Freep: Ford unveils new V6 engine/transaxle combor for better fuel efficiency

FreepFord unveils new V6 engine/transaxle combor for better fuel efficiency

Laying the foundation for a planned explosion in innovative hybrid gasoline-electric engines, Ford Motor Co. on Wednesday showed off a new 3.5-liter V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transaxle that will help future vehicles get better fuel economy and produce fewer emissions. The new engine produces 250 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque, and uses sophisticated technology for smooth, quiet operation. It's also been designed to accommodate advanced technologies, including gasoline direct injection and turbo charging. Ford said that 6-speed automatic transaxles improve performance and fuel economy. It's estimated that they save up to 7 percent of fuel in highway driving, which equates to nearly two tanks of gas a year, compared with typical 4-speed automatics.