DEARBORN, MI - Ford announced a 73-percent increase in U.S. sales of its hybrid models since 2008. For the month of November 2009, sales of hybrid vehicles totaled 2,361. 

Ford hybrid models include the Ford Fusion, Ford Escape, Mercury Milan, and Mercury Mariner. The Ford Fusion Hybrid has gained a number of recent accolades, including being named MOTOR TREND's Car of the Year and earning a spot on CAR AND DRIVER's 10Best list.

Strengthened car and crossover sales fueled Ford, Lincoln and Mercury's U.S. sales performance in November. Car sales were up 14 percent and crossovers were up 26 percent for the month, with total sales of 118,536, essentially equal to year-ago sales.

In addition, both Ford Taurus and Fusion sales increased 54 percent versus year-ago levels. Other Ford, Lincoln and Mercury cars posting increases included Ford Focus (up 24 percent) and Mercury Milan (up 40 percent).

Crossover utilities also posted strong sales increases: Ford Escape was up 51 percent and set a new November sales record; Ford Edge up 27 percent; Mercury Mariner up 5 percent. In addition, sales of the all-new Lincoln MKT crossover totaled 648, its highest sales month to date. 

Fleet sales are included in Ford's overall sales.