Ford Escape Hybrid Hits the Market
While there still is some debate on the subject, there is a good deal of consensus amongst the world’s leading scientists and researchers that emissions from conventional internal combustion engines are primarily responsible for the so-called greenhouse effect. The greenhouse effect is the result of the depletion of the ozone layer, contributing to a global warming trend that eventually may have horrendous consequences.
One of the main motor vehicle culprits accused of significantly contributing to the damage to the ozone layer is the SUV. However, there are now some SUV options that involve hybrid technology and thus release far less pollutants into the air when operated. One of the most anticipated hybrid SUV products to go into production was the Ford Escape Hybrid.
Ford introduced the Ford Escape Hybrid in the Fall of 2004. (The company will introduce a hybrid version of the Mariner in 2005.) Ford anticipates that the combined sales of both the Ford Escape Hybrid and the Mariner will be about 20,000 units in 2005. Although Ford doesn’t expect to turn a profit on the Ford Escape Hybrid for some time, the company maintains that it is committed to increasing the number of hybrid vehicles it manufacturers each year.
The Ford Escape Hybrid is the first vehicle in the United States that does combine the positive elements of the SUV with the fuel efficiency and environmental protection features afforded by hybrid technology. The Ford Escape Hybrid is far more fuel efficient than its conventional cousin.
According to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) official estimates, the Ford Escape Hybrid operates at 36 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway.
The Ford Escape Hybrid automatically shifts between its gasoline and electric energy sources based upon an onboard computer analysis of which resource will provide optimal efficiency at any given point in time.
As a testament to its efficiency and reliability, the Ford Escape Hybrid is being added to taxi fleets in San Francisco. Additionally, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has purchased a number of Ford Escape Hybrid SUVs to add to its own fleet.
The average sticker price of the Ford Escape Hybrid is in the low $30,000.
Get the facts before you invest in a hybrid vehicle!