FORD ELECTRIC VEHICLE PLAN OFFERS REAL CHOICE WITH NEW FOCUS ELECTRIC, C-MAX ENERGI AND C-MAX HYBRID

•Ford is showcasing three new electric models as part of a customer choice-driven strategy, led by the all-new Ford Focus Electric, which will debut in the U.S. in late 2011

•Ford will launch the C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid electric vehicle and C-MAX Hybrid in 2012 in North America and in 2013 in Europe. Both will use the company's critically acclaimed powersplit hybrid architecture and advanced lithium-ion battery systems; C-MAX Energi will deliver better charge-sustaining fuel economy than the Chevrolet Volt

•Ford's electrified vehicles are just one part of a broad commitment to delivering top fuel efficiency with every vehicle and providing affordable fuel efficiency for millions of customers

•Ford is on track to bring five new electrified vehicles to North America by 2012 and Europe by 2013. Ease of use and an engaging ownership experience is a key part of the strategy

Differentiating itself with an electrification strategy that emphasizes customer choice, Ford is introducing a family of electrified vehicles – including its first all-electric passenger sedan, the all-new Focus Electric.

The debut of C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid at the 2011 North American International Auto Show, on the heels of the newly unveiled Focus Electric, builds on Ford's electrified vehicle portfolio, bringing expanded choice to customers and further strengthening the company's sustainability strategy.

The fuel-free, all-electric rechargeable Focus Electric passenger car will launch in North America in late 2011 and Europe in 2012. The C-MAX Energi is the company's first-ever plug-in hybrid production electric vehicle that comes to market beginning in 2012, targeting AT-PZEV (Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) status. The C-MAX Hybrid is a next-generation full hybrid version of the five-passenger multi-activity vehicle.

The new-generation Ford electrified vehicles introduce new features and technologies – led by a unique version of the MyFord Touch™ driver connect system especially for electric vehicles, a new value charging feature powered by Microsoft and, for North America, a smartphone app called MyFord Mobile that helps plug-in owners control their vehicles remotely.

'By providing a variety of electrified vehicles, we are making it easier for our customers to embrace this fuel-saving technology,' said Bill Ford, executive chairman, Ford Motor Company. 'This strategy is true to our heritage of making innovative technology available to as many people as possible and to our vision of developing great products, building a strong business and contributing to a better world.'

Ford electric trio

The three new Ford electrified products build on Ford's experience as America's top domestic producer of electrified vehicles with 140,000 hybrid products on the road today:

•Focus Electric – Based on the all-new Ford Focus mainstream vehicle, the Focus Electric will offer adequate range to cover the majority of daily driving habits plus a mile-per-gallon equivalent better than Chevrolet Volt and competitive with other battery electric vehicles. It will charge in half the time of a Nissan Leaf

C-MAX Energi

•C-MAX Energi – Based on the new Ford C-MAX five-passenger multi-activity vehicle, the C-MAX Energi targets more than 500 miles of driving range using the battery and engine. It delivers better charge-sustaining fuel economy than the Chevrolet Volt

•C-MAX Hybrid – The full hybrid variant of C-MAX is targeted to deliver better fuel economy than Ford Fusion Hybrid, the most fuel-efficient sedan in America. It also leverages the company's powersplit hybrid architecture and uses a lighter, smaller lithium-ion battery system

The three new models leverage Ford's global C-car platform and will be built alongside the all-new Ford Focus at the company's Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich., with production powered in part by one of the largest solar energy generator systems in the state. Ford will build the new C-MAX Energi and Hybrid models for European markets at its plant in Valencia, Spain, as previously announced.

Ford's rollout of five new hybrid and electric passenger vehicles began in December with the first deliveries of its 2011 Ford Transit Connect Electric – a small commercial van built in collaboration with Azure Dynamics. Ford will round out its lineup of new electrified vehicles in North America and Europe with another next-generation hybrid vehicle, in 2012 and 2013, respectively, which will be named later.

'Ford's plan to deliver a full range of exciting, energy-efficient vehicles is on track and fully charged,' said Sherif Marakby, director of Ford's electrification programs and engineering. 'Focus Electric, C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid demonstrate Ford's commitment to delivering significant fuel economy gains and reduced CO2 emissions to meet our customers' functional needs without compromising their driving enjoyment.'

Proven performance

Ford's next-generation hybrid, plug-in hybrid and all-electric vehicles will build on the company's success with its Fusion Hybrid and Escape Hybrid – America's most fuel-efficient midsize sedan and most fuel-efficient SUV, respectively. The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid joined the North American lineup last fall and is the most fuel-efficient luxury car in America. In total, Ford has more than 140,000 hybrid vehicles on the road to date.

'One technology does not work for all customers – hybrids, plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles each offer distinctly different advantages,' said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president of Global Product Development. 'By leveraging our global platforms, we are able to offer our customers more choices of electrified solutions as part of a fuel-efficient product lineup.'

