Ford's Green Campaign Gets Aggressive

Published February 12, 2009

Tags: Business Operations, Energy & Climate, More... Business Operations, Energy & Climate, Fleets

Ailing car company Ford is turning to renewable energy and fuel efficiency in an attempt to get back on its feet.

In the past few weeks, Ford has introduced plans to roll out electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV). A battery-powered commercial van will be released in 2010, a battery-powered car will come out in 2011, and a PHEV is scheduled for a 2012 unveiling.

Ford is not new to the hybrid scene— the company launched the first US-made hybrid 5 years ago—but the Escape SUV hybrid was overtaken long ago by cars like the Prius.

I had the chance to visit Ford's Headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, this past August, and I can attest that the company's efforts are genuine. In addition to pursing electric and PHEV vehicles, the company is also working on incorporating green materials like soy-based foam and Indian grass into its cars.

Ariel Schwartz is a blogger for GreenBiz.com and the editor of Cleantechnica.com. A graduate of Vassar College, she has previously worked in marketing, organic farming, and newspaper journalism.

Good for Ford!

Anonymous, February 13, 2009 - 04:46

Ford is truly leading the way among American car manufacturers.

Ford also said "No!" to bailouts - showing true American spirit.

Whereas GM limps along, asking for a bailout that's 8 times the net worth of the company.

Congress could have fully funded eight electric car company start-ups for the price of the bailout they gave GM.

There was zero merit to giving GM a bailout other than keeping overpriced union workers in their jobs.

So that's what Congress does - they reward GM's poor management by giving them a massive bailout while Ford has the guts to say "NO!" to bailouts.

Meanwhile the Japanese car manufacturers get no consideration at all. The Japanese (I hope) would be too proud to take a handout.

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