New Ford S-MAX and Galaxy Hybrid
Ford has announced that European customers can now order an electrified sports utility vehicle, the new Ford S MAX Hybrid, offering seven seats and an advanced, fuel-efficient full hybrid powertrain.
Hybrid Ford S-MAX
Through the use of innovative engineering solutions, it was possible to integrate an economical petrol-electric powertrain into the elegant and versatile S MAX body without sacrificing space, flexibility or an exceptionally sporty driving experience. The new S MAX Hybrid also reduces CO2 emissions by more than 10 percent. (WLTP) compared to its EcoBlue diesel counterpart.
The combination of a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine, a 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery, the latest generation Ford electric motor and powertrain makes it suitable for active families looking to reduce their CO2 emissions and enjoy a smooth ride. Electricity is intelligently used to reduce the fuel consumption of a gasoline engine, depending on the situation, or to ensure a quiet, emission-free ride over short distances.
The battery is charged automatically by the gasoline engine or by a regenerative charging system that operates during braking or coasting. The user does not need to use an external power supply, as the S MAX Hybrid is designed to perfectly meet the needs of the family - always ready to provide an electric driving experience, regardless of unpredictable scenarios.
The stylish S MAX Hybrid continues to combine a sporty exterior style with the functionality and flexibility of an interior. Easily configurable cargo space and seats provide up to 2,200 liters of space behind the first row of seats. 2 During recreational trips, the ability to tow trailers weighing from 1560 to 1750 kg, depending on the modification, may come in handy.
“The S MAX is an original sports car that will further appeal to a new generation of customers by offering a pure electric driving experience,” said Roeland de Waard, general manager, passenger cars, Ford of Europe. “Family-friendly innovations, from sporty driving to push-button folding on the seat, have always been an important part of the S MAX image. This makes the efficient and sophisticated new hybrid powertrain a natural addition to our portfolio, de Waard added.
For the first time, Ford is also offering a fully hybrid version of the seven-seat Galaxy model. The new Galaxy Hybrid uses the same advanced gas and electric drive technology as the S MAX Hybrid to deliver the same efficiency as diesel while delivering a high work culture.
Electricity without cables
The new S MAX Hybrid offers the space and flexibility of existing S MAX models in both five-seat and seven-seat versions by integrating a 60-cell lithium-ion battery into a waterproof, shock-absorbing structure under the cargo area floor.
The 1.1kWh battery uses a liquid cooling system that allows cells to be placed close together to save space. A specially designed dual exhaust system was routed around the traction battery, allowing it to be mounted as low as possible while maintaining the vehicle's practical qualities. This configuration allows the S MAX Hybrid to carry loads up to almost 1 meter high and more than 1 meter wide between the rear wheel arches. Even with the seven seats folded down, the boot volume is 285 liters.
The electric drive provides a smooth ride and superior driving experience that the S MAX did not offer. The regenerative braking system recovers up to 90 percent of the energy normally lost during braking and uses this energy to recharge the battery. The battery-powered electric motor can drive the front wheels on its own, providing a smooth start from a parking spot. This engine also provides short-term emissions-free driving in electric mode, especially in urban areas. The battery's liquid cooling system eliminates the need for a cooling fan. This reduces the noise level and increases the acoustic comfort in the cabin.
In addition, the electric motor works with the petrol engine, delivering fuel efficiency from 6.4 l/100 km and CO2 emissions from 146 to 147 g/km (WLTP), making the S MAX Hybrid an attractive alternative to EcoBlue diesel powertrains.
190 hp engine accelerates from 0 to 100 km / h in 9.8 seconds. Smooth, linear acceleration, in keeping with the sporty character of the S MAX, is achieved by a redesigned engine-generator control unit that automatically switches between pure electric, hybrid and petrol power modes without driver input.
Ford's power-distributed transmission is also equipped with simulated shifting, further enhancing the sporty driving experience. The system automatically adjusts engine speed as vehicle speed changes, increasing driver engagement.
Gear selection is controlled by a stylish and ergonomic dial with an additional mode that selects a higher level of engine braking when towing or descending for a more comfortable ride and more efficient energy recovery. The advanced transmission also allows trailers weighing up to 1,750 kg in the five-seat S MAX Hybrid and up to 1,560 kg in the seven-seat variant.
Driving Stress Relief Technology
Intuitive features displayed on the 10-inch instrument panel help drivers control and reduce fuel and energy consumption. A braking simulator encourages gradual braking to restore more power to the traction battery, and energy flow animations help drivers understand when they are using electric or hybrid power.
Every S MAX Hybrid passenger can enjoy the benefits of connectivity on the go with a standard FordPass Connect modem that provides Wi-Fi signal for up to 10 devices and allows drivers to plan faster and less stressful journeys with Live Traffic updates. for the navigation system.
In addition, FordPass Connect provides a range of remote features through the FordPass mobile app, including door unlocking, vehicle status and location, and an early warning system for road hazards. The system can provide information about hazards on the road even when the hazard is around the corner or in front of the vehicles ahead and the driver is not yet aware of it.
The 18-way adjustable seats, available in Trend and Titanium versions, are more comfortable for driver and passenger and are certified by Aktion Gesunder Rücken eV (Campaign for a Healthy Back), a leading spinal organization. The S MAX Vignale Hybrid features 10-way heated and cooled driver and passenger seats with a massage function.
All three second row seats are equipped with Isofix points for secure child seat anchorage, while the Easy Fold seats in the second and third rows make it easy to expand cargo space by folding each one individually using a control panel located in the trunk. Access to the luggage compartment with hands full of bags or with a child is made easier with the optional touchless tailgate opening system.
Ford Galaxy Hybrid offers first-class travel
The new Ford Galaxy Hybrid can be ordered with the same 190 hp petrol and electric drive as the S MAX Hybrid.
Offering seven passengers in first class as standard, the Galaxy Hybrid is available in Trend, Titanium and V-Line trims. It provides fuel consumption of 6.4-6.6 l/100 km, CO2 emissions in the range of 148-151 g/km (WLTP) and acceleration to 100 km/h in 10.0 seconds.
Like the S MAX Hybrid, the spacious Galaxy Hybrid offers the functionality of the rest of the Galaxy, including more than 1 meter of space from the seat to the roof of the first and second row seats, 2339 liters of cargo space behind the first row of seats. seats and a 300-liter cargo compartment with all seats placed. Seven seats.
Our new S MAX Hybrid and Galaxy Hybrid are just two of 17 electrified vehicles that Ford will introduce to European customers by the end of this year. “We offer a wide range of electrified powertrains – from mild hybrids to all-electric – which means every customer will find the right model to suit their lifestyle,” de Waard said.
Both the S MAX Hybrid and the Galaxy Hybrid are assembled at Ford's Valencia, Spain plant, which also houses a lithium-ion battery assembly plant.
Photo: Ford