Ford is designing its electric vehicles to provide outstanding fuel efficiency with no compromise on driving enjoyment. Smooth regenerative braking, confident acceleration, a comfortable interior and smart driver information features helped earn the Fusion Hybrid the 2010 MOTOR TREND Car of the Year® award and a place on many best green car lists.

'More than any other electric vehicle on the market, Focus Electric loses none of the dynamics and driving quality of a traditional car Marakby. 'They share many of the same high-quality components as their gasoline- and diesel-powered counterparts, while delivering excellent fuel economy and no-compromise driving enjoyment.'

The lithium-ion advantage

Focus Electric and upcoming hybrid/plug-in hybrid vehicles will use advanced lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery systems. Each system is smartly designed to maximize use of common, high-quality components, such as control board hardware that has proven field performance in Ford's critically acclaimed hybrid vehicles.

Li-ion battery packs offer a number of advantages over the nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries that power today's hybrid vehicles. In general, they are 25 to 30 percent smaller and 50 percent lighter, making them easier to package in a vehicle, and can be tuned to increase power to boost acceleration, or to increase energy to extend driving distance.

Future owners of Focus Electric will recharge their vehicle's on-board Li-ion battery packs using the recommended 240-volt wall-mounted charge station that will be sold separately or the 120-volt convenience cord that comes with the vehicle. Focus Electric customers are likely to recharge the gas-free vehicle daily.

Daily charging is recommended for C-MAX Energi as well to maximize the use of electric driving mode, but is not necessary for vehicle operation. Thanks to the efficiencies of its battery system, the plug-in hybrid easily recharges 100 percent overnight on a standard household power outlet. C-MAX Hybrid requires no charging.

Taking charge

Owners of the new Focus Electric and the C-MAX Energi will enjoy advantages when it comes to charging their vehicles.

A full recharge of the Focus Electric is expected to take three to four hours at home with the 240-volt charge station –half the time as the Nissan Leaf. When fully charged, Focus Electric is designed to offer adequate range to cover the majority of daily driving habits of most motorists. The Focus Electric will offer a better miles-per-gallon equivalent than Chevrolet Volt and competitive with other battery electric vehicles.

C-MAX Energi will deliver better charge-sustaining fuel economy than the Chevrolet Volt. The C-MAX Energi will achieve more than 500 miles (800 kilometers) of overall driving range using battery and engine – more than any other plug-in or extended-range electric vehicle. Charging the plug-in hybrid vehicle allows customers to significantly increase their driving in all-electric mode and drastically reduce their use of the on-board gas engine.

When the cord set connector is plugged into the Focus Electric or C-MAX Energi charge port, which is conveniently located between the driver's door and front wheel well, it activates a light ring that loops around the port twice in acknowledgement of connectivity. The light ring then illuminates in quadrants as the vehicle charges. Flashing quadrants represent charge in progress and solid-lit quadrants show stages of charge completion. When the entire ring is solidly lit, the vehicle is fully charged.

A smarter gauge – MyFord Touch for EVs

Focus Electric and C-MAX Energi also will feature a suite of smart driver information systems – led by a unique version of the MyFord Touch driver connect system – designed to help vehicle owners maximize fuel efficiency, extend electric range, plan the most eco-friendly route and manage the battery recharge process. This is a key part of the Ford strategy to make electrified vehicle ownership a real experience for customers.

C-MAX Hybrid also will leverage some of these same technologies to help drivers get more miles per gallon.

In Ford's next-generation hybrids, the MyFord Touch system has been enhanced with thoughtful features especially for the electric vehicle experience. Its dual-display digital instrument cluster can be configured by the driver to show different levels of information, including fuel and battery power levels, as well as average and instant miles per gallon.

The cluster's new MyView feature allows drivers to access even more vehicle data such as the electrical demands of vehicle accessories including air conditioning, which influences fuel economy and the electric driving range of Focus Electric and C-MAX Energi.

Focus Electric owners will have access to basic data, such as battery state of charge, distance to charge point, the corresponding budget and expected range surplus, which are all easily visible on the two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens flanking the centrally mounted speedometer. It offers unrivaled possibilities for personalization.

In Ford's next-generation hybrids – as in its current hybrids – long-term fuel efficiency is displayed in two ways, either as a traditional chart or using an innovative display that shows a growing leafy vine on the right side of the cluster. The more efficient a customer is, the more lush and beautiful the leaves and vines, creating a unique visual reward for the driver's efforts.

Similarly, the display in Focus Electric uses blue butterflies to represent the surplus range beyond one's charge point destination – the more there are, the greater the range. Ford designers were inspired by the phenomenon known as 'the butterfly effect,' in which a small change, like choosing to drive an EV, can have an enormous impact.

When each trip is completed, the Focus Electric MyFord Touch screens come alive to inform the driver about fuel saved, energy reclaimed through regenerative braking and charge information.

Remote control

Off-board, Focus Electric and C-MAX Energi owners in North America can maintain constant contact with the car anywhere they have mobile phone or web access using the Ford-developed MyFord Mobile app.

