2005 Hybrid SUV Preview

Ford is leading the way with hybrid power in an SUV. That's right - Ford. Father of the Cobra. The Marauder. The GT. The Crown Vic. Executives at Ford have been talking about this day with great anticipation since 2001 - and, finally, the day is getting close to reality.

When it happens, it will be viewed by many as a major coup: Ford will grab the "practical hybrid" mantle from Toyota and claim it as a domestic prize. Ford calls the Escape a "no-compromise" hybrid SUV, and has plans to deliver between 35 and 40 mpg in the city, and deliver the attributes of the base Escape.

Like Toyota's Prius, the Escape Hybrid is a full hybrid, able to run on either its gasoline engine and/or the electric motor depending on which delivers the most efficient fuel performance.

The Escape will be available in front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. Acceleration will not be compromised, according to Ford, and cargo capacity will remain the same as the standard Escape. According to Angela Coletti, Ford spokesperson for the Escape hybrid, the vehicle will deliver V6 acceleration performance. The Escape hybrid is what she terms a "no compromise" vehicle, able to function on-road, off or in a typical towing scenario.

Emissions ratings are targeted to be SULEV and PZEV, which translates into virtually zero emissions. Ford has plans to be active after the Escape hybrid hits the street: up next for the blue oval may be a Futura hybrid sedan. The Futura is a new sedan scheduled to be introduced in 2005 as a 2006 model; no date has been set for a hybrid version.