Ford is working on a new hybrid powertrain for their Ford Fusion that will gain in miles per gallon output, while costing less. How is that even possible? Future models coming to Veterans Ford in Metairie, LA will include this new engine, that (according to the auto maker) "will cost 30 percent less."¹

How exactly does Ford achieve this? Well, first off they don't use one hybrid engine, they use two!

Ford's hybrid system actually utilizes two electric motors -- one as a generator, the other one to drive the car. Linked to the gas engine is a gearset, called a "torque-split device." This acts as a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and diverts power between the gas engine and the electric motor.

Rumors online suggest this new powertrain could be implemented as soon as next year, though it is more likely Ford will test it for longer, and have it in production models before 2014 - 2015.

Source: ¹http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/11/new-hybrid-system-on-ford-c-max-hybrid-and-plug-in-will-be-cheaper-but-better.html