MyFord Mobile enables customers – via a smartphone/feature phone app or secure Ford website – to get instant vehicle status information, perform key functions remotely, monitor the car's state of charge and current range, get alerts when it requires charging, remotely program charge settings and download vehicle data for analysis.

The feature also allows the owner to program the vehicle to use electricity from the grid to heat or cool the battery and cabin while plugged in. For example, during hot summer months, owners can preprogram the car the evening before to be fully charged – and fully cooled to a particular temperature – by a certain time the following morning. Users can also locate the vehicle with GPS, remotely start the vehicle and remotely lock and unlock the car doors.

Working with MapQuest®, MyFord Mobile can communicate charge station and other points of interest to Focus Electric using SYNC's Traffic, Directions and Information (TDI). Turn-by-turn guidance is provided by SYNC or through the in-car map-based Navigation System where available. Drivers can also get up-to-date charging station information in their vehicle directly through SYNC TDI simply by connecting to SYNC Services.

A value charging feature, powered by Microsoft, allows Ford customers to reduce their electricity costs by taking advantage of off-peak or other reduced rates from their utility without a complicated set-up process.

Microsoft-powered value charging is an all-new feature uniquely offered by Ford.

by Ford

Ford Supercharges Electric Vehicle Plan, Bringing New C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid Products to European Markets

• Ford will launch C-MAX Energi, its first-ever production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, and C-MAX Hybrid, a full hybrid variant, in North America in 2012 and Europe in 2013

• Both versions of the five-passenger multi-activity vehicle will leverage the company's global C-car platform, critically acclaimed powersplit hybrid architecture, next-generation driver information features and advanced, lighter and smaller lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery systems

• C-MAX Hybrid is a medium-sized multi-activity vehicle (MAV) with automatic transmission functionality and is targeted to deliver superior fuel economy and CO2 emissions versus conventional petrol competitors.

• C-MAX Energi targets more than 800 kilometres (500 miles) of driving range using the battery and engine.

March 1, 2011 – Ford is bringing hybrid electric vehicles to Europe, introducing first the C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. It will go on sale in Europe together with the C-MAX Hybrid in 2013. Both are based on the Ford C-MAX five-passenger multi-activity vehicle and will offer low fuel consumption and emissions as well as distinctive body design and a flexible interior.

Ford has drawn on its long-term experience with hybrid technology in the North American markets - it introduced the Escape Hybrid in 2004 - and developed the all-new C MAX Hybrid and C MAX Energi on its new global C-car platform, bringing consumers more choice, versatility and style for family-friendly vehicles.

Both the plug-in hybrid and third-generation full hybrid not only leverage this global platform, but also Ford's acclaimed powersplit architecture, next-generation driver information features and advanced lithium-ion battery systems.

'C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid will be perfect for families looking to maximize their hybrid car experience,' said Nancy Gioia, Ford director of Global Electrification. 'Thanks to the versatile interior, these cars are going to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers who need room to grow.'

C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi will reach new levels of fuel consumption for petrol powered vehicles, building on the success of the critically acclaimed powersplit architecture Ford uses in its current hybrids available on the US market, allowing it to operate in fuel-saving electric mode beyond 75 km/h (47 mph).

Both the C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid vehicles to be sold in Europe will be built at Ford's plant in Valencia, Spain, starting in 2013.

The plug-in advantage

C-MAX Energi provides maximum fuel efficiency by pairing a high-voltage lithium-ion battery and electric traction motor with a high-efficiency Atkinson-cycle petrol engine. This allows it to run in electric mode before using the petrol engine.

In total, C-MAX Energi will offer more than 800 kilometres (500 miles) of overall driving range using the battery and engine – more than any other plug-in or extended-range electric vehicle.

In general, plug-in hybrid vehicles offer several benefits, including:

• Electric driving range, perfect for emissions-free and silent city driving

• Potential consumer savings on energy and fuel costs thanks to improved fuel efficiency over a standard hybrid

• Increased use of electricity from renewable energy sources (e.g. wind and solar), where available, for vehicle recharging

• Reduced environmental impact through reductions in greenhouse gas emissions

• Reduced dependency on petroleum and increased energy independence

'A plug-in hybrid owner may make fewer trips to the pump to refuel because of its all-electric mode capability,' said Derrick Kuzak, Ford vice president of Global Product Development. 'Conveniently, they'll be able to recharge their plug-in hybrid at home overnight. And they'll never have to think about the vehicle's electric range, because the plug-in hybrid seamlessly shifts to fuel power when needed.'

The development of Ford's first-ever production plug-in hybrid leverages more than 300,000 km of road testing with the Escape Hybrid Plug-In demonstration vehicles conducted in collaboration with a coalition of 10 utility companies, the U.S. Department of Energy, the New York State Energy Research and Development Administration and the Electric Power Research Institute.

