Ford to electrify European range with fleet of hybrids and EVs

The Fiesta and Focus, perennially two of the UK’s best-selling cars, will gain mild hybrid versions, using a 48V belt-driven start motor mated to the 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol engine, from next year. Ford says the Fiesta has an expected fuel economy of 57.6mpg, with the Focus offering 60.1mpg. Those models join the Mondeo, which is already offered as a plug-in hybrid. 

As part of its European restructuring plan, Ford is putting a major focus on its commercial vehicle business. It is developing a fully electric Transit, due to launch in 2021, with a plug-in hybrid version launching this year. Ford will also launch a Tourneo Custom plug-in hybrid MPV later this year. The eight-seater’s front wheels are driven purely by an electric motor, with a 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol engine serving as a range extender. Ford claims a zero-emission driving range of up to 31 miles, with a total range of 310 miles. 

Ford is also tipped to confirm the launch of the Fiesta-based SUV seen testing recently. The small crossover will sit alongside the Ford Ecosport in Ford’s small SUV range and is likely to gain its own nameplate taken from the Blue Oval’s past. 

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