By Richard A. Wright / Autos Insider
DETROIT - Lincoln-Mercury is counting new products in new segments to move it briskly into 2005 and beyond. It unveiled its Mercury Meta One concept car, the 2006 Lincoln Mark LT luxury four-door pickup and the "luxury entry level" 2006 Lincoln Zephyr sedan on Monday.
The Mark LT pickup was shown at the North American International Auto Show with a custom-built Mark LT chopper, made by the Orange County Choppers. The custom bike will be featured in upcoming episodes of the Discovery Channel's hit series "American Chopper."
The new Meta One concept is a twin turbo V-6 diesel hybrid. Ford describes it as the world's first PZEV-capable diesel hybrid powertrain, which provides high torque and meets the strictest of emission standards while achieving excellent fuel economy.
The Meta One uses a video-camera and radar system working together in a "Collision Mitigation by Braking" system to detect collision threats, warn the driver and apply the brakes if a crash is imminent.
The 2006 Lincoln Zephyr revives a classic Lincoln nameplate, now affixed to a mid-size five-passenger sedan designed to offer the younger buyer a luxury automobile with Lincoln comfort and refinement.
Ford said its tie-in with Sirius satellite radio will result in about 80 percent of Ford Motor Co. vehicles equipped with Sirius in 2006 and 2007.