Getting charged up

C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid will use advanced lithium-ion battery systems developed and assembled in-house by Ford in North America. Each system is smartly designed to maximise the use of common, high-quality components, such as control board hardware that has proven field performance in Ford's current, critically acclaimed hybrid vehicles. Ford has been selling hybrid vehicles in the US since 2004.

Li-ion battery packs offer a number of advantages over the nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries that power today's hybrid vehicles. In general, they are 25 to 30 per cent smaller and 50 per cent lighter, which makes them easier to package in a vehicle, and can be tuned to increase power to boost acceleration or to increase energy to extend driving distance.

While C-MAX Hybrid will operate much like today's hybrid vehicles, C-MAX Energi will benefit from daily charging to maximise its all-electric range. Thanks to the efficiencies of its right-sized battery system, the plug-in hybrid easily recharges 100 per cent overnight on a 230-volt outlet.

A full charge in C MAX Energi allows owners to increase their driving significantly in all-electric mode and drastically reduce their use of the on-board fuel engine.

On start-up, C-MAX Energi will operate in charge-depletion mode, providing electric driving range. When the battery has been depleted or certain conditions are met, it switches to charge-sustaining hybrid mode for continued optimal fuel efficiency. Pure E-mode can also be chosen via a button, with a limited top speed of max. 70 km/h for a range, which will match the daily city commuting distances.

Ford worked with a supplier to provide an industry-standard five-point plug for C-MAX Energi (and new Focus Electric) that is ergonomically comfortable to hold as well as durable and distinctively designed. The plug handle uses a matte-finished black rubber for a comfortable, non-slip grip and the plug head is shielded with a glossy white hard plastic to protect the electronics. The Ford Blue Oval trademark helps make the device immediately recognisable.

When the cord set connector is plugged into the vehicle's charge port, which is located conveniently between the driver's door and front wheel well, it activates a light ring that loops around the port twice in acknowledgement of connectivity. The light ring then illuminates in quadrants as the vehicle charges. Flashing quadrants represent charge in progress and solid-lit quadrants show stages of charge completion. When the entire ring is solidly lit, the vehicle is fully charged.

Smarter interface

C-MAX Energi owners will have access to a suite of driver information systems designed to help them manage the recharge process, manage the most eco-friendly route, monitor battery state of charge and maximize energy efficiency to extend use of electric mode.

Among these tools is a unique execution of MyFord Touch™ driver connect technology, especially for electrified driving. It offers exceptional configurability of vehicle information, including fuel level, battery power level, and average and instant fuel consumption.

The cluster's new MyView feature allows drivers to access even more vehicle data such as the electrical demands of vehicle accessories, including air conditioning, which influences fuel economy and the electric driving range of the C-MAX Energi.

The Brake Coach feature helps to educate drivers to optimize their use of the regenerative brakes to recapture kinetic energy and send it back to the battery, also reducing wear on the brakes.

Long-term fuel efficiency can be displayed in two ways – either as a traditional chart or using an innovative display that shows a growing leafy vine on the right side of the cluster. The more efficient a customer is, the more lush and beautiful the leaves and vines become, creating a unique visual reward for the driver's efforts.

To reinforce the message, at the end of each trip a display screen provides distance driven, miles gained through regenerative braking, fuel consumed (average and total) and a regenerative braking score.

Value charging, powered by Microsoft

Using the value charging feature, powered by Microsoft, C-MAX Energi owners in North America will be able to optimise their home's energy use and vehicle recharging practices. Value charging allows Ford customers to reduce their electricity costs by taking advantage of off-peak or reduced rates from their utility without a complicated set-up process.

In Europe Ford is currently in negotiations with several power suppliers to prepare the market for the introduction of a smart charging system compatible to their systems.

Proven powersplit technology

C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid build on the success of the critically acclaimed powersplit architecture Ford uses in its current hybrids in North America. Ford has sold more than 160,000 full hybrids since the introduction of the Escape Hybrid - the first hybrid SUV to be available on the US market - which has been followed by the Ford Fusion Hybrid, winner of the 2010 MOTOR TREND Car of the Year® award.

In a powersplit hybrid, the electric motor and petrol engine can work together or separately to maximise efficiency. The engine can also operate independently of vehicle speed, charging the batteries or providing power to the wheels as needed. The motor alone can provide sufficient power to the wheels in low-speed, low-load conditions, and work with the engine at higher speeds.

While this system enables the current Fusion Hybrid to operate in fuel-saving electric mode up to 75 km/h (47 mph), Ford is targeting higher electric operating speeds for C-MAX Hybrid and even more capability for C-MAX Energi, which will have the advantage of additional battery power.

Ford's global C-car strategy

C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid are just two of at least 10 new models or derivatives that Ford will launch around the world based on its new global C-car platform – Ford's first truly global One Ford platform.

Ford's new generation of C-segment vehicles will be sold in more than 120 markets and will account for more than 2 million units annually. The C-segment accounts for one in four cars sold worldwide today and, in conjunction with the B-segment, is expected to rise to 50 per cent of all cars sold globally by 2013.

