Ford launching low CO2 "ECOnetic" range in Frankfurt

Ford is the latest carmaker to launch a new range of ultra-low CO2 emitting vehicles, with next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show the venue for the debut of the new ECOnetic line. The cars will use a combination of ultra-efficient diesel powertrains as well as other fuel-saving and exhaust filtering technologies to reduce overall CO2 emissions. The first ECOnetic model will be based on the European-spec Focus hatch, which promises to deliver best-in-class CO2 emissions for a conventional powertrain at just 115g/km when it goes on sale early next year.

Powering the car is a 108hp (80kW) 1.6L Duratorq TDCi engine with a standard diesel particular filter, whose average fuel consumption is a low 54mpg (4.3L/100km). Aiding efficiency is a set of low roll-resistant ties and a reasonable coefficient of drag of 0.31cd. Other initiatives Ford is looking at to improve greenhouse gas emissions is new Flex-fuel powertrains and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) fueled vehicles.

Other carmakers launching similar clean-emissions models include Renault, which will be showcasing its eco˛ line at the Frankfurt show as well as Volkswagen and its BlueMotion range.