But the struggle to come up with new technologies doesn’t end with the engine and the gas tank. Technologies can be developed that can assist the driver to drive the car more efficiently.
That is the premise behind a new SmartGauge appearing on the new Ford Fusion hybrid. The gauge consists of two high-resolution full-color LCD screens on either side of the analog speedometer. The screen shows different levels of information from fuel and battery power levels to average and instant miles per gallon. The driver uses the information to drive the car more efficiently thus assuring better fuel economy. As the driver gets more and more efficient, the gauge grows a display of leaves and vines as a visual reward.
Four concepts are involved in the technology -- inform, enlighten, engage, and empower. The gauge informs about fuel level and battery status; the driver is enlightened by when the electric vehicle mode is active; the driver is engaged by the information on the battery output power that tells him how much energy is being used; and the driver is empowered by information concerning power-to-wheels, engine pull up threshold and accessory power consumption allowing him to fine tune his driving style to assure maximum efficiency.
The display will first appear on the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids which will be available in the first quarter of 2009.