Tue Jan 11 2011
Byline: Tony Van Alphen
Automakers unleashed more electric models and hybrids in efforts to gain an edge in the emerging trend away from the internal combustion engine.
Surging Ford Motor Co. muscled into the market with the release of two more models at the North American International Auto Show after unveiling its electric version of the Focus at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas last week.
Toyota, the world's current hybrid leader, introduced more members of its Prius "family," while other automakers dotted the show with "green" models, that feature the latest advances in fuel economy and distance capabilities without recharging.
Ford spent its entire presentation showing off 10 small fuel-efficient cars, including the C-Max Energi, plug-in hybrid electric "multi-activity" vehicle, and the C-Max hybrid. Both vehicles will be available in North America next year.
In addition to the Focus electric car, which Ford developed with Aurora-based Magna International, the company said it will sell a seven passenger Ford C-Max that has the industry's first hands-free lift gate and looks like a small minivan.
Begley noted the Focus' much faster recharging prowess of three hours and Ford's assistance in setting up home plug-in facilities.
As thousands of paper butterflies floated from the ceiling of the Cobo Hall at the end of the Ford presentation, Begley remarked: "Who is the company that brings you those butterflies?"
On the floor of the show, other automakers ranging from Honda to Mercedes-Benz displayed electric concept cars. One Mercedes car was emblazoned with the message "zero-emission, e-cell, Blue efficiency."
Illustration: William Clay Ford Jr. addresses reporters at the Detroit auto show. David Cooper/Toronto Star
© 2011 Torstar Corporation
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