Ford Europe: Hybrid To The C-MAX

Bertel Schmitt
by Bertel Schmitt
Ford’s first hybrid models for European customers will be built in Valencia Spain. Valencia was the logical choice.Valencia had been picked in 2009 as the European single source for all versions of the “compact multi-activity model” Ford C-MAX and Grand C-MAX . Powered by EcoBoost gasoline and Duratorq TDCi diesel engines, they will launch later this year. A gasoline-powered seven-seat version of the C-MAX model for North America will go into production in Valencia in late 2011.Next in line will be two hybrid derivatives of the C-MAX to be launched in 2013: a full Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), and a Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV).Investment in the cars doesn’t come cheap, and the Spanish government will chip in. ”The Spanish government and Valencia regional administration are providing the highest grant support in line with European Union requirements,” says a Ford release. “The exact amount of this support will be determined at a later date.”
Bertel Schmitt
Bertel Schmitt

Bertel Schmitt comes back to journalism after taking a 35 year break in advertising and marketing. He ran and owned advertising agencies in Duesseldorf, Germany, and New York City. Volkswagen A.G. was Bertel's most important corporate account. Schmitt's advertising and marketing career touched many corners of the industry with a special focus on automotive products and services. Since 2004, he lives in Japan and China with his wife <a href="http://www.tomokoandbertel.com"> Tomoko </a>. Bertel Schmitt is a founding board member of the <a href="http://www.offshoresuperseries.com"> Offshore Super Series </a>, an American offshore powerboat racing organization. He is co-owner of the racing team Typhoon.

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  • 50merc 50merc on May 10, 2010

    It's a shame the C-MAX isn't available in the US.

  • Moedaman Moedaman on May 10, 2010

    I take it that the C-Max is roomier inside than it looks from the outside. Because it looks to me that the third row of seats would only be good for children or pets.

  • Robcook9 Robcook9 on May 10, 2010

    Europe is Quite Huge Market, as ford planed well for launch his best product in world's best market, C-Max is looking good Hybrid Car, ford generally not specialized in 5 seated cars, but must say this time they done well with this format, i hope u see him as US Road before 2013, as GM has good market at US also, http://www.truckcarsrv.com/usedrvs/

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