| By :
Craig Clemmings
The earliest American produced hybrid car was the Ford Escape. It was supposed to have its launch in 2003 but it really didn't officially debut until 2004. It was then, and is also now, a fully hybrid electric vehicle, and it can run on an electric motor, or with gasoline, or with both. Ford designed the Escape to have a good balance between power and fuel economy. Amazingly, the Escape has the ability to generate under one pound of toxic pollutants for every 15,000 miles while trucks produce 105 pounds on average and cars product 67 pounds. The SUV was the most well-liked type of vehicle back then in the U.S. so it was natural for Ford to make the first hybrid an SUV. This particular Ford hybrid looks like a typical car and has the performance capabilities, also. It didn't have the image-problem that Honda previously had with their earliest hybrid. American buyers were also impressed with Ford Escape and its much better fuel economy usage. The gasoline usage of the Ford Escape happens to be 30% better than its gas-only competitors with a 34/31 mpg rating by the EPA. It is then the right choice for shoppers who want a crossover vehicle with a good green value. The combination of the 153 horsepower four-cylinder gas engine along with electric motor gives the Escape its good fuel economy. The motors and generators supply constant adjustable transmission. As a result, the Escape Hybrid can run on just electricity at speeds up to 25 mph with a range of 40 miles. The discretionary all-wheel drive is provided in an uncommon way, by splitting power between the wheels using a mechanical differential. A lot of hybrids do the same, but utilize the electric motors. As a result of one of a kind design, the Escape does better off-road driving when compared with similar hybrid SUV's. Aided by the 8.5 inches of ground clearance, it is also great in just about any weather. The only negative about the hybrid is the construction is based on the 2001 gas-only model so it doesn't have the soft, bounding ride of the newer models. Even though the back-seat leg room is a bit tight for an SUV, it does have excellent viewing areas, and ample head room. The interior is extremely similar to a Ford Explorer than your standard crossover vehicle. Around 2010, the entertainment system was updated to feature SYNC voice control. The bundle also boasts HD radio and Sirius Travel link for information over satellite radio. If you need a genuine American hybrid SUV, then you may want to consider the Ford Escape. It hits the right equilibrium between fuel economy and comfort.
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