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HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE Plug-in Power Mode and Hybrid
Mode (Fusion Energi Only) You must plug in your Fusion Energi vehicle
regularly for optimal use of the high
voltage battery's extended range
capability. When you charge your vehicle,
you add electrical energy that is then used
to propel the vehicle in plug-in power
mode. You can view your estimated
electric range in this mode from the
enhanced battery gauge on the instrument
panel display. The system maximizes the
use of electric-only operation in plug-in
power mode. System conditions may
require engine operation; however, the
system uses plug-in power whenever
possible.
When your plug-in power has been
depleted, the powertrain system will
automatically switch to hybrid mode. Your
battery gauge will show an electric range
of zero before transitioning to a simple
battery graphic upon entering hybrid mode.
Hybrid mode uses both the gasoline engine
and electric motor to power your vehicle
and maximize fuel economy as with Fusion
Hybrid.
EV Modes (Fusion Energi Only) E144814
Your vehicle contains selectable
EV modes through the EV button
on the center console.
These modes are available when the
vehicle can run under high voltage battery
power. With the vehicle in driving mode,
you can change EV modes with each press
of the EV button. The current mode
displays in the left hand instrument cluster
screen. Auto EV E155152
This mode provides an
automatic use of high voltage
battery power during the drive,
staying in electric mode when possible and
running the engine when needed. This
mode will be the only one available if the
plug-in power has been depleted.
EV Now E144814
This mode provides an electric
only driving experience using
plug-in power. The left-hand
information display will change to an
Energy Use screen that supplies EV specific
tools and functions. The vehicle may
accelerate more slowly and the top speed
may be lower than in Auto mode. Your
engine may be enabled at any time by
using one of the following methods:
1. Press the OK button on the left 5–way
steering wheel control while viewing
the EV screen. The vehicle will enable
the engine as needed, and will
automatically return to EV Now after
eight seconds or when the engine is no
longer needed.
2. Press the accelerator pedal fully. A pop
up message stating Press OK to
Enable Engine will appear. Press OK
on the left steering wheel button to
activate as needed. The message will
disappear if you release the accelerator
pedal.
3. Press the EV button. This will change
the mode to EV Later and permit
engine operation.
The vehicle may automatically enter
Engine Enabled mode if system conditions
require it. A message Engine Enabled for
System Performance will display if this
occurs. This is normal function, and your
vehicle will return to EV Now when
possible.
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The vehicle may enter Enable Engine mode
if the climate control is in a defrost mode
and the outside temperature is cold. A
message Engine Enabled Due to Defrost
will display if this occurs. If defrost is not
needed, select a different climate control
mode to permit EV Now.
When you enable EV Now, a blue EV icon
displays in the left-hand information
display. If the vehicle is in the Engine
Enabled mode, the EV icon will be yellow.
EV Now will automatically exit when the
Plug in power has been depleted.
EV Later E151263
This mode saves most of the
high voltage battery plug in
power for future use (for
example, your initial drive is at high speeds
on open roads, but later your drive will be
at low speeds in an urban area where
plug-in power usage is most efficient).
Your vehicle will run the engine as needed
and keep most of the high voltage battery
plug in power for later use in Auto Mode or
EV Now mode.
When you enable EV Later, a white EV
Later icon appears on the left-hand
information display.
The EV Later mode will automatically reset
to EV Auto mode when you power the
vehicle off. You may press the EV button
twice during the next drive to return to EV
Later mode, if desired.
Hybrid Vehicle Operation (Fusion
Hybrid and Fusion Energi)
This hybrid vehicle combines electric and
gasoline propulsion to provide
breakthrough performance and improved
efficiency. Familiarizing yourself with these
unique characteristics will provide an
optimal driving experience from your new
vehicle. Note: You may notice higher engine speeds
upon start-up. This temporary condition is
normal and necessary to heat up the cabin
and minimize emissions. E144692
Starting: When you start your
vehicle, a green ready indicator
light will appear in the lower right
portion of the instrument cluster and a
ready to drive message will appear in the
middle of the left cluster screen, letting
you know that the vehicle is ready for
driving.
The engine may not start because this
vehicle is equipped with silent key start.
This fuel saving feature allows your vehicle
to be ready–to–drive without requiring the
gas engine to be running. This indicator will
remain on while the vehicle is on, whether
the engine is running or not to indicate the
vehicle is capable of movement (using its
electric motor, engine, or both). Typically,
the engine will not start unless the vehicle
is cold, a climate control change is
requested, or the accelerator is pressed.
