Ford's first hybrid-only model as a minibus in 2012, optional plug

C-Max as a hybrid-only model in the US

Later this year, Toyota will launch the Prius V, a larger minivan-like Prius. Next year, Ford will launch its own minivan-like hybrid, the C-Max, and it will be Ford's first hybrid-only model, at least in the us.

Currently, Ford offers the C-Max in Europe and planned to offer a version of the 7-passenger gasoline powered C-Max in the us. Ford has since decided to focus on a hybrid-only version instead for the American market.

Unfortunately, early details are still a little vague. The hybrid 41 mpg + C-Max will be a hybrid version of the 5-passenger European C-Max, or the version of the 7-passenger originally intended for the US? My source, the DetroitNews, wasn't clear. But the 5-passenger version seems the most likely candidate.

For example, last year announced the Ford C-Max hybrids and plug-in hybrids in Spain starting in 2013 on the basis of the version 5-passenger to build. Since Ford's "one Ford" strategy aims seems commonality across platforms and countries, a 7-seat version unlikely in the short term. It's just not very one-ish (and an updated visit to Ford's website confirmed that the C-Max hybrid and plug-in hybrids will be based on the 5-seat European C-Max).

Nevertheless, I would leave to see a version 7-seat, as such a vehicle the book on minibuses can really rewrite.

Anyway, in addition to the hybrid C-Max, the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid is also due out in 2012. Both vehicles will be built next to the Ford Focus, including the electric version, and both vehicles will use lithium-ion batteries.

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