Originally published February 23 2006
Ford unveils diesel hybrid
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Ford recently unveiled its Reflex sports car -- a hybrid automobile that that combines a diesel engine, electric motor and solar panels -- at the North American Auto Show in Detroit, marking the first time a car manufacturer has experimented with a diesel hybrid.
Taking concept cars to a new level --- one that combines a diesel engine, electric motor and solar panels --- Ford unveiled its Reflex sportscar this week at the North American Auto Show in Detroit.
Gasoline-electric hybrids are now mainstream vehicles, but no carmaker has yet to roll out a diesel hybrid.
Diesel cars dominate in Europe, and U.S. carmakers are starting to eye the market given technology improvements that have eliminated smoke and the loud rattling sound of earlier diesels.
In addition, cleaner diesel fuel will be a requirement in the United States by next year and biodiesel, made from organic matter, is finding a following.
Like gas-electric hybrids, the Reflex's hybrid battery pack is charged by the engine and heat from braking.
But it also gets charge from solar panels in the headlamps and taillamps --- a technology Ford said it had patented.
Solar panels in the roof power electric fans that cool the interior when the car is parked outside on a hot day.
Ford stated that the hybrid battery pack uses lithium-ion batteries, the same kind found in cell phones and laptops.
IMAGE: REFLEX HEADLIGHT Jim Seida / MSNBC.com Solar panels are embedded into the front and rear lights of the Reflex.
Inside the Reflex, Ford used ground rubber from recycled athletic shoes as insulation to reduce interior noise and vibration.
As for the hybrid system, Ford said the diesel engine powers the front wheels, while an electric motor powers the rear wheels --- providing "all-wheel-drive capability, improved driving dynamics and the fuel economy benefits of a full hybrid vehicle."
"From consumer electronics to urban dwellings, small is becoming big in America," said Peter Horbury, executive director of Ford's North American Design group.
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