Mini Beachcomber Concept, 2010

Mini Beachcomber Concept, 2010

 

 

MINI Beachcomber Concept crosses borders, enters new dimensions of driving pleasure, and wins over additional target groups by expanding the model range and the creativity of MINI design. MINI demonstrates its potential for additional product lineup growth and further enhanced driving pleasure with the MINI Beachcomber Concept.
The MINI Beachcomber Concept is a four-seater concept car designed for maximum driving pleasure, incorporating key features of the new MINI and combining them with the vision of a radically open body concept.

The new all-wheel drive system, ALL4, and a flexible interior make the MINI Beachcomber Concept ideal for a spontaneous and active experience. It is designed without doors or a conventional roof, and all other body elements that could limit the intensity of the occupants' encounter with their surrounding world. This allows the driver and up to three passengers to connect with their surroundings - whether cruising through town, enjoying rough tracks in the mountains, or breezing along the beach. The vehicle's space concept, partnered with a modern drivetrain technology, ensures a highly emotional driving experience.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept combines all-wheel drive, cutting-edge suspension technology, and an elevated seating position. Generous spring travel and extra-large light-alloy wheels raise the entire car to a higher level. Access to the front and rear seats is convenient thanks to the open doorways. The entry cutouts extend all the way down to the seat bottoms, allowing the driver and all passengers to get in and out in one smooth and flowing process.
Mini Beachcomber Concept

The driver and passengers will enjoy everyday motoring conditions - simply because the MINI Beachcomber Concept retains its unmistakable character in all conditions. In the event of bad weather, drivers can either use the soft roof or the lightweight door and roof elements, all of which fit easily and can be installed within a few minutes.

MINI enters new terrain - with a fourth model and a complete range of innovative ideas for future.
Based on the MINI crossover vehicle that will be launched later this year in markets outside of North America, the MINI Beachcomber Concept is a symbol of the brand values packaged in a new, radical style.

Within the first decade of the MINI brand's re-launch, a fourth MINI model is set to enter the market. As a crossover in the typical style of the brand, the new model offers a new interpretation of the unique MINI design. With the functional convenience of four doors, four full-size seats, a flexible interior, a newly developed all-wheel-drive system and a high standard of driving pleasure, a MINI vehicle can now be enjoyed for the first time beyond the beaten path.

MINI designers were inspired by the new MINI crossover production model, which they enhanced beyond the realms of urban mobility to create the MINI Beachcomber Concept. In creating this concept, they utilized the technical qualities of the production crossover model, and made adaptations to offer the ultimate expression of freedom. The result is a new open concept driving experience for all your senses, plus a greater degree of versatility than ever experienced before in a MINI.

The potential uses for the MINI Beachcomber Concept are defined by the imagination of its driver. Clearly, the most natural surroundings for this vehicle are beaches, where the MINI Beachcomber Concept, through its enhanced traction and radically open design, offers the freedom of movement expressed through its very name.

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Mini Coupe Concept, 2009

Mini Coupe Concept, 2009

 

 

The Mini Coupe Concept is an expression of Mini design and the great ability of the brand's designers to fill the elementary values of the brand with new life, using the options of modern drivetrain and suspension technology, and developing fascinating perspectives for the future of the brand on this basis.

Presenting the concept of an uncompromisingly sporting two-seater to be seen for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show (17-27 September 2009), Mini is unveiling an unusually attractive vision of how the model family may well develop in future. The source of inspiration is once again the fundamental motive so characteristic of every Mini: driving pleasure. The Mini Coupe Concept therefore represents the ideal of a car destined in every respect to offer a thrilling experience and make every journey a truly unique thrill.

The Mini Coupe Concept brings together a wide range of features for a truly sporting and ambitious style of motoring. Limited to two seats and following a philosophy of consistent lightweight construction, the car clearly meets all the requirements made of a particularly active and dynamic coupé. Compact dimensions, perfect axle load distribution and a low centre of gravity offer ideal conditions for enhancing the agility typical of Mini to a level never seen before.

