Starting the Vehicle
Driving the Vehicle
Unique Operating Characteristics
Two Drivetrain Choices
Four-Wheel Independent Suspension
Intelligent 4WD System
PERFORMANCE/HANDLING
This page is about:
2007 Escape Hybrid
Performance/Handling
9
May 2006
Escape Hybrid
Understanding how Escape Hybrid works will make it
easier for you to explain what customers should expect
when they drive it.
Starting the Vehicle
• The engine will start and run when you first turn the
ignition key to the start position
• The engine may shut off shortly after starting, depending
on temperature and battery state of charge — this is
normal and the vehicle should not be restarted
Driving the Vehicle
• Engine startup — The engine starts automatically as you
accelerate — sometimes immediately, at other times the
engine will delay starting up until reaching 25 mph
– Engine startup will occur if battery recharge is required
or acceleration exceeds electric motor capability
– If the battery is very cold or very hot, the engine may
engage sooner than under normal operating conditions —
this is normal. However, vehicle performance may
be reduced
• eCVT operation — There is no shifting like a traditional
vehicle — drivers may feel transitions between the operating
modes of the hybrid system, but no actual shifting occurs
• Stopping the vehicle — The engine may shut off as you
come to a stop — this is normal and helps conserve fuel. Do
not attempt to restart the vehicle
Unique Operating Characteristics
• Escape Hybrid is equipped with a battery air conditioning
system in the rear of the vehicle. Occupants may hear a fan
noise from the rear of the vehicle or a slight tap/clunk as
the vent door operates. These noises are normal and occur
when the system heats or cools the battery to optimize
performance
• Engine speed in the Escape Hybrid is not directly tied to
vehicle speed. Under certain conditions, the engine speed
may appear to be much higher than a conventional vehicle.
This is normal and is caused by the engine speed being
controlled to maximize fuel economy
The Driving Experience
Other Performance Attributes
There’s more to performance than an engine and transmission.
The most efficient, most responsive powertrain in the world
isn’t much fun if the ride and handling are ineffective. Be sure
to point out the advanced suspension system and the Intelligent
4WD System available on Escape Hybrid.
Two Drivetrain Choices
• Front-wheel Drive (FWD)
• Intelligent Four-wheel Drive (4WD)
Four-wheel Independent Suspension
• Precision handling and steering feel for excellent vehicle
tracking and stability when braking
• Each wheel absorbs bumps independently for smooth ride
and handling
• Nimble handling and maneuverability when combined with
Escape Hybrid’s exceptional powertrain
Intelligent 4WD System
• Automatically sends power to the wheels with the
most traction
• Always drives the front wheels and monitors vehicle and
driving surface conditions using signals such as individual
wheel speeds and throttle position
• Seamlessly sends power to the rear wheels as needed
to control wheel slip or to prevent it from occurring in the
first place
• Eliminates the need for a driver-operated switch
• Automatically monitors wheel speeds up to 5,000 times per
second to help avoid slippage
• Improves vehicle stability by reacting quickly to changes in
road conditions
