DETROIT, Jan. 10, 2006 (FCN) -- Ford Motor Company has packed some big innovations into a small concept car called the Reflex. Making its debut at the 2006 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), the Reflex features technical innovations like a diesel-electric hybrid engine and solar panels combined with advanced safety features like inflatable safety belts.
Explaining the reason Ford decided to concentrate on a small car, Peter Horbury, executive director North American Design said, "From consumer electronics to urban dwellings, small is becoming big in America. The design of the Reflex stretches the traditional boundaries of a subcompact car. Reflex delivers the fuel economy and flexibility that Americans have come to expect."


The fuel economy comes from the diesel-hybrid powertrain that also utilizes solar power. According to the company, this combination of power can deliver maximum fuel economy - up to 65 mpg - without compromising performance.


The concept features an electric motor on the rear axle in addition to the hybrid propulsion system on the front axle. The rear motor provides all-wheel-drive capability, improved driving dynamics and the fuel economy benefits of a full hybrid vehicle.


Reflex's energy is stored in a new-generation lithium-ion battery pack, using the same technology found in cell phones. Also contributing to Reflex's power and performance are unique headlamps and tail lamps that integrate solar panels. The Ford-patented battery-charging lighting system improves fuel economy by using the sun's power to charge the on-board batteries, while capturing and reusing the daylight at night.

The Reflex also demonstrates Ford push to provide greater fuel economy through the size of the vehicle itself.

"Ford Reflex is a small car that doesn't feel small," said Freeman Thomas, director, North American Strategic Design. "It is a gorgeous sporty car that delivers guilt free performance with a hybrid engine. And thanks to its innovative approach to the interior, it has space for growing families."

As an example, Thomas pointed to the concept's accessible technology. The vehicle's low-voltage circuitry is exposed beneath the glass roof and rear hatch. The roof also features self-powered solar fans that cool the car when parked.

"The interior of Reflex is modern, with no wood and leather," said Thomas. "The color and materials challenge many of today's dark plastic interiors by offering a blend of warm and cool colors. It is a fresh approach that will inspire future trends in many industries, including fashion and home furnishings."

The back seat offers the ultimate in small-car flexibility. A second-row "love seat" can accommodate two children or one adult. With a push of a button, a divider bar raises through the seat bottom, transforming one seat into two.

Advanced safety technologies include inflatable safety belts and BeltMinder(tm) for backseat passengers. The inflatable safety belt helps reduce injury risk to second-row occupants. Ford's patented BeltMinder(tm) technology alerts the driver when second-row occupants are not buckled up.


Reflex also is equipped with side air curtains. The love seat is fitted with an integrated rear-facing child safety seat.


Reflex designers added a strategically placed "baby cam" in the headliner. From this vantage point, the driver can see streaming video images of the rear-seat occupants.

And as a final nod to environmentally conscious engineering, the Reflex also uses ground rubber from scrap athletic shoes, called Nike Grind, as insulation to reduce noise and vibration in the car's interior.

 

that just totally defies logic. Miller and I were just talking about this. Having an electric AND diesel is just counterproductive...i guess they are just using the electric motor as an AWD system and potential slow-roll situations...

I know VW showed off a new 1.5L TDi that got 69mpg all by itself and still made more power than the 1.9L tdi I've already got.