Through its design alone, the Mini Coupe Concept brings out all the thrill of individual mobility and the focus on pure driving pleasure. Powerful proportions and dynamic design language evoke a sense of desire and strong appeal, the Mini Coupe Concept offering a particularly undiluted expression of the brand through its sporting and unconventional stance on the road.

The Mini Coupe Concept: an invitation to enjoy spontaneous mobility.
With the growing model portfolio, the popularity of the Mini brand has also grown consistently in recent years. The Mini has moved beyond the restraints of urban mobility, opening up additional options and winning over new target groups. And Mini allows you to enjoy spontaneous mobility, sporting and agile handling and unmistakable style on virtually every occasion.

The current models in the range already meet the most varied demands. As individual characters in their own right, the Mini, Mini Clubman and Mini Convertible all offer a unique rendition of the driving experience so typical of the brand. And now the Mini Coupe Concept brings out driving pleasure in its most concentrated form, extreme lightweight technology making this two-seater particularly agile and unusually efficient. At the same time the low roofline, the precisely defined spoiler edge at the rear and other aerodynamic features enhance the car's performance to an even higher standard. So that in its design and in the use of high-performance drivetrain technology, the Mini Coupe Concept offers ideal conditions as a compact sports car in the premium segment.

This two-seater is designed to accommodate even the most powerful engine currently available in the Mini - and with the 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged power unit carried over from the Mini John Cooper Works, the Mini Coupe Concept offers truly outstanding performance. Maximum output is 155 kW/211 hp, peak torque 260 Newton-metres/192 lb-ft increasing through the Overboost function for a short while to an even more substantial 280 Newton-metres/206 lb-ft. And now the Mini Coupe Concept offers everything it takes to exceed even the supreme performance of the Mini John Cooper Works with this unique power unit.

At the same time this concept car clearly follows the BMW Group's EfficientDynamics development strategy. More driving pleasure, lower emissions - the Mini Coupe Concept lives out this philosophy expressed by Mini as MINIMALISM in a particularly attractive manner.

Fifty years of Mini: a vision of tomorrow marking an anniversary of today.
Fifty years after the launch of the classic Mini, the appeal of the brand is greater than ever before, with the model range exuding sheer fascination wherever you go. And now, in the anniversary year of the brand, Mini is bringing together this unique tradition and the successful model range offered today with even greater creativity and technical innovation for a truly promising future.

The Mini Coupe Concept is a further milestone in this ongoing development of the brand. The car takes up elementary strengths of the Mini and, through its modern technology and an innovative body concept, offers new standards and characteristics never seen before. So that the Mini Coupe Concept offers many new highlights in adding yet a further character to the existing model range.

Exterior design: the look typical of Mini but with individual character.
The body design of the Mini Coupe Concept also bridges the gap from the earliest days of the Mini's history all the way to the more distant future of the brand, emphasising the unique nature of the concept as well as its full membership in the Mini family. At the same time the individual and emotional design language arouses the expectation of a particularly thrilling experience on the road.

Especially at the front end of the car a number of icons typical of the brand, as well as the design style so characteristic of Mini, all come together to create a strong family resemblance. In addition, the individual look of the Mini Coupe Concept comes out also in the side view of the car as well as in the design of the rear end.

This unique new two-seater measures 3,714 millimetres (146.2") in length and 1,683 millimetres (66.3") in width. Height is 1,356 millimetres (53.4"). Through these dimensions and its athletic proportions alone, the Mini Coupe Concept stands out from the beginning as a compact and muscular sports machine.

