What's the news?
The Ford Mondeo range has received a boost with the introduction of a hybrid version, priced from €32,745. It will be available from all dealerships across the country. The model has been in existence since sales of the current Mondeo range in October 2014, but only now has it been offered for sale in Ireland.
Commenting on the introduction of the car in Ireland, Ciarán McMahon, Chairman and Managing Director of Ford Ireland, said: "As this is the first hybrid vehicle launched by Ford in Ireland, this is an important step for us. We are sure that the Mondeo HEV will meet the needs of the customers who are looking for a more environmentally-friendly car but who do not want to compromise on space, driving dynamics, driving range and comfort".
It is the start of a new wave of electrified vehicles coming from Ford. The company states that by 2020 it will have 13 full or partial EVs in Europe and North America within the next two years, including a hybrid version of the Mustang.
The Mondeo Hybrid applies the same powertrain principals of other hybrids like the Toyota Prius. It is powered by a 187hp 2.0-litre petrol engine and an automatic transmission working in combination with a 1.4 kWh lithium-ion battery that is positioned behind the rear seats.
A dual electric motor setup sees one support the petrol engine and another to handle the energy recuperation under braking. Inside, drivers can monitor the energy usage and consumption on the car's infotainment screen.
Ford is claiming that the Mondeo HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) will return better fuel economy than the similarly powerful 2.0-litre diesel equivalent. According to official figures, the Mondeo HEV consumes 4.2 litres/100km versus the 2.0 TDCi 150hp Powershift's 4.8 litres/100km.
Anything else?
It is recharged via regenerative braking and doesn't require any plugging in or charging. Ford claims that the car's high voltage electric system is has been engineered to working-life standards that are similar to the company's traditional combustion engines and transmissions.
Two versions of the Mondeo HEV will be available, starting with the Titanium grade at €32,745 (including a promotional launch discount and VRT rebate). A more luxurious Mondeo HEV Vignale will start from €35,280.