When you hear about a hybrid powertrain, you probably think of an electric motor paired up with a traditional engine, right? While that basic fact holds true across most hybrids out there, it's important to note that not all hybrids are created equal. In fact, the next hybrid model to come from Ford, the C-Max, will feature what the company is calling their "next-generation" hybrid system.

With this new technology, Ford claims that the next hybrid to hit the market will not only be more efficient - it will be cheaper! How will it work? Well, to start, Ford doesn't just use one electric motor, they use two. One acts as a generator, and the other actually drives the car. In between the two, linked to the engine, is a gearset called a "torque-split device" that acts as a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and diverts or mixes power between the gasoline engine and the electric motor.

According to Ford, future versions of models like the Ford Fusion Hybrid, if equipped with the new technology "will cost 30 percent less."¹ Rumor also has it that the latest in green technology from Ford could premier as early as next year in the Ford C-Max, a compact minivan that recently premiered in Europe and has been retooled for the U.S. market.

Of course, you'll find a wide selection of powerful and efficient new Ford models at Robins Ford. Stop in and see us at 2060 Harbor Blvd Costa Mesa, CA 92627. Or drop us a line via our website to learn more about any particular Ford model in our inventory.

Source: ¹http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/11/new-hybrid-system-on-ford-c-max-hybrid-and-plug-in-will-be-cheaper-but-better.html