Unique Driving Characteristics; Hybrid Vehicle Operation - Lincoln 2017 MKZ HYBRID Owner's Manual

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
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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.
MKZ Hybrid (CC9) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, First Printing

Unique Driving Characteristics

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.
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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). For
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.