Ford will bring a plug-in hybrid model of its all-new Escape SUV to Australia in 2020. 

The Escape PHEV features a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine, electric motor and generator, and 14.4kWh lithium-ion battery, to produce 165kW. Ford’s first PHEV in Australia will deliver a fully-electric driving range in excess of 50 kilometres.

The Escape’s battery can be recharged using an integrated charging port and is automatically replenished on the move using regenerative charging technology.

Drivers can choose when and how to deploy battery power using EV Auto, EV Now, EV Later and EV Charge modes. When the battery reaches its lowest state-of-charge, the system automatically reverts to EV Auto mode – supplementing petrol engine power with electric motor assistance using recaptured energy to optimise fuel-efficiency.

Ford says that efficiency was a core element in every process of the Escape’s development. The SUV is built on the company’s C2 platform using materials that make the Escape ‘stronger, more rigid and electrification-ready’.

An increase in wheelbase enables a roomier interior, with with additional cargo and occupant space, in comparison to the previous Escape. Despite this, says Ford, the new Escape loses 90kg in weight against the equivalent existing model – weight loss that Ford says will reduce running costs while also bringing improved driving dynamics thanks to a 10 per cent increase in torsional rigidity.

The all-new Escape is 44mm wider and 89mm longer than the outgoing model, while the wheelbase has increased by 20mm. Inside, that translates to 43 mm additional shoulder room and 57 mm more hip room in the front seats, while rear passengers benefit from 20mm more shoulder room and 36mm more hip room. Despite a 20mm lower overall height, there is also 13mm more headroom for front seat occupants and 35mm additional space in the rear.

Further specification and Australian-market details including pricing will be announced closer to the all-new Ford Escape’s launch in 2020.

Source: Motor Trader E-Magazine (May 2019)

13 May 2019