Here in Southern California we have lately had tons of water. At my
home we have gotten nearly 14 inches over the past five days. I
continue to be impressed with the ability of the FEH to plow through 2
foot deep temporary rivers, some with inches of gooky sucking mud
underneath. With my AWD I can now feel exactly the moment it starts
pushing with all wheels. There is no hesitation except under EV, and
then it kicks in the ICE and I move. Even with the less-than-great
stock tires I have experienced no sign of hydroplaning. The down side
is that my MPG has decreased about 10% (but I guess up to the point I
was higher than most anyway). Also, in the morning, I get lots of
squeeking from my breaks until they warm up. Once the weather clears
I will check for signs of corrosion.

This thing is even better in bad weather than my old 1989 Bronco II
which I came to know intimately after 15 years and 250,000 miles. I
almost wish I had not committed to volunteering to give away my car
for three weeks. Apparently, it will be trucked to a test track in
Yakima, WA from Jan. 31st to Feb. 19th for fuel testing research by
the CRC. I had hoped that Ford might see some good will in donating a
few FEHs but at this point my Escape Hybrid might be the only domestic
hybrid amongst 12-20 Hondas and Toyotas. I am looking forward to
reading the test protocols and the research paper that is produced.
The knowledge I gain is worth the sacrifice.

I have now heard back from all the major car rental companies and none
offer hybrids in the US. I appreciate the advice on locating a TRAC
(Toyota). I will check into it. Today, Ford said they are not
selling the hybrid to rental companies. I think they are missing a
good bet. How many times does a customer (especially a high-spending
business person) rent a car and come back to buy that model for
himself? It is a good showplace.

Unfortunately, since my car would have to be in Washington on Monday,
I may have to go to our planned January 29th LA Area Hybrid Meet in a
Mustang GT. Darn. Well at least maybe I can plan a third rally race
where the fastest 0-60 will win. With or without I am looking forward
to it. See you there!

Mike

Mike Maline - Sdctcher
2005 Ford Escape Hybrid Owner
California School Teacher