To accomplish the four essentials of full-hybrid operation, a tremendous amount of technology is required, both electrical
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| What really amazes me is how unobtrusively and seamlessly all the technology works in bringing the two distinct power sources into sync. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
and mechanical - and I get that. But what really amazes me is how unobtrusively, reliably and seamlessly all the technology works in bringing two distinct power sources, one gas and one electric, into sync; ahh, if only human relationships could function so cooperatively. Human condition aside, driving the Escape Hybrid is very satisfying, once one becomes accustomed to complete silence at stoplights, and when operating on battery power alone. At one point during my travels, I found myself making a left turn across three lanes of very heavy traffic. When an opening presented itself, I slugged the gas pedal and hoped the little gas mill would fire up, helping thrust me clear of traffic bearing down quickly. Although momentary lag accompanies such
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| The Escape Hybrid is sluggish off the line, but once underway it can hold its own. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
manoeuvres, which can be palpitation- inducing when looking down the grille of a Freightliner, the Escape quickly got it together and burst forward. Well, it wasn't really a burst forward. The Escape Hybrid is sluggish off the line, but once underway it can hold its own. Its 0-96 km/h (0-60 mph) rating is 10.5 seconds. Undoubtedly, the Escape Hybrid's slow jump off the line contributes to what appears to be a fairly lethargic showing. However, I was impressed with its passing ability and hill- climbing gusto. Thanks partially to an electronically controlled, Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the compact SUV pulls smoothly and linearly from any speed.
