenhouse gas emissions,” Cischke added. “We appreciate the administration’s partnership in retooling plants, developing advanced technologies and supporting the domestic production of key components and batteries.”