Driving: The gas engine automatically
starts and stops to provide power when
needed and to save fuel when not needed.
While coasting at low speeds, coming to
a stop, or standing, the gas engine normally
shuts down and the vehicle operates in
electric-only mode. Conditions that may
cause the engine to start up or remain
running include:
• Considerable vehicle acceleration
• Vehicle speed above 85 mph (137
km/h) However, the maximum speed
for electric–only operation may be
lower while driving in hot temperatures
or on hilly terrain.
• Ascending a hill
• Charge level of high voltage battery is
low
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• Very high or low outside temperature
(to provide system cooling or heating)
For Fusion Energi vehicles, climate
control demands by passengers may
not directly cause the engine to run.
This only occurs when the high voltage
battery charge is low, or if the outside
temperature is cold enough to require
the engine to provide additional heat
for the cabin.
• Engine not warm enough to provide
passenger requested cabin
temperature.
Stopping: The gas engine may shut off
to conserve fuel as you come to a stop.
Restarting the vehicle is not required.
Simply step on the accelerator when you
are ready to drive.
Transmission Operation: Due to the
technologically advanced,
electronically-controlled continuously
variable transaxle, you will not feel shift
changes like those of a non-hybrid vehicle.
Note: Since engine speed is controlled by
the transmission, it may seem elevated at
times. This is normal hybrid operation and
helps deliver fuel efficiency and
performance.
Neutral: It is not recommended to idle the
vehicle in position N for an extended period
of time because this will discharge your
high voltage battery and decrease fuel
economy. The engine will not start or stop,
and cannot provide power to the hybrid
system in position N.
Low Gear: Low gear (position L ) is
designed to mimic the enhanced engine
braking available in non-hybrid vehicles.
Low gear will produce high engine speeds
to provide necessary engine braking. This
is normal and will not damage your vehicle.
In low gear, the gas engine will remain on
more often than in position D.
Reverse: In position R , vehicle speed is
limited to 22 mph (35 km/h). Unique Hybrid Operating
Characteristics
Your vehicle behaves differently compared
to a non-hybrid. Here is a description of the
major differences:
Battery: Your hybrid is equipped with a
high voltage battery. A cool battery ensures
battery life and provides the best possible
performance. Your hybrid high voltage
battery may periodically re-condition itself
to ensure maximum efficiency. You may
notice slight changes in driveability during
this process, but it is an important part of
your hybrid's high voltage battery
optimization features.
The high voltage battery is cooled by cabin
air pulled into the high voltage battery
through vents in the rear package tray.
Avoid placing objects on the package tray
that could block airflow through the vents.
Engine: The engine speed in your hybrid
is not directly tied to your vehicle speed.
Your vehicle's engine and transmission are
designed to deliver the power you need at
the most efficient engine speed. During
heavy accelerations, your hybrid may reach
high engine speeds (up to 6000 RPM).
In prolonged mountainous driving, you may
see the engine tachometer changing
without your input. This is intentional and
maintains the battery charge level. You
may also notice during extended downhill
driving that your engine continues to run
instead of shutting off.
During this engine braking, the engine stays
on, but it is not using any fuel. You may also
hear a slight whine or whistle when
operating your vehicle. This is the normal
operation of the electric generator in the
hybrid system.
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During certain events (such as vehicle
servicing) your low voltage 12-volt battery
may become disconnected or disabled.
Once the battery is reconnected and after
driving the vehicle, the engine may
continue to operate for three to five
seconds after the key is turned to off. This
is a normal condition.
Braking: Your hybrid is equipped with
standard hydraulic braking and
regenerative braking. Regenerative braking
is performed by your transmission and it
captures brake energy and stores it in your
high voltage battery.
Driving to optimize fuel economy
Note: Having your engine running is not
always an indication of inefficiency. In some
cases, it is actually more efficient than
driving in electric mode.
Your fuel economy should improve
throughout your hybrid's break-in period.
As with any vehicle, your driving habits and
accessory usage can significantly impact
your fuel economy. For best results, keep
in mind these tips:
• Keep the tires properly inflated and
only use the recommended size.
• Aggressive driving increases the
amount of energy required to move
your vehicle. In general, you can
achieve better fuel economy with mild
to moderate acceleration and
deceleration. Moderate braking is
particularly important since it allows
you to maximize the energy captured
by the regenerative braking system. Additional Tips:
• Do not carry extra loads.
• Be mindful of adding external
accessories that may increase
aerodynamic drag.
