Understanding the Shift: Why Ford Hybrid and Electric Vehicles Are Gaining Traction in Waco, Texas

The automotive world is changing rapidly, and Ford is leading the charge with new hybrid and electric options built for Waco drivers’ needs. As cars become greener and cheaper to run, Ford’s electric lineup offers real advantages for buyers who want to protect the environment and move toward what’s next on our roads. At our Bird Kultgen Ford dealership, you’ll discover why Ford hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) are the future of driving in Waco, Texas.

The Evolution of the Automotive Industry Toward Sustainability

Cars and trucks pump out more greenhouse gases than anything else in America — 28% of U.S. emissions in 2021, to be exact. This has initiated a huge shift toward cleaner options. EVs produce 50% to 70% less greenhouse gas yearly than gasoline cars and don’t spit anything from their tailpipes. In July 2023, EVs and plug-ins made up 9% of car sales, a 53% jump from the year before. EV sales will reach 1 million this year, driven by game-changing laws such as the Inflation Reduction Act, which is investing billions in battery and EV factories across the country.

Ford isn’t just talking about a greener future; it’s investing heavily in electric technology. The manufacturer’s green focus extends beyond the cars themselves, with policies that follow the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and requirements that suppliers adhere to these standards. Ford has also joined the First Movers’ Coalition, promising that 10% of its steel and aluminum sourcing will involve near-zero emissions by 2030.

Here in Waco, we’re already jumping on board the Ford hybrid technology bandwagon. The Waco Police Department purchased a Mustang Mach-E GT for just over $60,000 in March 2022 to determine its suitability for its fleet. The department now runs 25 EVs, all powered by 100% renewable electricity. Texas helps this shift with nearly 3,800 charging stations and over 11,000 ports statewide, backed by $440 million in federal money. Since September 2023, fully electric cars haven’t needed those annoying state emissions tests.

The Benefits of Choosing Ford Hybrids and EVs

Operation costs make Ford’s electric cars attractive acquisitions. EVs cost about $2 per 100 miles, compared to $8-$15 for gas cars, and you never need to change the oil. These savings are significant, particularly in the long term.

The planet also benefits. Electric cars pump out just 3,932 pounds of carbon dioxide yearly, while gas guzzlers emit 11,435 pounds. Plug-in hybrids (5,772 pounds) and regular hybrids (6,258 pounds) offer middle-ground options if you’re not ready to go fully electric. These cars mean cleaner air and quieter streets for our local neighborhoods.

Ford’s tech features put their electric lineup in a class of its own. The company’s hybrids don’t just cleverly mix gas and electric power to save fuel and cut pollution; systems such as Co-Pilot360 and hands-free driving make life easier and safer. With the FordPass app, your phone tracks charging, cools down your car before you get in, and checks how it’s running. If you’re curious about these perks, there’s plenty more to discover about Ford’s electric benefits and how they work for our Central Texas roads.

Diving Into Ford’s Lineup: Key Models Making Waves in Waco

The Mustang Mach-E combines sports car DNA with family-friendly space, embodying the spirit of the original “pony car” while incorporating SUV practicality. The 2025 models are available in Select, Premium, GT, and Rally variants, delivering power outputs ranging from 264 to 480 horsepower. They’ll go 260 to 320 miles on a charge, depending on which version you pick. They’re also quick: 0 to 60 mph happens in just 6.7 seconds for base models, 5.1 seconds with all-wheel drive, and a zippy 3.3 seconds with the GT Performance Edition package.

There are many reasons to love the Ford Maverick hybrid. This small truck pairs a 2.5-liter engine with hybrid technology, producing 191 horsepower while achieving an impressive combined fuel economy of 38 mpg. The 2024 Maverick XLT hybrid delivers an exceptional 42 mpg in the city and can travel 511 miles between fill-ups, making it ideal for daily drives or weekend getaways. For 2025, you can finally get the Maverick hybrid with all-wheel drive while still enjoying 40 mpg in the city.

Ford offers other great choices. The Escape Plug-in Hybrid manages 101 MPGe and a 520-mile range, while the F-150 with a hybrid powertrain achieves 22 mpg city/24 mpg highway and has a range of 704 miles. The F-150 Lightning revolutionizes the pickup world with its front trunk, adding 14 cubic feet of storage and the ability to power your house for three days in the event of a power outage.

Ford aims for half of its global sales to be electric by 2030, backing this ambition with $50 billion in investment. Plans include a new electric van in 2026 and two electric pickups in 2027.

Maximizing Savings and Incentives for Waco Residents

The Federal Government makes Ford’s electric lineup even more tempting. You can get up to $7,500 back on new electric cars through the Clean Vehicle Tax Credit and $4,000 for used ones. The Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit offers a rebate of up to $1,000 for installing a home charger, while businesses can claim a maximum of $100,000 per item. These breaks matter, since new EVs averaged $57,734 in early 2025, compared to $48,799 for gas cars.

The elimination of state emission tests in Texas is an additional benefit for Waco drivers. Although there are registration fees — $400 when you first register and $200 yearly after that — Texas drivers still love their EVs. With over 230,000 registered, we rank third nationwide. Our low electricity costs are a factor driving this demand. At about 14.6 cents per kilowatt-hour, they’re below the national average.

Local power companies provide further incentives for Waco-area EV owners. Austin Energy covers half the cost of Level 2 chargers with a rebate of up to $1,200 for homes, while SWEPCO gives $250 back for ENERGY STAR-certified Level 2 charging stations. United Cooperative Services covers half of your installation costs, up to $500. Add these local rebates to federal tax credits and lower running costs, and Ford’s EVs are significantly cheaper than gas cars over time.

Experience Ford’s Electric Future at Bird Kultgen Ford

Don’t just read about tomorrow’s cars; drive one today. Our knowledgeable team at Bird Kultgen Ford understands what Central Texas drivers need from EVs. We can walk you through each model’s features and help with financing and incentives. Whether you prefer the sporty Mustang Mach-E, the practical Maverick, or the game-changing F-150 Lightning, we’ll help you find what fits your life and budget. Visit our Waco, Texas, dealership and join the electric revolution. To schedule a test-drive, contact us online or call 254-666-2473.

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