The all-new C-MAX line up also introduces a number of advanced new technologies to the compact multi-activity vehicle class. More often found only on larger or more premium cars, these technologies are focused on enhanced comfort, safety and sustainability, including the availability of new and powerful, yet highly fuel-efficient, low-CO2 Ford EcoBoost™ petrol engines.

The previous European C-MAX established a reputation for providing a balance of enjoyable driving dynamics and impressive comfort. The all-new model is set to take that performance to a new level, giving drivers a class-leading combination of responsive, sporty handling and overall refinement approaching the standards usually associated with larger, luxury vehicles.

C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid are two of five electrified vehicles that Ford will bring to the European and North American market during the next three years. In addition, the Ford Transit Connect Electric small commercial van, built in collaboration with Azure Dynamics, is being introduced in Europe this year and the all-new Focus Electric will launch in 2012. An additional next-generation hybrid electric vehicle will be announced later and available in North America in 2012 and Europe in 2013.

by Ford

FORD C-MAX ENERGI RATED AMERICA'S MOST FUEL-EFFICIENT PLUG-IN HYBRID AT 108 MPGE; SAVES CUSTOMERS $7,000 IN FUEL COSTS

•The C-MAX Energi is America's most fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid with U.S. EPA-certified 108 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) in the city

•C-MAX Energi achieves a best-in-class combined EPA-certified rating of 100 MPGe, topping the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid combined rating by 5 MPGe, which the EPA says will help customers save nearly $7,000 in fuel costs in five years

•A Californian facing record $5-per-gallon gasoline and turning in an average 23-mpg vehicle for a C-MAX Energi would pay the equivalent of $1.25 per gallon for the same distances traveled

•At $29,995, the C-MAX Energi is America's most affordable plug-in hybrid; available this fall, C-MAX Energi is Ford's first production plug-in hybrid, part of Ford's first hybrid-only dedicated line of vehicles

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 11, 2012 – With many Americans facing record gasoline prices, the all-new Ford C-MAX Energi is America's most fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid with an EPA- certified 108 miles-per-gallon equivalent (MPGe) city rating and 100 MPGe combined rating.

Over the course of five years, C-MAX Energi customers could save nearly $7,000 compared with the average new vehicle, according to the federal EPA label. Comparative savings could go even higher if the current trend of rising gas prices continues.

The C-MAX Energi's 100 MPGe combined rating beats the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid's combined rating by 5 MPGe. With a starting price of $29,995, after federal tax credit and including destination and delivery costs, C-MAX Energi is expected to be America's most affordable plug-in hybrid.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rating places the C-MAX Energi in an elite group of production vehicles that have received EPA ratings of 100 MPGe or greater. This group includes the Ford Focus Electric at 110 MPGe in the city. The Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid, due out in early 2013, is projected to deliver 100+ MPGe. The addition of the Fusion Energi will help create one of the industry's most fuel-efficient car lineups.

'Ford is giving customers the power of choice for leading fuel economy regardless of what type of vehicle or powertrain technology they choose,' said John Davis, chief nameplate engineer, C-MAX Energi. 'With $5-per-gallon gasoline, C-MAX Energi customers essentially will pay $1.25 per gallon for the same distance traveled compared with average vehicles estimated to achieve 23 mpg.'

The C-MAX Energi joins the C-MAX Hybrid as part of Ford's first hybrid-only dedicated line of vehicles. C-MAX Hybrid, available in dealerships this fall, is now officially EPA-certified at 47 mpg city, 47 mpg highway and 47 mpg combined – beating Toyota Prius v by up to 7 mpg.

Patently innovative

Many of the innovative technologies in C-MAX Energi are shared across Ford's electrified vehicle lineup and draw from the automaker's portfolio of about 500 patents related specifically to hybrid technology. Further, C-MAX Energi is projected to deliver 15 class-exclusive features.

Among the standard and available features are:

•SYNC® with MyFord Touch® offers multiple ways – including voice commands – for customers to manage and control their phone, navigation, entertainment and climate functions. Plug-in hybrids and all-electric models have additional options for monitoring information like battery state of charge

•MyFord Mobile, available for C-MAX Energi in early 2013, enables access via smartphone or Web-based interface to perform key tasks, such as monitoring a vehicle's state of charge and current range or locating charge stations and planning routes to find them

•SmartGauge® with EcoGuide provides in-vehicle customizable displays, including instantaneous fuel economy readings and coaching functions to help drivers understand and optimize their fuel efficiency

•ECO Cruise saves vehicle energy by relaxing acceleration compared to standard cruise control

•EV mode button – conveniently mounted in the center stack – allows a driver to switch vehicle operation between three modes: all-electric, normal hybrid operation, conserve battery power for later use

•Regenerative braking is capable of capturing and reusing more than 95 percent of the braking energy normally lost during the braking process

•Hybrid transmission, designed by Ford engineers in-house, is capable of operating at high speeds and in a smooth, fuel-efficient manner at the same time

