There was a story in today's New York Times that the 2004 Explorer will have a hybrid electric/gas engine in 2004. The engine is similiar to the one used in Honda's hybrid car. The gas milease will rise from 19 mpg to 27 mpg. Instead of a 12 volt battery, there will be a 42 volt battery.
Essentially, whenever the Explorer comes to a stop the engine will be cut off. When the accelerator is pushed, the vehicle will be started immediately by the high powered battery. The start and stop is supposed to be so smooth that the driver will not notice it.
Essentially, whenever the Explorer comes to a stop the engine will be cut off. When the accelerator is pushed, the vehicle will be started immediately by the high powered battery. The start and stop is supposed to be so smooth that the driver will not notice it.
