Mercury Mariner Hybrid SUV Emits Virtually No Pollutants

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Mercury Mariner Hybrid SUV Engine Specifications

The 2009 Mercury Mariner Hybrid is still one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs on the market. The vehicle uses a combination of a gas engine with a hybrid electric motor. The powerplant controls power between the engine and electric motor, which will decide when to turn off the gas engine when driving at speeds under 40 mph.

For example, when the vehicle comes to a complete stop, the gas engine automatically shuts down. This is when the powerplant decides when to use the electric motor. When the gas engine is running, it recharges the battery pack, which becomes automatic.

The gas and electric combination will provide the Mariner with an EPA-estimated MPG of 34 city and 31 highway when front-wheel drive is activated. Four-wheel drive will provide 29 city and 27 highway MPG. In addition, the SUV will emit virtually no harmful pollutants.

Mercury Mariner Hybrid Battery

The Mariner Hybrid has a 330-volt sealed nickel-metal-hydride battery (NiMH) pack which is quite advanced. The battery pack is located underneath the cargo area of the vehicle. The energy from the pack is used to start the engine and will boost acceleration at low speeds.

There is also an advanced feature known as the "Vehicle System Controller" which also shuts down the gas engine during coasting and at stoplights. This will provide additional savings on fuel while converting the electric motor to a generator during braking. This process will also recharge the battery pack and helps to manage the powertrain-related functions.

In traditional vehicles, braking is quite inefficient because you lose energy. This energy is known as heat. In Mariner Hybrid, when you apply the drum brakes, the electric motor functions as a generator and will capture some of the kinetic energy, sending it to the battery pack and providing recharging.

The Hybrid SUV engine is a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder. The engine includes an electric traction motor to deliver EPA-estimated mpg of 34 city and 31 hwy. If you purchase your Mariner Hybrid by September 30, 2009, you’re eligible for a tax credit of as much as $1,500. If you purchase a Mariner Hybrid between October 1, 2009, and March 31, 2010, the tax credits are reduced to $750.