The typical Mini look in particularly sporting style.
The new concept car carries over the unmistakable front end look from the four-seater Mini. Smoothly balanced contours on the engine lid characterised by wide and sweeping radii, the large headlights, the homogenous shape of the radiator grille and the wide lower air intake give each model that unique look, openness and charm so typical of the brand. Through the greater rake of the windscreen on the Mini Coupe Concept, the car looks even more striking and dynamic, the low and streamlined body proving clearly that the Mini Coupe Concept is a particularly outstanding performer.

The hexagon radiator grille and the large round headlights are unmistakable design features re-interpreting the front view of the classic Mini in particularly modern style. The direction indicators are integrated in the headlights, just above the innovative three-dimensional surrounds for the positioning lights and the foglamps. The entire front air dam has been adjusted to the sporting look of the car, standing out even wider and more striking than before.

The chrome radiator grille on the Mini Coupe Concept is the same as on the Mini Cooper S. The inner section in the grille is however finished with bars in body colour creating a clear sign of distinction at very first sight from the other members of the Mini family. The bonnet stripes also extend into the radiator grille to provide an even more sporting and dynamic touch.

With its very dynamic curvature and the stylised opening, bearing testimony to the power of the engine lurking within, the front lid likewise comes in the same look as on the particularly powerful versions of the Mini.

Individual roofline as a sign of sporting presence.
The side view of the Mini Coupe Concept also brings together features typical of the Mini family and new highlights in design to form a fascinating whole. The front side panels, for example, come straight from the Mini Convertible. The body joint forming the diagonal line characteristic of every Mini along the front lid and the surrounds on the front side indicators bearing out the style of the Mini Cooper S again provide an unmistakable sign of distinction with historic roots - here the classic Mini had a visible welding seam along the body.

The familiarity in design resulting from these features forms an attractive contrast to the far greater rake of the A-pillars leading into the brand-new, sweeping line of the roof.

Large wheels and a high waistline already give the Mini, the Mini Clubman and the Mini Convertible a particularly powerful and sporting look, with the black strip around the lower section of the body underlining this compact appearance and short body overhangs front and rear emphasising the athletic stature of the car and bearing testimony to that typical go-kart feeling at very first sight.

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Mindset E-Motion Concept, 2008

Mindset E-Motion Concept, 2008

 

 

 First pictures of the drivable prototype of mindset e-motion concept have been revealed. The prototype of the high-performance electric car was assembled by the French Heuliez Group.

The mindset e-motion drives locally emission-free for more than 100 km and reaches, due to an optional range extender which pro-duces electric energy by means of a combustion engine, a range of over 800km which is comparable to the range of conven-tional cars. The mindset e-motion distinguishes itself due to an out-standing appearance, low consumption and, additionally, exceptional user-friendliness.

A Spaceframe consisting of welded aluminium profiles provides the supporting elements. Attached to this Spaceframe there are fibre-enforced plastic components which make up the external panelling. The safety passenger cabin is part of the Spaceframe and consists of an extremely rigid construction around the entire occupant room. Furthermore, the safety of the passengers is increased by reinforcing profiles in the doors and across the vehicle, as well as by front airbags.

The standard make is a purely electric operated vehicle with space for two plus two persons or a generous, individually configurable rear compartment. In order to charge the battery, the vehicle can simply be plugged into a normal power socket.

The mindset e-motion concept provides nearly unlimited options. These include, for example, a range extender to increase the road coverage which can also be left in the garage if not needed, solar panels, an individually configurable interior space with extra niches or attachments required for specific purposes e.g. for golf bags, clothes, shopping, dogs etc.

