Our recent drive of the Fusion Hybrid proved that the vehicle—if driven with a light foot—can achieve mileage in the mid-40s. That makes the Fusion Hybrid the first American hybrid sedan to hit the mpg big leagues. And that earns Ford a spot on any hybrid buyer’s consideration list, despite the un-truth of their primary marketing claim.
It’s not news that hybrid sales are down from one year ago, when people were still buying cars and gas prices were peaking at $4 a gallon. But two bright spots in the hybrid market are providing evidence that hybrids can help carmakers recover in the short-run—and prosper thereafter. Those two bright spots are Ford and Honda.
Buyers of a new 2010 Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid this year will qualify for a $3,400 tax credit, the highest credit amount offered for hybrids.
Many of today’s hybrid drivers keep a close eye on the fuel economy reading on the dashboard. Instantaneous MPG readings provide essential feedback about the effects of toes tapping on the accelerator, extended stretches of coasting, and easing on the brakes. But the new generation of fuel efficiency dashboard displays takes hybrid geekiness to a new level—turning drivers into game players on wheels.
Emblazoned with racing graphics, the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid will take to the national stage this Sunday in Miami, becoming the first hybrid vehicle to serve as official pace car at a Nascar race.
