Ford has reduced its Fusion's weight by nearly 25%.
In a bid to improve performance and fuel efficiency, the US automaker has unveiled its Lightweight Concept vehicle which it hopes will also reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
New Lightweight Concept car Image: Ford |
Based on the 2013 model of the Fusion, this latest lightweight vehicle follows the introduction of the all-aluminium F-150 which has shed up to 700 pounds.
Vehicle weightloss is something of a balancing act for Ford: "Consumers today want better fuel efficiency, but they also want more technology and features in the car, which usually adds weight to the vehicle,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development.
Ford's answer to this is to use advanced materials for the power train, chassis, body, battery and interior features such as seats. The company has developed the research vehicle with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Program, together with Cosma International – a subsidiary of Magna International.