Reflex Hybrid Diesel

The Reflex concept car from Ford delivers sporty style at 65 mpg with its diesel electric hybrid engine. Like gas electric hybrids the Reflex’s lithium battery is recharged by the engine and heat from braking but it is also recharged from Ford’s patented solar panels located in the headlamps and tail lamps.  Solar panels in the roof are used to power fans cooling the interior on a hot day.  Low voltage circuitry is exposed beneath the rear hatch and glass roof giving access while providing a technology fashion statement.

Reflex’s energy is stored in new generation lithium-ion batteries similar in technology used in cellular phone batteries.  Ford was the first automaker to produce an electric vehicle using a battery system in 2000 with the electric Ford Ka vehicle. 

The Reflex uses a Parallel hybrid type system.  Where the diesel engine and the electric motors together provide power to the vehicle.  Diesel electric hybrid vehicle offer more reliability and fuel efficiently over gasoline electric hybrid vehicles.  According to Ford the diesel engine powers the front wheels while the electric motor power the rear wheels.  This gives the Reflex all wheel capability. 

The car it three feet shorter than the Ford Mustang. The Reflex’s reverse butterfly doors and 20” wheels add to the cars sporty appeal.  The cockpit comes alive with a touch of a button.  The cool blue instrument cluster is made of organic light emitting diodes.  Shift paddles controlling the six speed transmission are tucked behind the steering wheel.

The rear seat offers to the flexibility of the Reflex giving room for one adult or two children.  Ground rubber from scrap athletic shoes is used to insulate the vehicle reducing noise and vibration.  Many feel the diesel electric hybrid offers a 15 to 50 percent increase in efficiency over the gasoline electric hybrid.

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