# Ford’s Auto Start-Stop system will be available for North American cars and utilities in 2012

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2010/12/ford-start-stop-saving-fuel-in-north-america/
- Published: 2010-12-30T15:14:22-05:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

## Ford Brings Fuel-Saving Auto Start-Stop Technology to North America in 2012

### December 2010 — Dearborn, MI

Ford Motor Company announced it would roll out its auto start-stop system to gasoline-
powered cars, crossovers, and SUVs in North America by 2012. Already popular in 
Europe, this fuel-saving technology helps improve mileage by automatically shutting
off the engine when the vehicle stops—such as at traffic lights or in stop-and-go
traffic.

Then, when the driver lifts their foot from the brake, the [engine restarts](https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/02/with-gas-prices-on-the-rise-smart-driving-means-avings/)
instantly. This smooth, nearly invisible feature saves fuel, reduces emissions, 
and enhances driving efficiency—without changing how the car drives.

### Proven Technology with Immediate Impact

Ford has already used start-stop systems successfully in Europe and Asia, primarily
on diesel and hybrid vehicles. However, the North American launch marks the first
time the company will bring the technology to conventional gasoline models in the
U.S. and Canada.

![Close up of a ford vehicle dashboard showing the illuminated auto start stop indicator
with gear selector and speedometer in view](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/
wp-content/uploads/2010/12/1770A8CE-BC71-4175-8EFF-118ADFE4B1A5.png?resize=780%2C780&
quality=50&ssl=1 "1770A8CE-BC71-4175-8EFF-118ADFE4B1A5 - The Green Living Guy")

Fords Auto Start Stop system shuts off the engine when the car is stopped to save
fuel and reduce emissions restarting instantly when the driver accelerates

Because the average driver spends a significant amount of time idling in traffic,
the potential for fuel savings is real. Ford estimates up to 10 percent better fuel
economy in city driving—without any need for driver input or special operation.

### How It Works

The system is simple yet smart. When the car comes to a complete stop, the engine
shuts down automatically. Meanwhile, all essential functions—such as the air conditioning,
radio, and power steering—continue running on battery power. Then, as soon as the
brake is released or the accelerator is pressed, the engine restarts in less than
a second.

Ford’s start-stop is engineered for seamless restarts. In fact, most drivers may
not even notice it’s there—except at the gas pump.

### Part of Ford’s Broader Green Strategy

This move is part of Ford’s broader sustainability plan. The company had already
committed to improving fleet-wide fuel economy by investing in EcoBoost engines,
hybrid systems, electric vehicles, and lightweight materials. Adding start-stop 
tech complements those goals.

Even better, Ford planned to keep costs low. The start-stop system would be relatively
inexpensive—adding minimal cost compared to the potential fuel savings over time.

### Why It Matters

As fuel prices rise and emissions standards tighten, automakers must find creative
ways to reduce consumption. Ford’s decision to implement start-stop on mainstream
vehicles shows that innovation doesn’t always require radical redesigns.

Instead, small, smart steps—like shutting off the engine at red lights—can lead 
to big changes. By 2012, millions of Ford drivers could benefit from a technology
that saves fuel, cuts pollution, and demands nothing in return but a tap of the 
brake.

Sources:

 1. Ford Motor Company Newsroom – [https://media.ford.com](https://media.ford.com/)
 2. U.S. Department of Energy – Fuel Economy Tips – [https://www.fueleconomy.gov](https://www.fueleconomy.gov/)
 3. SAE International – Start-Stop Technology and Idle Reduction – [https://www.sae.org](https://www.sae.org/)

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
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Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
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