MERCURY

New for MERCURY Milan Hybrid 2010

Much about the Mercury Milan Hybrid remains shrouded in secrecy. The manufacturer has yet to report its arrival date, anticipated pricing, or its mechanics. However, the auto press expects the Milan Hybrid and its platform-mate, the Ford Fusion Hybrid, to have a similar hybrid system to that of the Ford Escape. Some reports suggest the Milan Hybrid's electric motor will be matched to a 2.5-liter engine that makes 200 horsepower.

The conventional Milan should see a mid-generation refresh for the 2009 or 2010 model year, one that includes a new front and rear fascia and three new engines. There's also industry speculation that the new design elements will be present on the Milan's hybrid model as well.

The next-generation hybrid system features:

• New 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (155 horsepower/136 lb.-ft. of torque) running the proven Atkinson cycle mated to an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission or e-CVT.
• Intake Variable Cam Timing (iVCT), which allows the vehicle to more seamlessly transition from gas to electric mode and vice-versa. The spark and cam timing are varied according to the engine load to optimize efficiency and emissions.
• Enhanced electronic throttle control reduces airflow on shutdowns, reducing fueling needs on restarts.
• Wide-band lambda sensor analyzes the air-fuel ratio and adjusts the lean/rich mixture accordingly to keep the system in balance and to minimize emissions.
• A new smaller, lighter nickel-metal hydride battery has been optimized to produce 20 percent more power. Improved chemistry allows the battery to be run at a higher temperature and it is cooled using cabin air.
• An added variable voltage converter boosts the voltage to the traction battery to operate the motor and generator more efficiently.
• A new high-efficiency converter provides 14 percent increased output to accommodate a wider array of vehicle features.
• Smarter climate control system monitors cabin temperature and only runs the gas engine as needed to heat the cabin; it also includes an electric air conditioning compressor to further minimize engine use.
• The regenerative brake system captures the energy normally lost through friction in braking and stores it. Nearly 94 percent energy recovery is achieved by first delivering full regenerative braking followed by friction brakes during city driving.
• A simulator brake actuation system dictates brake actuation and delivers improved brake pedal feel compared to the previous generation braking system.

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