Technical Specifications
    * Power train
          o Engine: High-performance electric motor
          o Maximum power output: 70 kW
          o Max. torque: 220 Nm
          o Gear box: Single speed
          o Battery technology: Lithium-Ion
          o Battery capacity: 20 kWh
    * Range Extender
          o Engine: Otto engine
          o Power output: 17 kW
          o Cubic capacity: 250 cm3
          o Fuel delivery: Electronic fuel injection
          o Fuel grade: Unleaded 95
          o Emission control: Three-way catalytic converter
    * Performance
          o CO2 emission with Range Extender: 79 g/km
          o Top speed: 140 km/h (electronically limited)
          o Acceleration 0-100 km/h: ~ 7 s
          o Range in electric mode: 100-200 km
          o Range with Range extender: >800 km
          o Charging time: 1-5h
    * Dimensions
          o Length: 4260 mm
          o Width: 1730 mm
          o Height: 1380 mm
          o Track: 1545 mm
          o Wheelbase: 2780 mm
          o Turning radius: 11 m
          o Unloaded weight: 800 kg
          o Cargo volume: 750 l
          o Seats available: 2+2
    * Suspension
          o Layout: Front wheel drive
          o Wheels: 4,5 J x 22
          o Tyres: 155/60 R 22
          o Front suspension: McPherson
          o Rear suspension: Multi-link suspension
    * Brake system
          o Brakes: 4 disc brake, ABS/Traction Control System ESP
          o Electric: Braking energy recuperation

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MG TF, 2010

MG TF, 2010

 

 

In the summer of 2009, two new MGs were being launched to join the highly successful MG TF LE500; the affordable MG TF 135 and a unique new MG that is being produced to mark the 85th Anniversary of the brand, the MG TF 85th Anniversary.

Jack Safiruddin, Sales & Aftersales Operations Manager for MG, said. "With summer kicking in, the launch of two new cars and our recent scrappage announcement regarding a £2000 reduction on the price of a new MG, the next few months will be a very tempting time for customers to get the new sports car they have always wanted."

New Entry Level MG TF 135
The greatly anticipated MG TF 135 will be launched shortly and is sure to appeal to motorists who want sports car fun at a highly competitive price. Good levels of trim and equipment including a Clarion ICE system, combine with a price tag that will broaden its appeal and bring it within the budget of many more people. The TF 135 will hit showrooms shortly, offering all the fun and appeal of a convertible sports car at a highly affordable £13,511 OTR.

Unique Anniversary Car
A unique MG TF is being launched to mark the 85th Anniversary of the MG brand. The MGTF 85th Anniversary will be a great looking car with fantastic handling.

Available in three special colours overlaid with striking graphics and a new design of alloy wheel, from the outside the car looks sensational. The cabin is stunning too as the specialist graphics continue with monogrammed sill finishers and gear knob which complement new stylish Aubergine leather trim and a high quality ICE system.

Apart from the stunning look, the new TF 85th Anniversary model also benefits from a ride and handling package that's tuned to make this car unique to drive. Bilstein suspension, Eibach anti roll system, lower ride height, an all new anti torsion pack and a modified wheel set up on Rimstock 'Twisted Pepper' style wheels give the 85th Anniversary edition a grown up feel and very precise handling at high speeds.


This car will be launched at £15,664 on the road which, again, after the Government's scrappage scheme deduction will make the TF 85th a competitive £13,664.

The New MG Family
With the fully loaded and highly specified MG TF LE500, the extremely affordable MG TF 135 and the tightly handling MG 85th Anniversary, MG now offers a family of cars that give existing owners looking for something new, as well as prospective customers who just want to enjoy British mid engined, top down sports car driving, some real choices.

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MG TF LE500, 2008

MG TF LE500, 2008

 

The MG TF LE500, a profoundly re-engineered version of the last TF to be produced in the Midlands in 2005, boasts a host of improvements that have bought the new car up to date and equipped the new MG to regain its long held position as the best selling sports car in Britain.

With numerous technical and cosmetic innovations the MG TF LE500 comes with a new N series engine, a new interior, revamped exterior styling and updated suspension, and braking systems. Whilst maintaining the fundamental look and feel of the immensely popular TF, the LE500 has been completely re-engineered, with the assistance of the company's research, design and development department in Leamington Spa.