• Observe posted speed limits.
• Perform all scheduled maintenance.
• There is no need to wait for your engine
to warm up. The vehicle is ready to
drive immediately after starting.
EV+ Mode
Your vehicle will recognize your frequent
destinations and allow for more EV driving
as you approach them. For example, when
nearing your home it should be easier to
stay in electric mode. The EV indicator will
display EV+ when this mode is active. You
should see this about 1/8 mile (200
meters) from a frequent destination. See
Information Displays (page 86).
Note: Frequent destinations are learned by
your vehicle after two to four weeks of use.
You can clear these destinations with a
Driving History reset through the Settings
menu.
Note: The EV+ feature can be turned on or
off through the Driver Assist section of the
Settings menu.
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Frequently asked questions AnswerQuestion
The high voltage battery is electrically isol-
ated from the rest of the vehicle when the
key is off. When you turn the key to on, high
voltage contactors inside the battery are
closed to make the electricity available to
the motor/generator and enable the vehicle
to drive. The clicks are the sound of these
contactors as they close and open during
start up and shut down.What are the series of clicks from the cargo
area when I first turn the key in the ignition?
The vehicle's computer will determine if an
engine start is required at key-on. Silent key
start will start the engine if it is necessary
for cabin heating, windshield defrost, or if
the outside temperature is low. (For Fusion
Energi vehicles, the engine may not be
required to operate these functions.)Why does the engine sometimes start at
key-on?
There are several reasons the engine stays
on for an extended amount of time when
you first start it. One common reason is to
ensure that the emissions components are
warm enough to minimize tailpipe emis-
sions. As the climate gets cooler, this
engine-on time is extended.Why does it take a long time before the
engine shuts down?
The engine is required to turn on above this
speed to protect the transmission hard-
ware.Why does my engine never shut down
above 85 mph (137 km/h)
In order to ensure that the climate control
system can begin heating the cabin or
defrosting the windshield as soon as a
driver requests it, the engine coolant
temperature has to be kept sufficiently hot.
Keeping the engine on is required to main-
tain the correct coolant temperature.Why does my engine stay on when it is
extremely cold outside?
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AnswerQuestion
Your vehicle's engine and transmission are
designed to deliver the power you need at
the most efficient engine speed. This may
be higher than expected during heavy
accelerations, and may fluctuate during
steady state driving. These are character-
istics of the Atkinson engine cycle and the
transmission technology that help
maximize your hybrid's fuel economy.Why does my engine rev up so high some-
times when I accelerate?
The fan noise comes from a fan located
outside the high voltage battery. This fan
turns on when the battery requires cooling
air. The fan speed, and associated noise
level, will change according to the amount
of cooling required to maintain good
performance. Maintaining the battery
temperature at optimal conditions also
prolongs the useful life of the battery and
helps to achieve better fuel economy.What is the fan noise I hear from the rear
of my hybrid?
Change the engine oil every 10000 miles
(16000 km) or once per year under normal
operating conditions.What is the engine oil change service
interval?
Your hybrid vehicle can use E15 (15%
ethanol, 85% gasoline) fuel, but you may
notice slightly reduced fuel economy
because ethanol contains less energy per
gallon than gasoline. Your hybrid vehicle is
not designed to use E85 (85% ethanol).Can I put E15 or E85 in my vehicle, and how
will it affect my fuel economy?
The high voltage battery system is designed
to last the life of the vehicle and requires
no maintenance.How long will my high voltage battery last?
Does it need maintenance?
There are no provisions for charging the
high voltage battery from a power supply
external to the vehicle. (For Fusion Energi
vehicles, the vehicle can be plugged into a
110-volt outlet with charge cord provided.)Can you charge the battery with a plug into
an A/C outlet?
Yes. Your hybrid vehicle can be flat towed
without modification. See Towing (page
213).Can I tow the hybrid behind my motor home
with all four wheels down?
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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WARNINGS
Do not overfill the fuel tank. The
pressure in an overfilled tank may
cause leakage and lead to fuel spray
and fire.
The fuel system may be under
pressure. If you hear a hissing sound
near the fuel filler door (Easy Fuel
capless fuel system), do not refuel until
the sound stops. Otherwise, fuel may spray
out, which could cause serious personal
injury.
Automotive fuels can cause serious
injury or death if misused or
mishandled.
The flow of fuel through a fuel pump
nozzle can produce static electricity,
which can cause a fire if fuel is
pumped into an ungrounded fuel container.
