Ford has announced that it will introduce advanced-technology gasoline engines to improve its corporate average fuel economy (CAFE).
Lincoln's MKS sedan is expected to be first to receive this new power plant next year, called the TwinForce engine. TwinForce uses advanced valve-train designs along with direct fuel-injection and twin turbochargers to provide fuel mileage similar to diesel, Ford says. The company also claims that it will produce the power of a V-8 with the economy of a V-6.
Later, the design will be extended to inline-4 engines in a variety of models by 2011. In about two years, deceleration fuel shut-off will be incorporated. It shuts off fuel completely when decelerating and coasting.
Another technology Ford is touting is the “Powershift” six-speed, dual-clutch transmission. This is expected to boost mileage further. Ford hopes to have 70 percent of its lineup new or refreshed by the end of 2008 and all by 2010.