Building on the strengths of MG's 84 year pedigree and the popularity of the TF, the MG TF LE500 has already gained plaudits for its superior build quality, specification and finish. It is the specification of the new car that will set it apart from its rivals, as the LE package includes many of the optional extras available on former generations with a number of contemporary additions.

Exterior Styling
As you approach the car, the difference in styling is immediately obvious with a new look for the grille and bumper. The reshaping is designed to be more sympathetic to the overall look of the TF with more finesse and shape than its predecessor.

The MG TF LE500 comes in a range of six new colours with a body colour matched hard top as standard. The hard top benefits from a glass rear window which means winter motoring is much more comfortable, whilst maintaining the flexibility of enjoying the soft top in summer.

Interior
As you sit in the car the environment exudes quality. The piano black trim, leather upholstery and chrome detail give the cabin a retro feel. MG has worked hard to maintain levels of comfort and finish that will make the new MG appeal to the widest spectrum of drivers.

As you recline in the leather sports seats the wheel and controls sit easily at hand and the redesigned instruments add to the overall feel that you are sitting in an authentic British Sports car. The previously analogue instrument pack has been replaced with an electronic control pack, giving the car more functionality and a great look.
Between the seats is the unique 500 LE badging, a detail that completes a highly specified, exclusive but most of all fundamentally MG interior.

New N Series Engine
The only mid-engined sports car in its class, the LE 500 is engineered to deliver a thoroughbred British sports car driving experience. So it comes equipped with a new Variable Valve Control N series engine. This EU4 compliant 1.8 litre 135 ps power pack will push the MG LE500 from 0-60 in 8.3 seconds and give it a top speed of 127mph//205km/h.

The N series engine has a newly designed multi layered steel cylinder head gasket and an upgraded oil rail, that allows an increase in the clamping load, and an enhanced cooling system; all improvements that result in a much more robust engine.

Steering, Suspension & Brakes
The MG TF LE500 inherits the upgraded suspension of the most recent TF but benefits from a modified steering geometry, a new coil spring and damper suspension and a multi link rear axle to give the new car improved white lining and bump steer resulting in a more assured ride.
Up-graded brakes house a four pot system with vented discs that stop the car much faster, complementing the new suspension set up and emphasising the sports car handling and feel.

Handling and Feel
The re-engineering of the key driving components of the new MG TF LE500 delivers a mid-engined sports car that is the epitome of the marque's legendary passion for fun as well as a rewarding road driving experience. The handling of the car offers levels of driver involvement that not only connect you with the road but that make the new car a practical and suitable choice for year round driving. This mix is specifically aimed at customers looking to get back some of the exhilaration that has been lost from this class of affordable sports car.

Highly specified for better value
The specification of this car is a final element that will make it appeal to the value conscious consumer it is designed to woo. To select a few elements from the long list you will find; Pioneer audio setup with MP3, twin airbags, air conditioning, passive engine immobilisation with a perimetric alarm, rear parking sensors ABS brakes and speed sensitive power assisted steering.

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Mercury Milan Hybrid, 2010

Mercury Milan Hybrid, 2010

 

 

For the 2010 model year, the Mercury Milan adds an all-new hybrid model. The Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid join the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Hybrids, doubling both the size and volume of Ford's hybrid lineup.
The Ford Hybrid team has developed a powertrain system that combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver the optimal experience for the customer in terms of driving performance and fuel economy.

Additionally, the propulsion system for the Mercury Milan Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid transitions between gas and electric power and back more efficiently and seamlessly.
The overall system upgrade allows the Mercury Milan Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid to operate longer at higher speeds in electric mode. The hybrid vehicles can operate up to 47 mph in pure electric mode, approximately twice as fast as some competitors. Plus, the city driving range on a single tank of gas is expected to be more than 700 miles.

