One of the most out-of-left-field bits of info to pop up in awhile, Next Energy News is reporting that Ford is developing a competitor for the Hybrid-only Prius with a similar Hybrid-only model dubbed "Escort." The goal is 100 MPG in a conventional Compact sedan layout.

http://www.nextenergynews.com/news1/...rt-hybrid.html

The renderings on their site, which look like photo-shops of the new Euro Focus, probably hurt this story. But overall it makes alot of sense. Prius sales are still going up, and having a hybrid-only model not only taps that market but also gives you alot of PR ammunition. And anyone who'd consider buying a Prius isn't likely to hold the Escort name against Ford.

 

Escort?

 

I want to see Ford (or any manufacturer really) make a true plug in hybrid. Most people drive 15 miles or less each way to work. The battery packs in todays hybrids are more than capable of going 30+ miles on battery power only. When you get home, plug it in and charge it up for about $1 in electricity. If you want to take a longer trip, your hybrid still has a gasoline engine that increases your range to maybe 300 miles...and you can always refill the tank.

That is the downfall of pure electric vehicles, limited range and a long charge time.

 

One of the problems with full plug-in hybrids is that not everybody owns a home. If you live in an apartment or condo, where are you going to charge up your car? Now you're suddenly talking about millions of dollars and a mandate to retrofit countless buildings with charging systems for every stall. I can't see it.

 

True, very true. The owner still has the option to drive it normally as a regular hybrid though. So it's not like they couldn't use the car, just that someone with a place to plug in could get more mpg out of it.

I have 2 power points in my Mustang, and not a darn thing to plug into them. I'm glad I have that option though, if I ever do get something I need plugged in. A lot of people use the power points...I do not, but it is there if I ever get something to use with it.

 

Radar detector...iPod...cell phone?

 

I do hope they change the name to something cool....but great news!

 

Another step for the manufactures, and the vehicle owners.

 

cool. I like the idea, the Escort name doesn't really bother me either...

 

its not the name....its the memories....

...kinda like dodge should never being back the "Rampage" nameplate....on anything.