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About the
Mercury Milan Hybrid
 

Ford's Mercury division is set to release Ford's fifth hybrid in 2008; the Mercury Milan hybrid.

This will be a midsize car. Early fuel economy estimates are 35 to 40 mpg in city driving.

Ford is truly beginning to have an international feel to it. Having acquired both Volvo and Mazda, Ford's newer designs are starting to incorporate design elements from these Swedish and Japanese designs. And that includes safety designs.

The Milan will have a greater emphasis on the strength of the frame. The B-pillars will use high strength steel welded end-to-end. Frame members will be engineered to absorb the energy in an impact in a controlled manner. Foam will be utilized to cushion the passenger in the event of a side impact. Side impacts are an area where occupants are particularly vulnerable. While side air bags are a big plus, additional protection makes sense.

Chief designer Darrell Behmer said, "the name ‘Milan’ connotes visions of a modern, fashionable European city, fitting the car's design theme and target customer like a fine Italian suit."

The hybrid version of the Milan is likely to use a power plant similar to that used in the hybrid Escape: a 2.3 liter four cylinder gasoline engine mated to an electric motor. Mileage is likely to be in the mid 30's.