Fuel ethanol and gasoline may
contain benzene, which is a
cancer-causing agent.
When refueling always shut the
engine off and never allow sparks or
open flames near the filler neck.
Never smoke or use a cell phone while
refueling. Fuel vapor is extremely
hazardous under certain conditions. Avoid
inhaling excess fumes.
Observe the following guidelines when
handling automotive fuel:
• Extinguish all smoking materials and
any open flames before refueling your
vehicle.
• Always turn off the vehicle before
refueling. • Automotive fuels can be harmful or
fatal if swallowed. Fuel such as
gasoline is highly toxic and if
swallowed can cause death or
permanent injury. If fuel is swallowed,
call a physician immediately, even if no
symptoms are immediately apparent.
The toxic effects of fuel may not be
visible for hours.
• Avoid inhaling fuel vapors. Inhaling too
much fuel vapor of any kind can lead
to eye and respiratory tract irritation.
In severe cases, excessive or prolonged
breathing of fuel vapor can cause
serious illness and permanent injury.
• Avoid getting fuel liquid in your eyes. If
fuel is splashed in the eyes, remove
contact lenses (if worn), flush with
water for 15 minutes and seek medical
attention. Failure to seek proper
medical attention could lead to
permanent injury.
• Fuels can also be harmful if absorbed
through the skin. If fuel is splashed on
the skin, clothing or both, promptly
remove contaminated clothing and
wash skin thoroughly with soap and
water. Repeated or prolonged skin
contact with fuel liquid or vapor causes
skin irritation.
• Be particularly careful if you are taking
“Antabuse” or other forms of disulfiram
for the treatment of alcoholism.
Breathing gasoline vapors, or skin
contact could cause an adverse
reaction. In sensitive individuals, serious
personal injury or sickness may result.
If fuel is splashed on the skin, promptly
wash skin thoroughly with soap and
water. Consult a physician immediately
if you experience an adverse reaction.
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FUEL QUALITY Note: Use of any fuel other than those
recommended may cause powertrain
damage, a loss of vehicle performance and
repairs may not be covered under warranty.
Choosing the Right Fuel Use only UNLEADED fuel or UNLEADED
fuel blended with a maximum of 15%
ethanol. Do not use fuel ethanol (E85),
diesel fuel, fuel-methanol, leaded fuel or
any other fuel because it could damage or
impair the emission control system.
Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel
or fuel additives with metallic compounds,
including manganese-based additives. The
use of leaded fuel is prohibited by law.
Octane Recommendations Regular unleaded gasoline with a pump
(R+M)/2 octane rating of 87 is
recommended. Some fuel stations offer
fuels posted as regular with an octane
rating below 87, particularly in high altitude
areas. Fuels with octane levels below 87
are not recommended.
Do not be concerned if your engine
sometimes knocks lightly. However, if it
knocks heavily while you are using fuel with
the recommended octane rating, see your
authorized dealer to prevent any engine
damage.
Fuel Freshness Mode (Energi
Vehicles Only)
This feature helps keeps the fuel system
functional and the fuel fresh.
If you operate your vehicle mainly in plug-in
power mode using electricity from plugging
in without refueling, the gasoline in your
tank eventually becomes old. Old fuel can
damage the engine and fuel system. To prevent the fuel from becoming old,
your vehicle will automatically enter fuel
freshness mode. In fuel freshness mode
operates, your vehicle will operate in hybrid
mode causing the gasoline engine to run
in order to consume the fuel in the fuel
tank.
Note: If new fuel is not added during an 18
month period, fuel freshness mode will
consume fuel until about 1 gallon (3.8 liters)
is left in the tank.
During fuel freshness mode:
• The information display screen will
indicate that fuel freshness mode is
active.
• The vehicle will only run in hybrid mode.
EV Now will not be available.
• Most of the plug-in power will be
stored until fuel freshness mode is
completed.
Note: EV Now can resume if less than 1
gallon (3.8 liters) of fuel is left in the tank.
Note: In most cases, when the fuel level is
below 1/4 tank, refueling the vehicle will end
fuel freshness mode and EV Now will now
become available. Refueling after
consuming a full tank in fuel freshness mode
will end the mode.
Note: It is recommended to use a fuel
stabilizer if you consume less than a full
tank of fuel during an 18 month period.
REFUELING WARNINGS
Fuel vapor burns violently and a fuel
fire can cause severe injuries.
Read and follow all the instructions
on the pump island.
Turn off your vehicle when you are
refueling.
149Fuel and Refueling