FORD is stepping on the gas in its bid to ensure better fuel economy across its entire model range.
And the latest phase in the company’s plan comes courtesy of two new ECOnetic models unveiled at the Paris Motor Show – the new Mondeo ECOnetic and Ka TDCi with Start-Stop.
The pair’s arrival follows Ford initiatives that have this year seen the company introduce its new range of EcoBoost turbocharged direct injection petrol engines as well as improved versions of Duratorq TDCi diesels across the line-up.
Also new are the ECOnetic technologies collection - designed to help customers equip their car with equipment specifically aimed at greener, more fuel efficient motoring.
Features like Ford Eco Mode and Smart Regenerative Charging have been introduced widely, and these - combined with the new Ka TDCi and dedicated Mondeo ECOnetic models - ensure that Ford of Europe is on track to pass its goal of a 30 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions from its new cars by 2020.
The new Mondeo ECOnetic model will be the most frugal Mondeo yet when it hits showrooms next spring.
It has a specially calibrated 115PS version of the 1.6-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi engine equipped with a standard diesel particulate filter and coupled to a six-speed manual transmission with a longer final drive.
Key to the Mondeo performance is the standard Ford Auto-Start-Stop system which can reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to five per cent in mixed driving conditions.
Ford is confident that figure could rise to 10 per cent in an urban environment and in heavy traffic with frequent stops.
The ECOnetic model also includes a special aerodynamic kit with lowered suspension and low rolling resistant tyres, the combination of which is targeted to deliver a combined fuel consumption of 65.6mpg and CO2 emissions of 115g/km.
Start-Stop technology also makes the Ford Ka a more efficient city car where frequent stops at traffic lights and queues due to heavy traffic are the norm.
Both Ka engine options – 1.2 petrol and 1.3 diesel - will have the system as standard from November improving fuel economy by three per cent, and both units will also meet the Euro V emission levels.
"Fuel economy is one of the biggest drivers for a customer, when choosing a car. With efficient new powertrains and Ford ECOnetic Technologies extending across more of our vehicles, we offer affordable solutions for a large range of customers that make a real contribution to reducing the carbon footprint of automotive mobility," said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.