Ford Fusion Hybrid holds record for most patents

A patent analyst firm called The Patent Board found that Ford had the most number of significant technology patents, and most of them were implemented in the new 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid.

The 2010 Ford Fusion and Fusion Hybrid, which is America’s most fuel-efficient midsize sedan, has a record 119 patents.

The Patent Board recently issued its Top 10 Innovators in Automotive & Transportation Patent Scorecard™ for the fourth quarter of 2008, which ranks Ford above all other automakers in Research Intensity and Industry Impact. Ford’s Research Intensity score, which is more than twice that of the industry average, indicates the extent to which its portfolio includes patents with strong scientific support.

For the Fusion Hybrid, for example, teams of research scientists and engineers developed Ford-exclusive technologies that helped the vehicle achieve a certified 41 mpg in the city, 8 mpg better than the Toyota Camry hybrid.

Patents on the Fusion Hybrid pertain to technologies such as Ford’s new-generation hybrid powertrain and SmartGauge with EcoGuide digital instrument cluster that helps coach drivers to achieve better fuel efficiency.

Specific Fusion and Fusion Hybrid patents include hybrid technology, that allows operation up to 47 mph in pure electric mode, SmartGauge with EcoGuide instrument cluster that helps coach drivers on how to optimize fuel efficiency, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert to warn drivers of impending traffic while backing out using radars, the corresponding outside mirror and an audible alert is sounded, and the EasyFuel Capless Fuel-Filler System that eliminates the need to touch dirty gas caps.

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