1615 messages,
Last post on Apr 06, 2013 at 5:47 AM
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Ford Escape Hybrid Forum.
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Ford Escape Hybrid, Hybrid Cars
Sep 16, 2003 (4:59 pm)
Actually I see more Explorer's towing boats, than I see Expy/Tahoe's. Price wise, the Explorer is a bit more reachable to some, over the Expy, and considering the Explorer has the highest towing capacity in it's segment, then many do not need to ante up for the Expy.
I just noticed that error, I didn't mean to state Assist, Opps. But as I stated, the engine they were choosing for their hybrid, couldn't be use in other Ford applications, whereas the Hybrid Escape's system, can be implemented into the Futura, and numerous other FWD/AWD vehicles that will share the JV Platform.
The Explorer would have requires applications where RWD/4x4 configuration be allowed (meaning mostly trucks and SUV's in their line), but after their research and study, they found other methods might be more effective.
On a side note, they even canceled a light truck diesel 4.5L V6 engine engine, cousin of the 6.0L Powerstroke (nicknamed BabyStroke). That had to do with emmissions regulations that were to be phased in 2006.
Sep 16, 2003 (5:02 pm)
Facinating to watch you engineers dual....
I'm still a skeptic though. Don't see the Hybrid as a solution long term. I see more potential in the fuel cell. But short term, I think ANT's comments on transmission and engine refinement make a lot of sense. Especially in large applications.
#64 of 1615 Waiting for Fuel Cells, eh?????????
by jchan2
Sep 20, 2003 (5:10 am)
GM will have you waiting until 2031 for fuel cell cars. Just stick to the Honda FCX for fuel cells for now.....
Sep 20, 2003 (1:12 pm)
Well yeah but GM has always been the follower when it comes to new techonology. Let's look at their huge line of OHV engines, while everyone has or been turning to OHC. But they sware by them religiously.
GM has no real plans for fuel cells, that missed the boat on that, as well as a few other issues. Last week I was discussing that with someone, pertaining to a segment/market/trend that GM stated they would NOT follow. I just can't think exactly what it was.
Sep 20, 2003 (5:08 pm)
Oh, could have been just about anything new, exciting or trendy, ANT. Harley Earl must be turning over in his grave.....
And they have him introducing Buick SUV's now on TV. Have you seen it?
Sep 20, 2003 (6:03 pm)
> GM will have you waiting until 2031 for fuel cell cars.
> Just stick to the Honda FCX for fuel cells for now...
Until an automaker actually delivers a realistically affordable solution, don't give them too much credit.
The fuel-cell prototypes are just plain too expensive right now (anywhere from $500,000 to $1,000,000 each). And they are neither efficient nor reliable.
The clean vehicles are a bit of shame too, since all but two of them can only be purchased in California. (The two exceptions are Prius and Insight-CVT. Just look up vehicles that have a rating of SULEV or PZEV for details.) So even though they are a realistic option, you can't actually buy one from your local dealer.
JOHN
Sep 20, 2003 (9:37 pm)
> Ah, in comes the 2004 Ford Focus 2.3L PZEV, FIRST PZEV —
> partial zero-emission vehicle — to be sold nationwide.
But it wasn't available nationwide when it was originally introduced. For awhile, it could only be purchased in California and New York. It's nice to see they are now providing an opportunity for consumers to choose.
Also, "first" really doesn't mean much when the "second" will be available literally just days later. Both the 2004 Prius and the PZEV Focus will be available next month.
JOHN
Sep 20, 2003 (10:45 pm)
The devil is in the details, amazing how one SMALL little word can just change the whole meaning. But yes available days later where a few other's. But it's progress.
Ironically thru all this, Ford still has the most diverse alternative fuel efficient engines. Like the Flexible Fuel Taurus, Ranger. Gas powered Crown Vic, etc. etc. All are overlooked of course and cannot be compared to the higher efficieny of such hybrid systems. But as an example....
#71 of 1615 He, he, he....
by jchan2
Sep 21, 2003 (5:40 am)
FFVs don't prove a thing. They're there to help Ford sell more Excursions.