Ford to extend its Auto Start-Stop from hybrids to normal range

Ford Motors today said that its fuel-saving technology that automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop – a feature found today on the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Ford Escape Hybrid and some Ford cars in Europe – will soon be added to conventional cars, crossovers and SUVs. 

Ford's patented new Auto Start-Stop system for gasoline engines will improve fuel economy for most drivers by at least 4 per cent. The gain can be as high as 10 per cent for some drivers, depending on vehicle size and usage. It can also reduce tailpipe emissions to zero while the vehicle is stationary or waiting at a stoplight. Ford has more than 244 patents for its Auto Start-Stop technology and will showcase the feature on a concept in January at the North American International Auto Show.

Auto Start-Stop is the latest example of Ford moving aggressively to introduce affordable advanced fuel-saving technologies. The auto maker has already introduced electric power steering, dual-clutch PowerShift six-speed transmissions and other fuel-saving features as part of its commitment to lead or be among the leaders in fuel economy in every segment.

Ford says that its Auto Start-Stop technology is smooth, quiet and seamless, and it requires no change to the driver's behaviour. In city driving when the vehicle is stopped, the engine restarts the instant the driver's foot leaves the brake pedal. When the engine is off, all of the vehicle's accessories function normally.

''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.''

The global rollout of Auto Start-Stop is under way in Europe. The system, designed to work on both gasoline and diesel engines, is standard on the ECOnetic models of the Ford Ka and Mondeo, and is launching now on Focus, C-MAX and Grand C-MAX. The fuel-saving system debuts in North America in 2012 and eventually will be offered in all of Ford's global markets.