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Ford hybrids don't require drivers to compromise continued from p.14 fuel economy with the EcoBoost engine lineup," Ross said. EcoBoost engines are available in most Ford vehicles. But, Ross reminds people Ford was not late into the use of hybrid technology. Ford introduced the first hybrid SUV with its Escape in 2004. The difference between now and then is the price has dropped dramatically and the compromise of owning a hybrid has been eliminated, he said. "Our pride is to offer vehicles that are no compromise. They also keep the same design, the same comfort and the same features as their gas counterparts," he said. In terms of pricing, the price premium for a 2013 Fusion hybrid over its gasoline version is $4,600 less than the premium had been for Ford's 2012 model over its counterpart. Ross said Ford buys battery cells from thirdparty suppliers, but assembles its own batteries, allowing it to save costs during assembly. Lithium is still expensive to buy, but Ross expects prices to go down and supply to increase in the near future. Because the price premium for buying a hybrid has reduced so much, to as little as $3,000 over the price of the purely gasoline-powered model, purchasing a hybrid is starting to make sense for consumers. "They're able to recoup their investment over a three-and-a-half-year period for a hybrid and probably around the five-year mark for a plug-in hybrid," he said. Ford is also working to shake the misconception that hybrid vehicles come with a compromise. "There's still a stigma with people about hybrid vehicles. They love the vehicle and as soon as they see the hybrid badge on it, they think this is not for them. They think it's not as exciting to drive, not as exciting to look at and not as comfortable. Well, these are the hybrids of the past," he said. "The enjoyment of driving is preserved in hybrids now." Ford's plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles also come equipped with software to help the driver become more energy efficient and it even allows driver's to keep mileage scores compared to other Ford drivers. The other finalists for the award were the Hyundai Sonata hybrid, Mazda's Mazda3 and Volkswagen's turbocharged clean diesel Jetta. 17 | Wednesday, April 17, 2013 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com Try the Y April 15-28, 2013 Get your FREE two-week trial pass Makeime family itve! act Experience the YMCA for two weeks - absolutely free! Take a tour and discover the benefits of YMCA membership. Valid only at the Peter Gilgan Family YMCA. Limit of one trial per person, per year. YMCA of Oakville Peter Gilgan Family YMCA We're Social! Scan to see our video overview! 905-845-3417 ymcaofoakville.com Just a few of our Featured Advertisers: BROWSE THE NOW AT Sign up for free e-Offers and get the inside scoop on the best flyer deals! { ® your source for FREE coupons { And many more money saving deals in our flyer section. FLYER @