Ford has begun production of its first hybrid electric car sold in Europe, the all-new Mondeo Hybrid.

Built at Ford’s plant in Valencia, Spain, the Mondeo Hybrid combines a specially-developed 2.0-liter petrol engine with two electric motors and 1.4 kWh lithium-ion battery for a combined fuel consumption of 4.2 l/100 km (56 mpg US) and average CO2 emissions of 99 g/km.

Going on sale across Europe later this year, the Mondeo Hybrid has two electric motors, one to drive the wheels and another to supply regenerative charging. Ford says the battery should last 10 years or 150,000 miles (241,402 km). The Mondeo Hybrid is priced similarly to diesel models, as Ford wants customers to see the hybrid version as an alternative to fuel-efficient diesel-powered Mondeos.

“Mondeo Hybrid offers consumers the best of both worlds, the enhanced efficiency and reduced emissions of electric power, and the range and performance of a traditional powertrain,” said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford of Europe. In its home market, Ford is the second largest manufacturer of hybrids, having already produced a total of 400,000 vehicles since their initial introduction.

In Europe, the new Ford Mondeo lineup also includes four diesel and four petrol versions with power outputs ranging from 125PS (123hp) to 240PS (237hp).

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