•Advanced Lithium-ion batteries used in Ford's electrified vehicle lineup – covered by an eight-year/100,000-mile component warranty – are smaller and lighter than nickel metal hybrid batteries used in previous generation hybrids

•Charge port with LED light ring (for electric and plug-in vehicles)is conveniently located on the driver's side and near the front of the car and features a light ring that illuminates to indicate charge status

by Ford

FORD C-MAX ENERGI: MOST RANGE, MORE EFFICIENCY AND AFFORDABILITY THAN ANY PLUG-IN HYBRID

•All-new 2013 Ford C-MAX Energi delivers EPA-certified 108 MPGe city, 92 MPGe highway rating and 100 MPGe combined; estimated to save $7,000 in fuel costs over

five years

•C-MAX Energi also delivers up to 620 miles of range on a single tank of gas and a fully charged battery – 80 miles more than what is delivered by Toyota Prius plug-in

•America's most affordable plug-in hybrid, versatile Ford C-MAX Energi offers best-in-class passenger volume and 15 class-exclusive features such as the available hands-free liftgate

•C-MAX Energi is part of Ford's power of choice strategy to deliver leading fuel economy across its lineup while tripling electrified vehicle production capacity by 2013

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 8, 2012 - The all-new 2013 C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid vehicle showcases Ford's 20 years of hybrid expertise as America's most fuel-efficient and affordable plug-in hybrid that delivers more overall driving range than any utility vehicle.

C-MAX Energi also offers 'real-vehicle' performance and technologies - including 15 class-exclusive features such as the available hands-free liftgate and active park assist, and SmartGauge® with EcoGuide - understanding the next wave of customers will not make tradeoffs like adopters of many early hybrids.

Further, Ford has been able to package it all in a vehicle that is priced at $29,995 (after a federal tax credit), beating Toyota Prius plug-in to become America's most affordable plug-in hybrid vehicle.

'From fuel efficiency to innovative technologies to the performance and price, everything we've done for the last 20 years in the area of hybrid vehicle technology has led up to this,' said John Davis, chief nameplate engineer, C-MAX Energi.

Consider the fuel efficiency of C-MAX Energi: It is certified by the U.S. EPA to offer a best-in-class rating of 108 miles per gallon equivalent in the city, along with 92 MPGe highway and 100 MPGe combined. The EPA also estimates that driving C-MAX Energi saves almost $7,000 in fuel costs over the course of five years compared with the average new vehicle.

Further, the vehicle is certified to deliver up to 620 miles of range on a single tank of gas and a fully charged battery. That's 80 miles more than what is delivered by Toyota Prius plug-in, and gives the vehicle the capability to make trips to and from key destinations, such as Detroit to New York City, or Los Angeles to Las Vegas.

C-MAX Energi also can drive up to 21 miles in electric mode only - more than three times the six-mile electric-only range offered by Prius plug-in. With the average commute reportedly 20 miles one way - and the number of public charging stations growing rapidly - C-MAX Energi could feasibly handle a day of driving to and from work without using a drop of gas.

The stellar range and fuel efficiency come with excellent performance, too. C-MAX Energi offers 195 net system horsepower with a fully charged battery - 60 more horsepower than the Prius plug-in - and a top speed in electric mode of 85 mph, which is 25 mph more than the Prius.

C-MAX Energi also gives the driver control over how the vehicle's power is used through an EV mode button - conveniently mounted in the center stack - that allows switching vehicle operation between three modes.

Drivers can opt for electric-only driving without gasoline engine power, normal hybrid mode where the powertrain melds electric and gasoline engine power as appropriate, or a battery-saving mode that reserves the pack power for later use.

C-MAX Energi also has a feature called EV+ that allows for the vehicle to stay in electric-only mode for longer durations by learning frequent destinations. The feature was developed in response to Ford research that found drivers prefer to have their vehicles be in electric-only mode whenever possible, Davis explained.

'C-MAX is Ford's first hybrid-dedicated nameplate in North America, but the ability to offer features like EV+ indicates just how deep our level of understanding and expertise is when it comes to hybrids,' said Davis.

Max performance

C-MAX Energi's power is rooted in third-generation hybrid vehicle technology found throughout Ford's portfolio of roughly 500 hybrid patents, technology that has helped cut costs of the automaker's current hybrid system by 30 percent compared with previous generations.

It starts with the combination of a gasoline engine, a battery-driven electric motor and a new hybrid transmission called HF35.

HF35 - designed in-house by Ford and manufactured at the company's Van Dyke Transmission Plant - allows for operation at higher speeds than any other hybrid utility by featuring more precise controls that deliver higher levels of refinement as the powertrain transitions between engine and electric drive.

When powered by gasoline, C-MAX Energi uses the all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine - powerful, fuel efficient, and among the most advanced non-turbocharged four-cylinder powertrains Ford has ever offered.

