Bold predictions for Ford's new hybrids?

Same production limitations as the Escape hybrid?

According to MotorTrend Ford will soon roll out new technology that will "meet or beat the competition in fuel economy." At least that's what Ford's president of the Americas Mark Fields is claiming.

A piece of that new technology will be some new hybrid vehicles, as Ford is prepared to launch both the Fusion and the Mercury Milan hybrids late this year.

Since Ford's hybrid system is largely leased from Toyota, does that mean Ford has figured out a way to make better hybrids than Toyota with the same technology? That seems more like marketing spin than reality. And, even if true, can Ford increase hybrid production to levels that will really mean something?

Toyota ups Prius production plans again?

70 percent increase in production?

If you've spent any time shopping for hybrid cars, then you know most hybrids are in very limited supply. Fortunately, in 2009 there will be some relief, at least for consumers interested in the Toyota Prius. The latest rumors claim that Toyota will increase Prius production by 70 percent.

Just a few months ago, Toyota suggested a 60 percent increase in production, so this number doesn't seem out of line. If correct, such a jump in production means that Toyota will be producing almost one half million Prius hybrids per year. Nonetheless, with the third generation Prius due out next year, even a half million Prii might not be enough.

Despite the mockery of hybrid critics just a few short years ago, Toyota's long claimed goal of achieving 1,000,000 hybrid sales per year early this decade now seems easily inevitable. So, how does that egg on your face taste, haters?

BMW Series 7 hybrid too expensive?

Coming in a hybrid version?

BMW is considering a new Series 7 Active Hybrid for the US market in 2009 which utilizes GM's dual mode hybrid technology, such as found in the Chevy Tahoe hybrid, according to InsideLine. Unfortunately, the new hybrid will probably fetch a price well over $80,000, and BMW isn't certain such a hybrid is worth producing.

Interestingly, this new BMW hybrid vehicle would be the first non-SUV to utilize GM's two-mode hybrid system, a system designed especially for large SUVs and trucks. While there is no doubt that the two mode system could be scaled down for smaller hybrids, there are questions about cost-effectiveness and whether two modes are really needed in small hybrids. Sadly, whether relevant or not, an $80,000+ dual mode hybrid doesn't help answer those questions - at least not in an optimistic fashion.