Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid prototype 2009

The Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is equipped with a 10 kilowatt advanced lithium-ion energy battery supplied by Johnson Controls/Saft that stores enough energy to drive up to 30 miles (48 km) at speed of up to 40 mph ( 64 kph).

Ford, in collaboration with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), is undertaking a three year test program on the Ford Escape PHEV designed to develop and evaluate technical approaches for integrating PHEVs into the electric grid. EPRI has identified nine utilities across North America to test drive the vehicles and collect data on battery technology, vehicle systems, customer use and grid infrastructure. In total, Ford will provide 21 vehicles for the real-world trials

" EPRI brings our collaborative efforts related to the potential of plug-in electric vehicle technology to a new level," said Nancy Gioia, director of Sustainable Mobility Technologies at Ford. " PHEVs have great promise, but still face significant obstacles to commercialization, including battery costs and charging strategies. Ultimately such vehicles must provide real value to consumers."

Let us recall that Ford has announced plans to develop three distinct types of electrified vehicles - hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and pure battery electric vehicles. They include Battery electric Transit Connect commercial van in 2010, battery electric Focus passenger car in 2011, next-generation hybrid vehicle in 2012 and plug-in hybrid vehicles in 2012.

Texte Paul Damiens - Photos Ford Motor Company

Wallpapers of Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid prototype 2009 ( click on picture to enlarge)