
HYBRID VEHICLE OPERATION
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.
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 your 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 your vehicle is on, whether
the engine is running or not to indicate your
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 your 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.
• Very high or low outside temperature
(to provide system cooling or heating).
• 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 your
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:
We recommend that you do not idle the
vehicle in neutral (N) for an extended
period of time because this will discharge
your high voltage battery, shut off your air
conditioning and heating, and decrease
fuel economy. The engine will not start or
stop, and cannot provide power to the
hybrid system in neutral (N).
150
Fusion Energi / Fusion Hybrid (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201705, Second Printing Unique Driving CharacteristicsE144692

Low:
Low (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 drive (D).
Reverse:
In reverse (R), vehicle speed is limited to
22 mph (35 km/h).
Battery:
Your hybrid is equipped with a high voltage
battery. A cool battery maintains battery
life and provides the best possible
performance. The high voltage battery is
cooled by cabin air drawn from vent holes
in the trim panels behind the rear seats.
Avoid placing objects at the vent holes that
block airflow to the high voltage battery.
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 speed 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. 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.
151
Fusion Energi / Fusion Hybrid (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201705, Second Printing Unique Driving Characteristics

Answer
Question
The engine is required to turn on above thisspeed to protect the transmission hard- ware.
Why does my engine never shut down
above 85 mph (137 km/h)
In order to make sure 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?
Your vehicle's engine and transmission aredesigned to deliver the power you need atthe most efficient engine speed. This may be higher than expected during heavy
accelerations, and may fluctuate when
driving at a steady speed. These are charac- teristics of the Atkinson engine cycle and the transmission technology that helpmaximize 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
next to the high voltage battery pack. This fan turns on when the battery requires
cooling air. The fan speed, and associated noise level, will change according to theamount 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 10,000 mi
(16,000 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?
155
Fusion Energi / Fusion Hybrid (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201705, Second Printing Unique Driving Characteristics

Some fuel stations, particularly those in
high altitude areas, offer fuels posted as
regular unleaded gasoline with an octane
rating below 87. We do not recommend
these fuels.
For best overall vehicle and engine
performance, premium fuel with an octane
rating of 91 or higher is recommended. The
performance gained by using premium fuel
is most noticeable in hot weather.
Do not use any fuel other than those
recommended because they could lead to
engine damage that will not be covered by
the vehicle Warranty.
Note:
Use of any fuel other than those
recommended can impair the emission
control system and cause a loss of vehicle
performance.
Do not use:
• Diesel fuel.
• Fuels containing kerosene or paraffin.
• Fuel containing more than 15% ethanol
or E85 fuel.
• Fuels containing methanol.
• Fuels containing metallic-based
additives, including manganese-based
compounds.
• Fuels containing the octane booster
additive, methylcyclopentadienyl
manganese tricarbonyl (MMT).
• Leaded fuel (using leaded fuel is
prohibited by law).
The use of fuels with metallic compounds
such as methylcyclopentadienyl
manganese tricarbonyl (commonly known
as MMT), which is a manganese-based
fuel additive, will impair engine
performance and affect the emission
control system. Do not be concerned if the engine
sometimes knocks lightly. However, if the
engine knocks heavily while using fuel with
the recommended octane rating, contact
an authorized dealer to prevent any engine
damage.
Fuel Freshness Mode (If Equipped)
This helps keep the fuel system functional
and the fuel fresh.
If you mainly use your vehicle in electric
power mode without refueling, the gasoline
in the fuel tank may become stale due to
aging. Stale gasoline can damage the
engine and fuel system.
Your vehicle automatically switches to fuel
freshness mode if you do not refuel your
vehicle with fresh fuel within an 18-month
period. Fuel freshness mode protects your
vehicle from potential engine and fuel
system damage caused by using stale fuel.
Note: If you do not add new fuel during an
18-month period, fuel freshness mode will
use fuel until approximately
1.2 gal (4.5 L)
of fuel remains in the fuel tank.
During fuel freshness mode:
• The information display will indicate
fuel freshness mode is active.
• The vehicle will only run in hybrid mode.
EV Now mode will not be available.
• Most of the plug-in power will be
stored until fuel freshness mode is
completed.
Note: EV Now mode resumes when less
than 1.2 gal (4.5 L)
of fuel remains in the fuel
tank.
Note: When the fuel level is less than
one-quarter full, refueling your vehicle will
end fuel freshness mode.
Note: We recommend you use a fuel
stabilizer if you use less than a full tank of
fuel during an 18-month period.
158
Fusion Energi / Fusion Hybrid (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201705, Second Printing Fuel and Refueling

2. Press the button on the driver door to
open the fuel filler door. The fuel filler
door can take up to 15 seconds to open
before you can insert a fuel filler nozzle. 3. Insert the fuel pump nozzle up to the
first notch on the nozzle A. Keep it
resting on the cover of the fuel tank
filler pipe opening. 4. Hold the fuel pump nozzle in position
B when refueling. Holding the fuel
nozzle in position A can affect the flow
of fuel and shut off the fuel nozzle
before the fuel tank is full. 5. Operate the fuel pump nozzle within
the area shown. 6.
Slightly raise the fuel pump nozzle and
then slowly remove it.
7. Fully close the fuel filler door.
Note: To close the fuel filler door, press the
center rear edge of the fuel filler door and
then release.
161
Fusion Energi / Fusion Hybrid (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201705, Second Printing Fuel and RefuelingE146221 E139202
A E139203
A
B E206912
AB E119081

