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In the automotive industry, going green is big. New eco-friendly cars are hitting the market, and scientists are developing interesting alternatives to gasoline and diesel engines. Now Ford’s manufacturing process is going green.

According to a press release, Ford is partnering with Detroit Edison, Extreme Power and the state of Michigan to install a 500-kilowatt solar photovoltaic panel system at Michigan Assembly. It will be one of the largest solar power systems in the state.

“The renewable energy captured by the project’s primary solar energy system will help power the production of fuel-efficient small cars, including Ford’s all-new Focus and Focus Electric going into production in 2011, and a next-generation hybrid vehicle and a plug-in hybrid vehicle coming in 2012,” Edmunds explains.

“With this solar energy system, we will be able to gain vital understanding about the integration of renewable power, smart-grid technologies and energy storage at an industrial facility,” Jim Tetreault, Ford vice president, North America Manufacturing, states in the release. “This project is a part of the transformation of Michigan Assembly from a large SUV factory to a modern, flexible, and sustainable small car plant.”

The introduction of such technology serves as an example of beneficial sustainable energy in an industry that expels a lot of pollution. Through its use, other automakers will see that they can save money, about $160,000 annually according to Ford’s press release, and save the earth simultaneously. Ford will install the eco-friendly system later this year.

If you’re in the market for a new car, check out the U.S. News rankings of this year’s best cars as well as this month’s best car deals.