In a press conference on Sunday, January 9th, FMC Chairman Bill Ford, Jr. announced that Ford was planning to add a total of six gas-electric-powered hybrid cars and trucks to the market by 2008. This was the final salvo coming out of a futuristic North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid SUV was named the Truck of the Year. Many dealers are reporting back orders of up to three months.

Mr. Ford stated that based on the acceptance of the Escape Hybrid, Ford has accelerated production of the Mercury Mariner SUV which will go on sale later in 2005 instead of 2006. The Mazda Tribute SUV will follow in 2007 and two mid-size hybrid sedans, the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan will be unveiled in 2008.

It is my opinion that the Escape Hybrid is not a perfect car but a customer will find it an acceptable alternative to other gasoline-powered SUVs for sale at the moment both from a standpoint of emissions and mileage.

I look forward to the expansion of the hybrid market and I totally believe that this embrace by FMC (and other manufacturers) will lessen the previously estimated bridge-time between regular gassers and Hydrogen or Fuel Cell vehicles.

Mike

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