"We have to subsidize the price of the hybrid technology," stated Patil. "We feel it's important to get in the market for this technology and get feedback from customers."
Industry insiders have suggested Toyota and Honda have been selling their hybrid vehicles at a loss from day one, not exactly a good short term business model but one that sets the stage for profitable long term market share. Ford will do the same but with a much more functional, North American targeted SUV. They're definitely on the right track with the Escape Hybrid.
Specifications:
- Price (MSRP): N/A
- Body Type: 5-door SUV
- Layout: front engine, 4WD
- Engine (est): 130 hp (97 kW) 2.3-L, 16-valve, DOHC, Atkinson cycle I-4
- Electric Motor: 65 kW (87 hp) permanent-magnet
- Generator: 28 kW (38 hp)
- Battery: 300-volt NiMH
- Total Combined Output (est): 200 hp (149 kW), 200 lb-ft (271 Nm) of torque
- Transmission: CVT Hybrid Transaxle
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS (regenerative system) vFuel Economy (est city/hwy): 5.9 / 7.8 L/100 km (40 / 30 mpg)
- Emissions: PZEV
- Web Site: www.ford.ca
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