Ford Adds Jobs at Michigan Factory to Support Upcoming Hybrid Models

BEVERLY, MASS. (08/13/2012)(readMedia)-- As part of the automaker's commitment to create 12,000 U.S. jobs by 2015, Ford is adding 225 workers at its Van Dyke Transmission Plant in Michigan to produce its first in-house hybrid transmission. Previously relying on a Japanese manufacturer for its gas-electric transmissions, Ford has now developed its own front-wheel-drive solution called the HF35, teaming with suppliers to invest $220 million into the Michigan facility for production.

While it still manufactures a conventional six-speed automatic gearbox, the Van Dyke plant has become the only facility in North America that makes front-wheel-drive hybrid transmissions. Appearing this fall in the new 2013 C-MAX Hybrid, C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid and redesigned 2013 Fusion Hybrid, the new HF35 transmissions will be lighter to increase fuel economy and will feature electric motors that can reach higher speeds. The 2013 Fusion Energi will also house the HF35 when its production begins by the end of the year.

"Ford has produced an extremely refined hybrid transmission so that drivers will sacrifice even less in performance when they buy one of its new gas-electric vehicles," said Steve Leary, dealer principal of Thomas Ford, a Beverly, MA Ford dealership. "Those buyers will also have the comfort of knowing that they are supporting American jobs, whether they choose a Fusion Hybrid or one of the C-MAX models."

The 2013 Ford C-MAX Energi multi-activity vehicle will be the most affordable plug-in hybrid on the market when it debuts, thanks in large part to Ford's ability to cut the costs of its new hybrid systems by 30 percent. In addition to manufacturing the HF35 under its own roof, Ford has found additional savings for buyers by handling the development of the C-MAX Energi's battery system and software internally.

With a manufacturer-estimated all-electric range of more than 20 miles, the C-MAX Energi will likely be able to travel at least three times as far as the Toyota Prius Plug-in using electricity alone. When a full tank of gas enters the picture, the new Ford plug-in increases its range to an expected total of 550 miles. The C-MAX Energi produces an even mix of responsiveness and efficiency as well, combining a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor to generate a projected 188 horsepower and return 95 MPGe in combined city and highway driving.

Ford expects the C-MAX Energi to offer 15 class-exclusive features, including a hands-free liftgate and active park assist. Other smart technologies include standard active grille shutters that reduce air resistance, an optional reverse sensing system that beeps to alert the driver about objects behind the rear bumper, and the available SYNC with MyFord Touch infotainment system.

"The C-MAX Energi is perfect for Greater Boston drivers who need extra room for family members or cargo, but want an affordable option when it comes to purchase price and weekly fuel costs," added Leary. "It can accommodate up to five passengers or fit up to 42.8 cubic-feet of gear when the back seats are folded, which is a surprising amount of space considering the great fuel efficiency that it returns."

About Thomas Ford:

Thomas Ford, located in Beverly, has been a fixture in the North Shore of Massachusetts for over 40 years. They base their success on their dedicated sales and Ford service departments' commitment to customer satisfaction. It's never been a better time to be a Ford owner, and Thomas Ford encourages you to stop by their dealership to discover why. For more information, call them at 978-922-0059, visit their web site at www.thomasford.com, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ThomasFordAuto or stop by their dealership at 211 Rantoul Street in Beverly, Massachusetts.