Impacting Fuel Economy
•
Incorrect tire inflation pressures.
• Fully loading your vehicle.
• Carrying unnecessary weight.
• Adding certain accessories to your
vehicle such as bug deflectors, rollbars
or light bars, running boards and ski
racks.
• Using fuel blended with alcohol. See
Fuel Quality (page 157).
• Fuel economy may decrease with lower
temperatures.
• Fuel economy may decrease when
driving short distances.
• You may get better fuel economy when
driving on flat terrain than when driving
on hilly terrain.
163
Fusion Energi / Fusion Hybrid (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201705, Second Printing Fuel and Refueling

EMISSION LAW
WARNING
Do not remove or alter the original
equipment floor covering or
insulation between it and the metal
floor of the vehicle. The floor covering and
insulation protect occupants of the vehicle
from the engine and exhaust system heat
and noise. On vehicles with no original
equipment floor covering insulation, do not
carry passengers in a manner that permits
prolonged skin contact with the metal
floor. Failure to follow these instructions
may result in fire or personal injury. U.S. federal laws and certain state laws
prohibit removing or rendering inoperative
emission control system components.
Similar federal or provincial laws may
apply in Canada. We do not approve of any
vehicle modification without first
determining applicable laws.
Tampering with emissions
control systems including
related sensors or the Diesel
Exhaust Fluid system can result in reduced
engine power and the illumination of the
service engine soon light. Tampering With a Noise Control
System
Federal laws prohibit the following acts:
•
Removal or rendering inoperative by
any person other than for purposes of
maintenance.
• Repair or replacement of any device or
element of the design incorporated into
a new vehicle for the purpose of noise
control prior to its sale or delivery to
the ultimate purchaser or while it is in
use.
• The use of the vehicle after any person
removes or renders inoperative any
device or element of the design.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
may presume to constitute tampering as
follows:
• Removal of hood blanket, fender apron
absorbers, fender apron barriers,
underbody noise shields or acoustically
absorptive material.
• Tampering or rendering inoperative the
engine speed governor, to allow engine
speed to exceed manufacturer
specifications.
If the engine does not start, runs rough,
experiences a decrease in engine
performance, experiences excess fuel
consumption or produces excessive
exhaust smoke, check for the following:
• A plugged or disconnected air inlet
system hose.
• A plugged engine air filter element.
• Water in the fuel filter and water
separator.
• A clogged fuel filter.
• Contaminated fuel.
• Air in the fuel system, due to loose
connections.
• An open or pinched sensor hose.
• Incorrect engine oil level.
164
Fusion Energi / Fusion Hybrid (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201705, Second Printing Engine Emission Control

Illumination of the service engine soon
indicator, charging system warning light or
the temperature warning light, fluid leaks,
strange odors, smoke or loss of engine
power could indicate that the emission
control system is not working properly.
An improperly operating or damaged
exhaust system may allow exhaust to
enter the vehicle. Have a damaged or
improperly operating exhaust system
inspected and repaired immediately.
Do not make any unauthorized changes to
your vehicle or engine. By law, vehicle
owners and anyone who manufactures,
repairs, services, sells, leases, trades
vehicles, or supervises a fleet of vehicles
are not permitted to intentionally remove
an emission control device or prevent it
from working. Information about your
vehicle
’s emission system is on the Vehicle
Emission Control Information Decal
located on or near the engine. This decal
also lists engine displacement.
Please consult your warranty information
for complete details.
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)
Your vehicle has a computer known as the
on-board diagnostics system (OBD-II) that
monitors the engine ’s emission control
system. The system protects the
environment by making sure that your
vehicle continues to meet government
emission standards. The OBD-II system
also assists a service technician in properly
servicing your vehicle. When the service engine soon
indicator illuminates, the OBD-II
system has detected a
malfunction. Temporary malfunctions may
cause the service engine soon indicator to
illuminate. Examples are: 1. Your vehicle has run out of fuel
—the
engine may misfire or run poorly.
2. Poor fuel quality or water in the fuel —the engine may misfire or run
poorly.
3. The fuel fill inlet may not have closed properly. See Refueling (page 160).
4. Driving through deep water —the
electrical system may be wet.
You can correct these temporary
malfunctions by filling the fuel tank with
good quality fuel, properly closing the fuel
fill inlet or letting the electrical system dry
out. After three driving cycles without these
or any other temporary malfunctions
present, the service engine soon indicator
should stay off the next time you start the
engine. A driving cycle consists of a cold
engine startup followed by mixed city and
highway driving. No additional vehicle
service is required.
If the service engine soon indicator remains
on, have your vehicle serviced at the first
available opportunity. Although some
malfunctions detected by the OBD-II may
not have symptoms that are apparent,
continued driving with the service engine
soon indicator on can result in increased
emissions, lower fuel economy, reduced
engine and transmission smoothness and
lead to more costly repairs.
Readiness for Inspection and
Maintenance (I/M) Testing
Some state and provincial and local
governments may have
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) programs
to inspect the emission control equipment
on your vehicle. Failure to pass this
inspection could prevent you from getting
a vehicle registration. If the service engine soon
indicator is on or the bulb does
not work, your vehicle may need
service. See On-Board Diagnostics.
166
Fusion Energi / Fusion Hybrid (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201705, Second Printing Engine Emission Control