The next-generation hybrid system features:
    * New 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (155 horsepower/136 lb.-ft. of torque) running the proven Atkinson cycle mated to an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission or e-CVT.
    * Intake Variable Cam Timing (iVCT), which allows the vehicle to more seamlessly transition from gas to electric mode and vice-versa. The spark and cam timing are varied according to the engine load to optimize efficiency and emissions.
    * Enhanced electronic throttle control reduces airflow on shutdowns, reducing fueling needs on restarts.
    * A wide-band lambda sensor analyzes the air-fuel ratio and adjusts the lean/rich mixture accordingly to keep the system in balance and to minimize emissions.
    * A new smaller, lighter nickel-metal hydride battery has been optimized to produce 20 percent more power. Improved chemistry allows the battery to be run at a higher temperature and it is cooled using cabin air.
    * An added variable voltage converter boosts the voltage to the traction battery to operate the motor and generator more efficiently.
    * A new high-efficiency converter provides 14 percent increased output to accommodate a wider array of vehicle features.
    * Smarter climate control system monitors cabin temperature and only runs the gas engine as needed to heat the cabin; it also includes an electric air conditioning compressor to further minimize engine use and maximize comfort.
    * The regenerative brake system captures the energy normally lost through friction in braking and stores it. Nearly 94 percent energy recovery is achieved by first delivering full regenerative braking followed by friction brakes during city driving.
    * A simulator brake actuation system dictates brake actuation and delivers improved brake pedal feel compared to the previous generation braking system.

The Mercury Milan Hybrid also offers drivers a way to be more connected to the hybrid driving experience thanks to Ford's SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster execution that helps coach them on how to optimize performance of their hybrid.

SmartGauge with EcoGuide features two, high-resolution, full-color liquid crystal display (LCD) screens on either side of the analog speedometer that can be configured to show different levels of information, including fuel and battery power levels, average and instant miles-per-gallon. Growing leaves and vines track and reward the driver's efficiency.

EcoGuide uses a multi-layered approach to coach the driver to maximum fuel efficiency. A tutorial mode built into the display that helps the driver learn about the instrument cluster and the hybrid in a whimsical way that does not overpower.

For instance, drivers can choose one of four data screens to choose the information level displayed during their drives. They are:
    * Inform: Fuel level and battery charge status
    * Enlighten: Adds electric vehicle mode indicator and tachometer
    * Engage: Adds engine output power and battery output power
    * Empower: Adds power to wheels, engine pull-up threshold and accessory power consumption

All levels can show instant fuel economy, fuel economy history, odometer, engine coolant temperature, what gear the car is in and trip data (trip fuel economy, time-elapsed fuel economy and miles to empty). The engine coolant temperature indicator turns green when engine conditions are warm enough to allow engine pull-down.

Several other elements help differentiate the Mercury Milan Hybrid from its gas-powered sibling, including unique hybrid "road and leaf" badging on both sides and the rear of the vehicle; unique 17-inch, eight-spoke wheels; eco-friendly seat fabric made from post-industrial 100 percent recycled materials; and a standard 110-volt power outlet.

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Mercury Milan, 2010

Mercury Milan, 2010

 

The Mercury Milan builds on a strong foundation of quality and reliability, adding to the mix for the 2010 model year an all-new hybrid model, more fuel-efficient gasoline powertrain options, class-exclusive technologies and a more refined, sophisticated design.

The changes to the exterior design were focused on the grille, fenders, hood, and front and rear fascias. The chin was pulled forward and the fascia was pulled down to give the 2010 Mercury Milan a wider, sportier look. Those changes as well as substantial underbody work made for a cleaner, more aerodynamic car.

With all models, the interior design team created a more contemporary, technical look with metallic new finishes on the instrument panel that carry through on the center console, doors and steering wheel. The all new instrument panel is finished with a soft upper and lower skin and has much less hard plastic than Japanese competitors. A redesigned leather wrapped steering wheel with form fitting palm swells, and new shifter, and wrapped and padded armrests have been added, increasing the Milan's sportiness and comfort at all key driver touch points.

