Ford to sell Escape Hybrid at a loss

[Rick]

Dead Link Removed

 

[addkev]

Wasn't it Henry Ford that said, "I could give away a Model T to every American, and still make a million dollars just selling parts."

That is good, I am glad to see that Ford isn't going to let the future pass by them.

 

[MO_GUY]

At least it won't be a 3 cyl. like the Honda Insight.

Wonder how fast it goes. They said it will be comparable to the V6 model.

 

[Alec]

I think it's a good idea. I know Ford isn't doing too well and more losses aren't great; but it will get the technology out there and hopefully create interest in Ford in general.

One interesting note: 35-40 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. I guess on the highway the electrics just don't help much. I think they mainly help in accel. They do say it's gonna have the performance of the V6, which is very good. However, flogging it most likely will not result in good mileage, even with the electrics. But it is good to see a hybrid vehicle that is just as capable as it's conventional counterpart.

 

[addkev]

Yeah, the problem with electric motors is that all their power (torque) is at start up, once the motor is turning, there isn't much power (horsepower) to keep it going.

 

[ahhjaws]

I think it would be interesting to see a hybrid Explorer.

 

[zensius]

My fiance and I have been waiting for this vehicle for a long time. They keep pushing it off. I know they want to get it right, but others have been out for years. Lets go Ford get on with it.

 

[blichy]

Actually, it was originally suppose to come out this year, so it hasn't been delayed too much (and Toyota and Honda have only been out for about 1 1/2 - 2 years). A friend of mine is working on the program and says that it drives nice.

As for the mechanics, it is similar to the Toyota Hybrid--the electric works at start-up, and the gas works while cruising at speed.

While a little loss isn't good, it is rumoured that Toyota and Honda are selling their hybrids at a loss of $10-15K per vehicle .

 

[jssong]

my dad was and probably still is seriously considering trading in his 2001 pathfinder for the escape hybrid. he needs a car just to get around town.. so i think that would suit him just well