What is it? Hybrid vehicles are known to be quiet. But none has had a quieter launch than the Mercury Mariner, sold on the Internet since July 2005. Dealers are getting little advertising support, and no ad campaigns are planned. Why the silence? Supplies of batteries and transmissions, both of which are sourced from Japan, are tight. Ford is developing its own transmission and other components, and lining up battery supplies from North America. Until all that is in place, Mariner sales goals are modest, with only 2000 units projected for the 2006 model year. Mechanically, the Mariner hybrid is virtually identical to the Ford Escape, but available only with all-wheel drive. A plusher interior and guaranteed exclusivity are the only other differences. Power comes from a 2.3-liter gasoline engine paired with a 70-kilowatt electric motor, both mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Prices start at $29,840.
What is new or notable? Ford plans to offer a hybrid powertrain option on half its American lineup by 2010, with a goal of 250,000 unit sales a year by then.
