Ford unveiled 2019 Puma Hybrid, to rival Proton X50

KUALA LUMPUR: The American automaker has finally unveiled the 2019 Ford Puma. The concept crossover gets the company’s new EcoBoost engine along with a sophisticated mild-hybrid tech.

Using Ford’s EcoBoost Hybrid 48V tech, the car delivers responsive and powerful performance with optimum fuel efficiency. The mild-hybrid mill seamlessly combines the 1.0-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine and electric torque assistance at a low-friction to deliver up to 155 PS. The said mill offers 131g/km of CO2 emission and a mileage of 17.24 kmpl.

The engine configuration mentioned above also features the company’s industry-first cylinder deactivation system for a 3-cylinder unit. This system automatically switches off one of the cylinders when full capacity is not required, like when cruising or coasting. The said system can re-engage or disengage one cylinder in 14 milliseconds.

Enhancing the 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol mill further is EcoBoost Hybrid tech 11.9kW belt-driven integrated starter/generator (BISG). The BIGS replaces the standard alternator and enables storage and recovery of energy that is usually lost while braking and charging a 48V lithium-ion air-cooled battery pack. This system also allows restarting the engine in around 300 milliseconds and enables the Puma’s EcoBoost Hybrid Auto Start-Stop tech to operate in a broader range of scenarios, thus calling for higher mileage.

Ford Puma also optimises the company’s B-segment architecture that now delivers class-leading driving dynamics for the Fiesta. Further, the optimised suspension, larger shock absorbers, new & stiffer twist-beam rear suspension, optimised suspension top mounts, and stiffer suspension bushes lower friction, and increase stiffness all over the chassis supports best-in-class driving dynamics.

The 2019 Puma also features advanced driver assistance tech that delivers less stressful and simple driving experience. Included in the list are -

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Speed Sign Recognition and Lane Centring
• New Local Hazard Information
• Hands-free tailgate
• Lumbar Massage Seat

Ford Puma will go on sale by the end of 2019 and will be produced at Ford’s Craiova Assembly Plant, in Romania,