Ford Escape PHEV
The Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid is an intriguing product that ties one of Ford’s best-selling models to the future of the brand. It offers guilt-free performance that makes going electric easier than ever before. According to the recently released EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) data, the 2021 Ford Escape PHEV will be slightly more efficient than the 2020 model year version.
“The original Ford Escape was the world’s first hybrid SUV and the all-new Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid represents how far we’ve come in technology and efficiency” , said Chief Product Development and Purchasing Officer Hau Thai-Tang.
Engine And Battery Of Ford Escape PHEV
The Escape Plug-in Hybrid SUV uses two sources of power to get you there more efficiently. An advanced electric powertrain that lets you make shorter trips of up to 56km on zero emissions, and can recharge anywhere you have access to mains power. For longer journeys, the conventional combustion engine ensures you can go as far as you need to, using powersplit technology to help recharge the Hybrid battery as you drive. While energy captured through regenerative braking also helps to extend your electric range even further.
The Escape PHEVs of the research fleet are modified Escape Hybrids. The production batteries were removed and replaced with high capacity lithium ion batteries. These modifications allow the vehicle to operate in the electric-propulsion charge depleting (CD) mode, minimizing the use of the ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) to peripherals and power assists. Once the high voltage battery has roughly one-third charge remaining, the vehicle transitions to charge sustaining (CS) mode, operating as a standard hybrid.
Exterior Design Of Ford Escape PHEV
The five-seater, front wheel drive Ford Escape PHEV measures 4585 mm in length, 1882 mm in width and 1679 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2710 mm and is featured with passenger and cargo volume of 2945 litres and 974 litres respectively.
Ford’s new Escape Plug-In Hybrid boasts an EPA-estimated 60 kilometres of electric range, and what Ford says is a ‘best-in-class’ fuel economy rating of 100 MPGe. Ford Escape PHEV features Ford’s fourth-generation hybrid propulsion system, which includes a new 2.5 liter Atkinson cycle hybrid engine situated on the front and is featured with continuous variable transmission. The liquid-cooled, 14.4 kWh battery is located below the second-row seats. Total output for the system is 209 hp, and it charges to full in just 3.3 hours with a 240-volt charger Level 2 charger.
Interior Design Of Ford Escape PHEV
Inspecting the interior we have Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system which is very easy to use. The touch screen’s menus are simple to navigate, and you can adjust audio and climate settings through physical knobs on the control panel. Standard infotainment features include an 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports, a six-speaker stereo, satellite radio, voice recognition, and a Wi-Fi hot spot. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is illuminated by a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, and HD Radio.Other refined features include ambient lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, a head-up display, rear parking sensors, active park assist, rain-sensing windshield wipers, lane centering assist.
Safety And Features Of Ford Escape PHEV
This PHEV is equipped with a host of safety and driver features including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection which detects pedestrians and makes a noise to alert them that a car is nearby. Blind Spot Information System, Cross Traffic Alert, Ford Pass, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go Technology and much much more. Thus Escape Plug-In Hybrid makes each journey more safer and enjoyable. There are two complete sets of LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) connectors for the rear outboard seats.
The rear middle seat has a tether anchor, and it can borrow lower anchors from the outer seats. Safety is further enhanced with airbags mounted on the front, side and driver knee positions of the car. It is also compatible with the SOS Post-Crash Alert System. It was designed to help draw attention to a vehicle disabled in an accident. The system notifies the driver by flashing the lights and actuating the horn. It can be turned off by pressing the hazard button.
Warranty And Price Range Of Ford Escape PHEV
When it comes to warranty, Ford Motors issue a basic warranty of 3 years or 60,000 kilometres and a Hybrid / Electric Warranty of 8 years or 160,000 kilometres. Roadside Assistance is also provided for a span of 3 years or 80,000 kilometres. Entry prices range from ₹ 25 lakhs for the base SE up to ₹ 30 lakhs for the Titanium. Those prices include a ₹ 92,000 destination fee.
“The global semiconductor shortage is presenting challenges and production disruptions for the global auto industry, including Ford. We plan to start Escape PHEV production later this year but will share more details later as we prioritize key vehicles for production, making the most of our semiconductor supply allocations,” explained Mike Levine, spokesperson of Ford Motors.
