Continuing to build pre-launch interest for the fall arrival of its new family of super-efficient compact crossovers, Ford has released additional information regarding the projected EPA numbers and range capabilities of its 2013 C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid. According to John Davis, chief nameplate engineer for Ford’s compact cars and utility vehicles, its first-ever plug-in model will have a stellar combined per-tank/per-charge range of 550 miles and be able to travel more than 20 miles on pure electric power, which is more than double that of the Toyota Prius plug-in. While its official mileage numbers are still pending, the C-MAX Energi is projected to will deliver a 95 MPGe combined EPA figure.
Like its 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid sibling, the C-MAX Energi is based on the standard-wheelbase Euro-spec five-passenger C-MAX platform and fitted with a 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine paired with an electric motor fed by a lithium-ion battery pack that collectively make 188 horsepower — 50 more than the Prius Plug-in. However, due to different operational characteristics, the battery in the Energi is slightly larger. The two vehicles also share loads of class-leading technologies, including the latest generation of SmartGauge with EcoGuide, Active Park Assist and Ford’s trick hands-free liftgate as well as the MyFord Mobile smartphone application that allows users to do everything from finding charging stations and remotely monitoring the charging process to planning trips and receiving various alerts using their smartphones or computers.