In electric-only mode, C-MAX Energi uses an advanced 7.6-kWh lithium-ion (li-ion) battery pack that can charge in as little as 2.5 hours when using a 240-volt charging station - the same kind available at most public charging stations. A 240-volt station for home use and made by Leviton is available for purchase through a collaboration between Ford and the retailer Best Buy.

C-MAX Energi also features an LED-illuminated ring around the charge port, conveniently located on the front quarter panel of the driver's side of the vehicle. The lighted ring makes it easy to determine the status of the vehicle's battery charge: A fully lit circle means the battery is completely charged.

Max technology and flexibility

For managing the battery of C-MAX Energi away from the vehicle, MyFord Mobile® is available for use via smartphone. MyFord Mobile allows C-MAX Energi owners to control select features of their vehicle from nearly anywhere, anytime, using the MyFord Mobile website or app.

For example, it can be set to send alerts when the battery is fully charged or even to take advantage of value charging – a way that allows customers to schedule charging at off-peak or other reduced rates based on local utility participation. More information about MyFord Mobile can be found here.

For monitoring the vehicle's power while in it, C-MAX Energi offers the latest generation of SmartGauge with EcoGuide. Designed to help drivers get the most from C-MAX, SmartGauge with EcoGuide provides information such as instantaneous fuel economy that is displayed on one of two 4.2-inch LCD screens, helping drivers more closely monitor how their driving behavior affects the vehicle's efficiency.

In the right cluster, redesigned imagery of green leaves shows overall driving efficiency. The left cluster shows Brake Coach, a feature that helps drivers optimize their use of the regenerative braking system so that driving range may be enhanced through proper braking techniques.

Further controls are accessible through the 8-inch center stack screen serving as the interface between driver and the standard feature SYNC® with MyFord Touch®– an in-car, voice-activated, fully integrated communications and entertainment system that allows drivers to stay connected to the information, entertainment and people they care about through the use of wireless technology.

Specific MyFord Touch features include SYNC 911 Assist® (it can call 911 in case of an accident in which airbags deploy) and SYNC Services, which provides personalized traffic reports, turn-by-turn directions and up-to-date information such as business listings, news, sports and weather.

Many other technologies – including 15 class-exclusive features – clearly demonstrate the 20 years of research and innovation behind the software and hardware technology C-MAX Energi offers, incorporating many of the nearly 500 patents Ford holds in the area of hybrid technology.

Among them is the available hands-free liftgate that allows quick and easy access to the cargo area without ever needing to fumble for keys. A gentle kicking motion under the rear bumper opens the liftgate when used in combination with a key fob the user keeps in his or her pocket or purse that tells the car it's OK to engage. The same motion can be used to close the liftgate.

When open, the liftgate provides access to 42.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front row with rear passenger seat backs folded down. That includes 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row.

And with best-in-class passenger volume of 99.7 cubic feet, C-MAX Energi can accommodate five.

Max opportunity and choice

The all-new C-MAX Energi is part of Ford's first dedicated line of hybrid vehicles in North America that also includes the 2013 C-MAX Hybrid.

Ford C-MAX Hybrid delivers EPA-certified 47 mpg city and 47 mpg highway – 7 mpg better than Toyota Prius v on the highway – for a 47 mpg combined rating.

Further, C-MAX Hybrid offers a range of 570 miles – 120 miles further than Prius v. Additional information about C-MAX Hybrid can be found here.

The new C-MAX Hybrid led Ford in achieving its best October hybrid sales month ever with a total of 4,612 sales last month, up 142 percent over October 2011. C-MAX Hybrid sales helped Ford deliver its best October for small car sales in 11 years. Ford sales of Focus, C-MAX and Fiesta were up 54 percent to 25,493 units year over year.

Ford expects about half of C-MAX buyers to trade in competitive models – one of the highest conquest rates of any Ford vehicle.

C-MAX hybrids headline Ford's transformed lineup, one third of which will feature a model with 40 mpg or more in 2012, building on the company's commitment to give fuel-efficiency-minded customers the power of choice.

In addition to C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi, Ford's other three electrified vehicles are:

•Focus Electric: Production began late 2011; America's most fuel-efficient compact with 110 MPGe city; charge time of four hours with the available 240-volt charging station, which is nearly half the time as Nissan Leaf

•All-new Fusion Hybrid: Available now; 47 mpg city/highway/combined beats 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid by 5 mpg highway

•Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid: Will begin production by the end of 2012; aiming to be the most fuel-efficient midsize car in the world

C-MAX Energi is built at Ford's Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich. – the first facility in the world capable of building a full array of vehicles including gas-powered, electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid, all on the same production line. C-MAX Hybrid, Focus, Focus Electric and Focus ST also are built at the plant. More details about MAP can be found.

by Ford

GE TO PURCHASE 2,000 FORD C-MAX ENERGI PLUG-IN HYBRIDS;

Companies Collaborate with Georgia Tech to Accelerate Alternative Fuel Vehicle Adoption and Research

