Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid, picture Nick Zart
Ford has done very well so far introducing an award winning SUV hybrid with the Escape and the next logical step was to turn into it plug-in hybrid, PHEV. We test drove it at the LA Auto Show 2009 and were impressed.
The gist is that Ford has only one way to go with its hybrid Escape, HEV, make it rechargeable. With much demand for it, the company will introduce a plug-in hybrid, PHEV version of it by 2012.
Technically Speaking. The PHEV Escape is based on the HEV version with a different and beefier lithium battery pack currently rated at 10kW that gives it a 30 to 40 mile range on electricity alone. The electric motor will power it up to 40mph before the engine kicks in. The PHEV gets 120mpg and takes anywhere from 6 to 8 hours recharging on a standard 110V outlet.
The Escape Plug-In Hybrid Driving Experience. If technically the Escape is the same as the hybrid version, driving it is where you will find a difference. Driving a PHEV SUV or pure electric vehicle, EV is always a more positive experience than a regular gas one. PHEV or EV SUVs handle better due to their battery pack shifting the gravity center lower. The Escape was smooth and easy to drive in downtown LA. Under 40, you are only using the electric motor for about 40 miles or so. After that, the internal combustion engine, ICE Atkinson cycled switches on without much vibration and lends a hand. If the regular HEV version is a no brainer with 34mpg in city driving, we can only assume the PHEV will be an instant winner for those needing space and performance with economy.
The onboard led display gives all relevant information, with a smart trip manager that helps you figure out how much electricity you would need to get from point A to B, as well as if you were to use the gas engine. This makes a great savings tool to calculate the most economical way to prepare you trip.
The Escape PHEV is definitely proof that the company is building upon the success of the HEV version. It is everything you might come to expect from the it. Ford has yet another car with the Escape PHEV that cements its new reputation as a serious car company that blends quality, fuel saving and state of the art technology into a great package. Well done.
