Ford intends many buyers of the C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid to be conquest buyers from other eco-friendly brands, and with this in mind is touting the C-MAX Energi - to be released in the US in the fall - as the most affordable hybrid on the market.

The company says it has cut the costs of its previous hybrid system by 30 percent, and that C-MAX buyers will reap the benefits. The company has brought "in-house" the developers responsible for creating many of its vehicles' design components. The Energi's hybrid battery and hybrid transmission systems, as well as its software, have all been developed within the company.

Global vehicle platforms have further reduced costs, as has the Michigan Assembly Plant's ability to produce gas-powered, electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid vehicles on the same line.

The price of the Energi begins at $33,745, and Ford notes a federal tax credit of $3,750 for hybrid drivers when it assigns a starting price of $29,995 in its latest press release.

"The Ford C-MAX Energi is within financial reach for those who want a hybrid, but is also something customers will want to reach for because of its unique look and amazing value," Michael O'Brien, a Ford electrified vehicle marketing manager, said in a statement. "It offers exceptional fuel economy, better features and a better price tag than a Prius plug-in hybrid, which we think will help make C-MAX Energi one of our most attractive vehicles for import customers."

The C-MAX Energi has a total range of 550 miles, and can travel 20 miles on electric power, Ford says. It has been available in gasoline and diesel versions in Europe since 2010, but will be available in the US solely as a hybrid.

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