This advanced feature is at the heart of Mariner Hybrid. Orchestrating many of the functions in Mariner Hybrid is the job of the Vehicle System Controller. Among other things, it shuts the engine down during coasting and at stoplights to save fuel, converts the electric motor to a generator during braking to help recharge the battery pack and helps manage powertrain-related functions.

Recycling is smart. Especially when it helps recharge the battery pack. In traditional vehicles, braking, while a great way to avoid a collision, is quite inefficient. You lose energy. In Mariner Hybrid, when you apply the brakes, the electric motor functions as a generator and captures some of the kinetic energy and sends it to the battery pack, providing recharging.

Have some questions about Mariner Hybrid? Check out this section for answers.

Are there any tax incentives available on this vehicle?

If you meet the requirements, you can qualify for a federal income tax credit of $3,000 on Mariner Hybrid FWD (front-wheel drive), and $2,200 on Mariner Hybrid 4WD (four-wheel drive). That’s a credit, not a deduction. Your tax obligation may be reduced by the award given.*

Complete information is available at www.fueleconomy.gov.

*Consult your tax advisor for the amount of credit you can claim. This information is provided by Ford Motor Company as a service, not as tax advice.

Where can Mariner Hybrid be serviced?

Service is provided through Mercury Dealerships.

Can this vehicle be jump-started?

Yes, absolutely. The 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid can be treated just like any other vehicle and jump-started.

Does Mariner Hybrid work in all weather conditions?

Yes, even in cold weather. To help validate the durability and reliability of the innovative power system, 170 prototype vehicles were thoroughly tested in five climate extremes on three continents.

Is Mariner part of the carbon-offset program?

Yes. Mariner Hybrid is produced under a carbon-offset program - a claim no other hybrid manufacturer can make. By funding U.S.-based renewable clean energy projects that reduce emissions elsewhere, Mercury offsets greenhouse gasses at its Kansas City plant by the same amount released during the manufacture of each 2008 Mariner Hybrid.

Should I plug Mariner Hybrid in to a wall socket for recharging?

No, the Mariner Hybrid never has to be plugged in to an electrical outlet. The regenerative braking system in the vehicle automatically recharges the battery pack.