Ford Escape Hybrid Lives - Ford Forums

Stacy94PGT · 12-13-2002, 10:13

The Daily Auto Insider/ Car and Driver
December 12, 2002

News of the death of the Ford Escape Hybrid SUV has been greatly exaggerated, according to Ford.

Responding to an Associated Press report, cited by the Daily Auto Insider, which said the Escort Hybrid would not go into production, a Ford spokesman said, "It is absolutely wrong to think we are canceling this break-through vehicle. The Escape Hybrid will be built at Kansas City Assembly beginning late next year."
In a further statement Ford said:

"The Ford Escape Hybrid remains on track and on target to be the industry's no-compromise SUV hybrid when low-volume production begins late in 2003.
"With vehicles set to begin arriving in showrooms in the summer of 2004, the Ford Escape Hybrid will be both fuel efficient and practical, delivering between 35 and 40 miles per gallon in city driving. It also will be certified to California's Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) standards.

"The fuel economy and emissions gains come without compromising any performance. The Escape Hybrid is designed to provide the same acceleration and functionality as its 200-horsepower V-6 cousin. Four-wheel drive will be available, and the Escape Hybrid will have comparable ground clearance and cargo capacity."