Phoenix Arizona is the most livable city in the country for the outdoor enthusiast. Not only is the Phoenix Valley area warm year round, but the surrounding mountain ranges and nearby high country provide some of the most rugged and breathtaking wilderness landscapes in the world. An SUV is ideal for exploring these areas, but with rising gas prices and concerns over excess fuel consumption, Phoenix Arizona nature lovers may feel a bit frustrated in their search for a suitable vehicle. Bring on the 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid SUV.
Escape Hybrid was the first vehicle to combine SUV capability with the outstanding fuel economy and low environmental impact of a full hybrid vehicle. Escape Hybrid is a full hybrid. It can start off from a complete stop and can accelerate up to 44 mph on electricity alone, during light acceleration. No fuel used. And even when the gasoline engine kicks in, it maintains an outstanding 34 city mpg fuel economy in stop-and-go driving situations. Yet the driving experience is virtually identical to a conventional SUV. Escape Hybrid provides comfortable seating for up to five, a versatile cargo area and a variety of standard and optional amenities. You can even add an available Intelligent 4WD System for enhanced traction whether the road is covered with gravel or ice or soaked by rain.
The Regenerative Braking System recharges the NiMH battery each time you apply the brakes. When you apply the brakes in a conventional vehicle, the energy produced during the braking process is lost as heat. During braking in Escape Hybrid, the vehicle’s electric motor captures the energy and sends it back to the battery pack to be stored for later use. Thus, whenever you apply the brakes, you’re also recharging the vehicle’s battery pack.
The standard innovative Earth-friendly cloth seat fabric in Escape XLT and Escape Hybrid is made from 100 percent post-industrial materials — polyester fibers that would have ended up in landfills otherwise. Furthermore, the cushions use a bio-based polyurethane foam derived from the oils of various plant seeds such as soybeans. More than simply “green,” the durable, comfortable and stylish nature of the material also makes it a perfect fit for Escape.
Phoenix Arizona drivers can view and test drive the new 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid at their local Phoenix Valley Ford dealer.