The seats received a makeover, as well. The seat contour has been revised, with more side support and overall a more comfortable seat with smoother bolsters and more-textural inserts. The seats also feature contrasting stitching and leather inserts to give the Mercury Milan even more attitude, befitting this mid-size sedan.

The gauge cluster has been designed with day time backlighting, a black lens, and 3-D elements to create a high tech jewel-like appearance, similar to a fine watch. Drivers will be greeted by a new "welcome" sequence that makes the Mercury Milan seem as if it's coming to life.
Gauge needles sweep back and forth as the lighting and new chimes come on. The ambient lighting system offers the option of illuminating the front and rear footwells and front cup holders.

The two-tone look on the interior continues as a Mercury Milan signature, with satin-aluminum accents and a wood finish around the center stack. The Milan features Dark Charcoal Black, Medium Light Stone and Camel as interior choices through the Premier Series, which includes embossed leather.

An improved seat design with a new perforation pattern has been added as well. The seat contour itself was revised, with more side support to help create a softer seat overall.

All-new hybrid model
For the 2010 model year, the Mercury Milan adds an all-new hybrid model. The Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid join the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Hybrids, doubling both the size and volume of Ford's hybrid lineup.
The Ford Hybrid team has developed a powertrain system that combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver the optimal experience for the customer in terms of driving performance and fuel economy.

Additionally, the propulsion system for the Mercury Milan Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid transitions between gas and electric power and back more efficiently and seamlessly.

The overall system upgrade allows the Mercury Milan Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid to operate longer at higher speeds in electric mode. The hybrid vehicles can operate up to 47 mph in pure electric mode, approximately twice as fast as some competitors. Plus, the city driving range on a single tank of gas is expected to be more than 700 miles.

The next-generation hybrid system features:
    * New 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (155 horsepower/136 lb.-ft. of torque) running the proven Atkinson cycle mated to an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission or e-CVT.
    * Intake Variable Cam Timing (iVCT), which allows the vehicle to more seamlessly transition from gas to electric mode and vice-versa. The spark and cam timing are varied according to the engine load to optimize efficiency and emissions.
    * Enhanced electronic throttle control reduces airflow on shutdowns, reducing fueling needs on restarts.
    * A wide-band lambda sensor analyzes the air-fuel ratio and adjusts the lean/rich mixture accordingly to keep the system in balance and to minimize emissions.
    * A new smaller, lighter nickel-metal hydride battery has been optimized to produce 20 percent more power. Improved chemistry allows the battery to be run at a higher temperature and it is cooled using cabin air.
    * An added variable voltage converter boosts the voltage to the traction battery to operate the motor and generator more efficiently.
    * A new high-efficiency converter provides 14 percent increased output to accommodate a wider array of vehicle features.
    * Smarter climate control system monitors cabin temperature and only runs the gas engine as needed to heat the cabin; it also includes an electric air conditioning compressor to further minimize engine use and maximize comfort.
    * The regenerative brake system captures the energy normally lost through friction in braking and stores it. Nearly 94 percent energy recovery is achieved by first delivering full regenerative braking followed by friction brakes during city driving.
    * A simulator brake actuation system dictates brake actuation and delivers improved brake pedal feel compared to the previous generation braking system.

The Mercury Milan Hybrid also offers drivers a way to be more connected to the hybrid driving experience thanks to Ford's SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster execution that helps coach them on how to optimize performance of their hybrid.

SmartGauge with EcoGuide features two, high-resolution, full-color liquid crystal display (LCD) screens on either side of the analog speedometer that can be configured to show different levels of information, including fuel and battery power levels, average and instant miles-per-gallon. Growing leaves and vines track and reward the driver's efficiency.

EcoGuide uses a multi-layered approach to coach the driver to maximum fuel efficiency. A tutorial mode built into the display that helps the driver learn about the instrument cluster and the hybrid in a whimsical way that does not overpower.

Read more...