Michigan is one of the states most severely affected by the current economic recession in the United States. Ford Motor Company is probably the least affected of the “Big Three” American automakers. Today, Ford has announced that the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has provided the company $55 million in tax credits to help the company bring four hybrid or electric vehicles to the domestic market by 2012.

“The first of its kind in the country, the law provides refundable tax credits to encourage companies to invest in electric vehicle engineering and advanced automotive battery research in Michigan.

“Ford appreciates Michigan’s proactive positioning in support of these advanced technologies, which we believe are at the heart of a new generation of vehicles,” said Curt Magleby, director, Government Affairs. “Incentives to help concentrate research and engineering related to electric vehicles in Michigan will help position the state to become a leader in this emerging technology.” (Source: Ford)

The vehicles that Ford is focusing on to meet this goal is a fully battery commercial van scheduled to be released in 2010, a full battery electric car in 2011 and a plug-in hybrid by 2012. Right now, Ford is preparing for the much-anticipated release of its Ford Fusion/Mercury Milan hybrids.

The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid will run on a Duratec 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve Atkinson cycle engine and has 156 horsepower and 136 ft-lb of torque at 2250 rpm. The vehicle has a 17-gallon fuel tank and based on the 41 mpg (city) fuel efficiency rating, a tank of gas could potentially last close to 700 miles.

Although the company is dealing with a battery shortage issue, the vehicles are expected to hit the dealerships in the next few months. Consumers that purchase the 2010 Ford Fusion or Mercury Milan Hybrids may be eligible for a $3,400 tax credit.

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Filed Under: Ford

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