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Ford Advances Its P2000 Research Program

6 January 1999

Ford Advances Its P2000 Research Program With Hybrid, Fuel Cell and SUV Advances

    DETROIT, Jan. 6 -- Ford Motor Company is
highlighting developments in its revolutionary P2000 research program at this
year's North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
    P2000 was created to help Ford develop clean and fuel-efficient
technologies for next-generation cars and trucks while maintaining today's
safety, cost, performance and features.
    Developments include:
    * The debut of an advanced hydrogen fuel cell P2000 sedan, a midsize
family car.  The fuel cell P2000 car is designed to achieve the performance of
today's Ford Taurus, which goes from 0 to 60 mph in 12 seconds.  The fuel cell
stack, powered by Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells made by Ballard
Power Systems, and electric drivetrain are targeted to achieve the equivalent
of 90 horsepower.
    * The introduction of Ford's Low Storage Requirement (LSR) hybrid
technology.  The LSR hybrid electric P2000 will be less complex and lighter
than hybrids other automakers have demonstrated.  This LSR technology is
featured in a dramatic new display showing the DIATA engine, a
starter/alternator, an automatically shifted manual transmission and an
advanced high-power battery.
    * The introduction of the Ford P2000 SUV concept, a sport utility vehicle
with off-road functionality and truck toughness.  Lightweight, with a clean,
efficient powertrain, P2000 SUV has low rolling resistance tires and improved
aerodynamics.  This concept vehicle is also featured with a fuel cell buck
utilizing a methanol reformer.  The P2000 SUV represents one vision of the
future.