The first patent will protect the EcoGuide, a technology which helps the driver keep informed on how much fuel the car is burning depending on short-term driving habits, while the second will cover the power threshold gauge, which tells the drivers how to change those driving habits to be more fuel efficient.
“Increasing gas prices have people paying more attention to the fuel economy a vehicle offers, but rarely do they look at their own driving habits to help boost miles per gallon,” said David Watson, research engineer and part inventor of SmartGauge with EcoGuide. “These patents are a symbol of Ford’s commitment to finding ways to positively change driving behaviors to help maximize fuel efficiency.”
Through a 4.3-inch full-color LCD, the system, already fitted into several Ford models (like the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid), is used to monitor both the fuel levels and the rate at which they drop, in the case of conventional cars, and the battery charge status, in case of the hybrids.
The findings of the system are sent back through the driver with graphic displays on the aforementioned LCD, with growing leaves and vines tracking and rewarding a driver’s efficient way of driving.
Impressive or not, the SmartGauge with EcoGuide might be just the thing drivers needed to shave a few gallons from their bill at the pump, especially in these dire times for all car owners.
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