Two new assembly lines will enable the advanced lithium-ion batteries that help power all-new Kuga Plug-In Hybrid, all-new Kuga Hybrid, and new S-MAX Hybrid and Galaxy Hybrid to be produced alongside the vehicles for greater manufacturing efficiency and sustainability. Delivered through a 24 million euros investment, the new battery assembly facility will begin production in September this year.
When introduced in early 2021, the new S-MAX Hybrid sport activity vehicle and Galaxy Hybrid people mover will deliver enhanced fuel efficiency, reduced CO2 emissions and greater refinement. The currently unique-to-segment electrified powertrain will offer a compelling alternative to Ford’s EcoBlue diesel-powered models without compromising interior space, comfort or flexibility.
Production of the new self-charging electrified S-MAX and Galaxy variants – powered by a 2.5‑litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine, electric motor, generator and lithium-ion battery – is enabled by an additional 8 million euro investment in new tooling and assembly line upgrades at Ford’s Valencia facility. A further 10 million euro investment supports production of the all-new Kuga Hybrid SUV. Ford is introducing 14 electrified vehicles in Europe by the end of 2020.
“With electrification fast becoming the mainstream, we are increasing our investment in Valencia to provide even more electrified models and powertrain options for our customers” said Stuart Rowley, president, Ford of Europe. “By making it easier than ever to transition into an electrified vehicle, we expect the majority of our passenger vehicle sales to be electrified by the end of 2022.”
Ford has invested 3 billion euro in its Valencia facility since 2011, including 750 million euros to support production of Kuga – Ford’s most electrified vehicle ever with a comprehensive line-up including the Kuga Plug-In Hybrid, Kuga EcoBlue Hybrid (48-volt mild-hybrid) and Kuga Hybrid (full-hybrid) variants.
The S-MAX Hybrid and Galaxy Hybrid share Ford’s latest full-hybrid architecture, introduced with the all-new Kuga Hybrid, incorporating a water-cooled lithium-ion battery mounted in a crash absorbent, waterproof structure beneath the vehicle’s underbody for the most efficient use of space.
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