Ready to further leverage the mileage-maxing potential of its EcoBoost engine family, Ford has announced plans to more than triple production in 2012 and increase the total number of vehicles that offer an EcoBoost option from seven to 11. The latest models to benefit from technology that contributes up to a 20-percent improvement in fuel economy include the all-new 2013 Ford Escape and Fusion as well as the forthcoming Ford Focus ST and the Taurus-based Police Interceptor, which will become the first-ever turbocharged law-enforcement vehicle. In addition, the 2012 Ford Taurus gains a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost option while the existing 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 remains  standard-issue in the high-performance Taurus SHO model.

"EcoBoost expansion and availability in high-volume nameplates such as the all-new Ford Escape and Fusion will take this affordable, fuel-saving technology to the heart of the market," said Sue Cischke, Ford group vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. "Ford is committed to delivering class-leading fuel economy for our customers, which benefits the environment and helps the U.S. move toward greater energy independence."

EcoBoost technology has proven to be a huge success in all applications to date, both cars and trucks. Buyers of Ford's best-selling F-150 pickup have become particular fans of the EcoBoost 3.5-liter V6 option, making it their motivator of choice in 42 percent of their purchases. It's also become a pivotal feature in Ford projections that by the end of 2012, no fewer than nine of its vehicles will earn EPA-certified 40-mpg or higher highway-mileage ratings.