Ford to Use Hybrid Start-Stop on Conventional Cars, Crossovers

American carmaker Ford will use the auto start-stop technology it initially implemented on its gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles on future North American versions of its cars and utilities to be rolled out in 2012. The feature is already available on a number of models in Europe, being offered as standard equipment on Ford Ka and Mondeo ECOnetic. In North America however, it will debut in 2012 and, according to the manufacturer, will make it to all global markets in the next few years.

In Ford's domestic market, the auto start-stop technology will be available on petrol models and commercial vehicles equipped with either a manual or an automatic transmission, but also on those vehicles that feature Ford's dual-clutch six-speed automatic unit.

"For the driver, Ford Auto Start-Stop provides extra fuel efficiency without inconvenience, as it works completely automatically," said Barb Samardzich, Ford vice president of Powertrain engineering. "And, just like in our hybrid vehicles, the heater, and air conditioner work as normal so drivers will not sacrifice comfort."

"Many of the same Ford engineers who designed the Auto Start Stop system used on Ford and Lincoln hybrids are developing the Auto Start-Stop system for non-hybrid vehicles that will be sold around the globe," added Samardzich.

If we trust Ford's numbers, the auto start-stop function can improve fuel economy by up to 10 percent in certain conditions, while keeping emissions to zero when the car is not in motion and the system is working.

"Our hybrid owners tell us that start-stop is one of their favorite features," said Birgit Sorgenfrei, program manager for Auto Start-Stop. "When the engine is off, they know they are saving fuel and reducing emissions. Ford's start-stop technology conserves fuel and eliminates emissions at every vehicle idle opportunity once customer comfort and convenience are assured – this is good for the environment."