Stop-start fuel saving technology allows non-hybrid vehicles to become more fuel-efficient, at least, that’s the idea. Ford rolled it out initially with the 2013 Ford Focus, but the company wants to move forward in an aggressive roll out with its other cars. Executives haven’t given a specific time frame for complete integration, nor which cars will receive the technology first, but the fact that Ford is discussing such a move shows the company’s commitment to providing options and savings to its customers.
How It Works
Stop-start fuel saving technology turns off the engine of a car when parked or left idle for long periods of time. Drivers only need to press the gas pedal to restart the engine and resume normal activities. The system includes an indicator light to let drivers know when the engine shuts down. The remaining functions of the car are not affected, though. They continue to draw power from the battery. Since this technology relies heavily on the battery, industry experts recommend an upgraded battery to compensate for the constant draw during stop-and-go traffic.
Benefits of Stop-Start Fuel Saving Technology
The largest benefit of the technology is the fuel-efficiency drivers receive. According to tests conducted by AAA, drivers with the start-stop fuel saving technology engaged saved an average of seven percent over those with the technology disengaged. Besides the fuel savings this technology offers, it also has a benefit for the environment. By eliminating engine idling, which is prominent in city driving with stop-and-go traffic, it reduces toxic and smog-causing tailpipe emissions.
Costs
Although Ford builds much of the cost of stop-start fuel saving technology for hybrids into the overall hybrid package, for a non-hybrid, industry analysts say the actual cost is somewhere between $ 300 and $ 400. However, Ford wants it to be an affordable option for its customers, so the company offers it for $ 295. It would take owners a little over a year to recoup the costs of the package initially; but drivers save more in fuel costs in the long run. Ford believes this technology will save drivers an average of $ 1,100 dollars over five years.
Ford’s Power of Choice
Ford’s aggressive roll out, while about making a cost-saving difference to customers and ecological benefits to the environment, is also about providing customers with a choice. Over the years, Ford has introduced a wide range of engine and transmission options, including electrified engines, natural gas and propane-ready engines, and engines that function on biofuels. Between electric cars, hybrids, and the EcoBoost engine, Ford’s goal of providing options for its customers has been well met.
Ford’s position on aggressively rolling out the start-stop fuel saving technology is in-line with the company’s goal of providing choices to its consumers. Furthermore, it hopes to roll out the technology to at least 70% of its non-hybrid vehicles by the end of 2017. The benefits of the technology include fuel savings to the customer, improved emissions for the environment, and low-cost options to make it a worthwhile expense.
