Ford is planning to introduce new technology on its new model Explorer off-roader that automatically shuts the engine off when the vehicle is stationary, writes David Duffy.

Called an integrated starter-generator (or ISG), the system will allow the engine to shut off automatically when the vehicle is stationary and start again immediately when power is needed.

Ford said the transition from stop to start will be completely transparent to the driver.

The feature will help the Explorer achieve fuel economy unprecedented in a vehicle with its combination of luxury and off-road ability, and pave the way for future green technologies.

Originally shown in Ford Motor Company's P2000 HEV concept car, this technology will debut in the Ford Explorer soon after the recently announced Ford Maverick hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) is introduced in 2003.

However, unlike the Maverick HEV a full hybrid that will combine an electric motor and four-cylinder petrol engine the ISG-equipped Explorer will rely on an efficient V6 petrol engine with electric assist.

The system also paves the way for high-efficiency technologies such as energy-efficient, electro- mechanical valve train actuation.

With this, the timing could be easily varied under computer control, enabling more horsepower from a smaller displacement engine that runs much cleaner.