The company Ford has been recognized for its constant innovation in automotive technology, with a focus on developing more efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. Over the years, it has implemented various solutions to improve fuel economy. One of the most notable is the Auto Start-Stop system, introduced in 2012 for the North American market. This system is part of its comprehensive sustainability strategy.
What is the Auto Start-Stop system?
El Auto Start-Stop is a technology developed to reduce fuel consumption when the vehicle is stopped. This happens, for example, at a traffic light or in traffic jams. Instead of keeping the engine running during these inactive moments, the system automatically switches it off and, when the brake is released or the clutch is pressed (depending on the type of transmission), the engine automatically restarts.
This dynamic and fluid operation allows to achieve Fuel savings of between 4% and 10% depending on the vehicle model and driving conditions. Even though the engine is turned off, essential systems such as air conditioning, heating, lights and radio remain active thanks to the vehicle's battery capacity. In addition, the system is designed to make starts and stops smooth, minimizing any interruption to the driving experience.
Applications of the system in hybrid and conventional vehicles
Initially, the Auto Start-Stop It was introduced in Ford hybrid vehicles such as the Ford Fusion and Escape. These models pioneered the introduction of this technology in the North American market. Over time, Ford expanded its integration to conventional vehicles, including different models of cars, SUVs and trucks.
The system has also been implemented in 4×4 trucks and commercial vehicles, demonstrating its versatility across a range of product lines. This underscores the importance Ford places on efficiency, not only in its mass-market cars, but also in heavy-duty vehicles.
A significant advantage is that The system is suitable for both internal combustion engines as well as hybrid powertrains, demonstrating the flexibility of this technology in different mechanical configurations.
How it contributes to reducing emissions and consumption
One of the greatest benefits of Auto Start-Stop It is the direct reduction of the CO2 emissions. Switching off the engine instead of keeping it idling significantly reduces the amount of polluting gases. This cumulative effect can be significantly positive, especially in vehicles that circulate in urban areas with heavy traffic and frequent stops.
It is important to note that the entire engine activation and deactivation process occurs automatically. The driver does not have to perform any additional action, making it a completely intuitive system. In addition, it does not affect the comfort of the driver or passengers, as the entertainment, climate control and safety systems remain operational.
Additional benefits and competition
Ford is not the only manufacturer working on energy-saving technologies. However, one area where Ford has excelled is in the thermal efficiencyIn recent years, the brand has developed and patented innovations such as the smart heated steering wheel, which improves energy efficiency by reducing heating usage by heating only certain parts of the steering wheel where the driver places his or her hands.
This system uses capacitive sensors to detect the positioning of the driver’s hands and optimize energy expenditure by heating only those areas. What’s interesting is that these systems are not only designed for electric vehicles, but also for internal combustion vehicles, demonstrating Ford’s dedication to innovation.
Another area where Ford has shown progress is in the development of the EV+ system, which optimizes the use of batteries in electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Through this system, Ford seeks to reduce energy consumption and improve the overall performance of its electrified models.
Impact and future expectations
The impact of Auto Start-Stop system will increase in the coming years as it is integrated into more models. Ford has indicated that it plans to incorporate this system not only in hybrid vehicles, but also in fully electric models. The company has already made progress in this area with the launch of its model Mustang Mach-E, a fully electric vehicle that has generated great expectations in the market.
Ford has set out an ambitious plan to ensure that two-thirds of its commercial sales in 2030 come from electrified models, whether plug-in hybrids or fully electric vehicles. This strategy underscores Ford’s commitment to sustainability and demonstrates that Auto Start-Stop is just one piece of its approach to creating a greener vehicle portfolio.
As regulations continue to tighten around carbon emissions and efficiency standards, technologies such as the Auto Start-Stop will continue to play a crucial role. What may have once seemed like groundbreaking technology is now becoming an almost essential feature in the modern automotive industry.
Ford is leading this transition by offering solutions such as Auto Start-Stop, which not only save fuel but also contribute to reducing carbon emissions. In doing so, Ford not only offers a direct benefit to its users in terms of savings, but also responds to the demands of a market that increasingly values sustainability.