2005 FORD ESCAPE HYBRID run flat

a whole new kind of SUV that combines electric and gasoline propulsion
nd efficiency. It requires no special fuels and never has to be plugged in.
ensure optimal performance from your new vehicle.
Unique Hybrid Operating Characteristics
Battery:The Ford Escape Hybrid is equipped
with a battery temperature management
system in the rear of the vehicle. This system
cools the battery in order to ensure battery
life and optimize battery performance. Youmay hear a slight tap sound as the vent dooroperates. In addition, you may hear a fan
noise in the rear of the vehicle. This is the
temperature management fan. These noises
are a customary part of hybrid operation and
do not require service. The hybrid battery may
go through a self–reconditioning process from
timetotime to optimize battery performance.
You may notice slight changes in drivability
during the reconditioning process. This is
an important part of the Escape Hybrid's
battery optimizing features.
Engine:The engine speed in a hybrid is not
directly tied to the vehicle speed. Under
certain conditions the engine speed, as indicated on the tachometer while driving,may appear much higher than that of a conventional automobile. This is caused byengine speed optimization to maximize fuel
economy. In prolonged mountainous driving,you may also see the engine tachometerslowly moving up and down. This is done to
maintain the battery. You may also hear aslight whine or whistle when operating your
vehicle. This is the normal operation of theelectric generator in the hybrid system.
If your 12V battery should become disconnected, you may experience engine
spin for 35 seconds after the key is turnedto the OFF position, for the next key cycle
only. The computer is relearning the start upcharacteristics of your vehicle.
Driving to Optimize Fuel Economy
As with any vehicle, fuel economy can be
significantly impacted by your driving habits
and accessory usage. To maximize fuel
economy, try to extend the length of
time you run in electric mode by lightly accelerating the vehicle. The longer you keep
the engine from starting, the better the fueleconomy you will achieve.
Please be aware of the following
vehicle functions which reduce fuel
economy performance:
Tire Inflation:Keep tires properly inflated and
use only recommended size.
Climate Control:With the climate control system
set to MAX A/C, defrost and defrost/floor mode
(the orange graphics on your climate control),
the gas engine will run continuously, reducing
fuel economy. The A/C mode is more
fuelefficient than the MAX A/C mode.
Driver Habits:Rapid starts (jackrabbit starts),
towing, and heavy loads all impact the
amount of energy required to move the vehicle. In general, better fuel economy isachieved during moderate acceleration and
deceleration, as opposed to aggressive
acceleration and deceleration. This is true
regardless of the mode in which you're operating.
Do not carry extra loadsDo not decrease aerodynamicsUse speed controlObserve posted speed limitsKeep engine tuned