Escape in world of Ford’s EVs
Get on the road with tech and choice, writes Dean Taylor
Ford is making a big impression on the EV world so it was fitting I be asked to drive Fairview Motors’ Ford Escape ST-Line X in PHEV (plug-in hybrid) form and the ST-Line FHEV (full hybrid).
We are already aware of the Escape’s credentials as an excellent mid-sized SUV — what the hybrid and EV technology adds is technology and choice.
Both use a 2.5 litre four cylinder engine. In the FHEV it is combined with a 1.1 kWh battery and is good for 140kW and a boost of torque. The PHEV gets a 14.4kWh battery to boost the power to 167kW.
Claimed fuel economy for the full hybrid is around 5.5l/100km while for the plug in it drops to under 2l/100km.
Energy recaptured through regenerative braking helps extend the range of the PHEV, plus it also has the ability to run as EV only for short distances.
An ST-Line trim Escape runs on 18” alloys and has manual seats and cloth trim. Step up to ST-Line X and ride on 19” wheels with electrically adjustable seats and partial leather trim.
And while the base 6-speaker sound system is excellent, a 10-speaker B&O audio system fills the cabin of the ST-Line X.
The vehicle is controlled from your fingertips — even down to gear selection and park brake.
Direction is selected via rotary toggle and the Escape has an electric park brake. Many controls are accessed via the infotainment screen or from the steering wheel.
Ford offer extra connectivity via the FordPass App, which you can install on your phone and use to control to locate, lock or unlock your car. It can even start the engine to warm or cool the interior to the last known setting.
FordPass Connect helps you on the road with live traffic updates.
The Escape PHEV and FHEV is
offered with Five Year Unlimited Kilometre warranty and Ford Roadside Assistance for 36 months.
The new Ford EV range has promised much and now vehicles are at the showroom waiting.