•GE will purchase 2,000 C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrids – Ford's largest-ever plug-in electrified vehicle fleet sale – as part of GE's commitment to convert half of its global fleet to alternative fuel vehicles

•C-MAX Energi is America's most fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid with a 108 MPGe city EPA rating and a 620-mile single-tank range that will benefit GE's sales and service professionals – many who drive more mileage daily than average commuters

•Ford will promote GE's WattStation™ charging station and CNG in a Box™ natural gas fueling station with its commercial buyers. Ford will also supply new alternative fuel vehicles for use at GE's Vehicle Innovation Center

•Georgia Institute of Technology researchers to study GE employee driving and charging habits through innovative MyFord® Mobile app to help optimize all-electric driving

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 20, 2012 – Ford Motor Company today announces a collaboration with GE (NYSE: GE), in which the company will purchase 2,000 Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrids for its fleet – Ford's largest-ever plug-in electrified vehicle fleet sale. Ford will also jointly market GE's alternative fuel infrastructure solutions.

For GE, the purchase of 2,000 Ford C-MAX Energi vehicles is another step in the company's initiative to convert half of its global fleet to alternative fuel vehicles as part of its commitment to ecomagination. The addition of the Ford vehicles brings the number of alternative fuel vehicles in GE's fleet to more than 5,000 in its goal of 25,000 vehicles.

'Ford is launching six new electrified vehicles – a big bet that fuel prices will continue rising and lead to more demand for advanced fuel-efficient vehicles,' says Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. 'We are pleased to partner with GE, a company that is charting a similar course, to promote advanced technology and energy savings.'

Mark Vachon, vice president of ecomagination at GE, says, 'At GE, we are focused on providing our customers and our fleet with more economically and environmentally efficient vehicles. The Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid is a great addition to our expanding fleet of alternative fuel vehicles.'

The two companies will also work with researchers from Georgia Institute of Technology to study GE employee driving and charging habits, with the goal of improving all-electric driving and charging performance. Researchers will use Ford's MyFord® Mobile app – with real-time battery charge status and value charging that automatically recharges at lower-cost, off-peak electricity rates.

'Understanding driving and charging habits is key to advancing vehicle and charging infrastructure,' says Professor Bert Bras of the Sustainable Design & Manufacturing laboratory at Georgia Tech. 'Through access to vehicle data, we can accelerate research and development of new technologies to further improve efficiency, driver satisfaction and environmental benefits.'

Study findings will be shared with commercial customers to provide insights and help facilitate deployment of electric vehicles in their own fleets amid a growing electric vehicle infrastructure that now includes more than 10,000 public charging stations across the country.

Ecomagination is GE's commitment to providing innovative solutions that maximize resources, drive economic performance and help make the world work better.

Max efficiency

With many Americans facing record gasoline prices, Ford is committed to deliver eight vehicles by year-end that deliver 40 mpg or more.

The all-new Ford C-MAX Energi is America's most fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid with an EPA- estimated 108 miles-per-gallon equivalent (MPGe) city rating and 100 MPGe combined rating. C-MAX Energi is expected to be America's most affordable plug-in hybrid with a starting price of $29,995, after federal tax credit and including destination and delivery costs.

The C-MAX Energi joins the C-MAX Hybrid as part of Ford's first hybrid-only dedicated line of vehicles. C-MAX Hybrid, available in dealerships this fall, is America's most fuel-efficient hybrid utility vehicle with EPA ratings of 47 mpg city, 47 mpg highway and 47 mpg combined.

The C-MAX hybrids are on sale now and part of Ford's strategy to deliver the power of choice for leading fuel economy across the lineup that includes six electrified vehicles. The other EVs are:

•Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid expected to achieve at least 100 MPGe to become the world's most fuel-efficient sedan

•Fusion Hybrid at 47 mpg city, highway and combined is America's most fuel-efficient, non-rechargeable sedan

Focus Electric at 105 MPGe combined is America's most fuel-efficient five-seat car

•Lincoln MKZ Hybrid coming later this year and expected to remain the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America

Fueling infrastructure

Ford will promote GE's WattStation™ charging station and CNG in a Box™ natural gas fueling station with its commercial customers. GE's WattStation is an easy-to-use electric vehicle charger that significantly decreases the time needed for vehicle charging. The WattStation uses smart grid technology and comes with an app that helps customers more easily locate vehicle electricity sources. GE's ecomagination qualified CNG in a Box is a fully integrated CNG fueling supply system offering cost-effective plug-and-play simplicity for fleet and retail fueling stations seeking to offer

CNG fuel.

Ford also will supply new alternative fuel vehicles for use at GE's Vehicle Innovation Center at the headquarters of GE's fleet management business in Eden Prairie, Minn. The Vehicle Innovation Center gives GE's commercial customers the opportunity to learn about and test-drive alternative fuel cars and trucks from a variety of manufacturers in a single location with assistance from GE's fleet, transportation, energy and advanced technology experts. Ford already has placed its pure electric Focus at the center.

by Ford