Can Detroit Build Hybrids?

Ford has hit a a big one over the fence with the 2010 Fusion Hybrid. This product has received great reviews from the automobile writers. The car is unexpectedly refined, gets great gas mileage and is fun to drive! This hybrid was actually developed in Dearborn with Ford technology. Ford's other hybrid vehicle the Mariner Hybrid uses a version of the Toyota Synergy Drive licensed from Toyota.

The Ford Fusion actually won a comparison test in Car & Driver versus the Toyota Camry Hybrid, Nissan Altima Hybrid and the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid. Click here to see the full article in Car&Driver.

The American companies have made a number of major management mistakes over the last twenty years. My opinion is that should have been investing enough money in product development and research and development. That would have produced better cars allowing them to compete effectively. Instead they were purchasing foreign brands that now they are forced to sell at bargain basement prices. So,it is comforting to see them developing some good products.