Hello,
First post... I have been reading the threads here for several weeks and am learning lots about the Ford Escape Hybrid!
I am a little disappointed with the mileage I'm getting with my new 2006 FWD FEH (w/NAV system). After reading the forums here, it appears that my driving pattern is far from ideal for the FEH, but I would like to get at lease 30 MPG if it is possible.
I live in an area in Southern California where the summer temperature averages 90-105F. I live about 12 miles from my office and my route is mostly on dairy roads (fairly rough surface streets with little traffic ~50MPH speed limits, a couple of traffic lights and a few stop signs). The total commute time is 18-20 minutes each way.
Oh, did I mention these were dairy roads... Nobody would want to open their windows and get that smell in their new FEH so my choices in the summer is recirculating AC or OFF with windows closed!
I have been trying to keep the ICE off as much as possible, but it always turns on at about 30
MPH so a good portion of my drive uses the ICE.
Also, I could replace about 4 miles of my commute with a very lightly used freeway if it would help increase the mileage...
After reading the hypermileage posts in the forum, I have tried to use some of these tactics to increase my mileage. I had a hard time understanding some of these tactics so I have implemented only the ones I thought I understood.
Here is what I am currently doing:
- Use AC only when required.<<
- Slow starts using the 'D' shift position.<<
- Down shift to 'L' when slowing down using brakes for slow stops.<<
- Try false shift (let up on peddle for a second) when I notice the tach over 2000RPM.<<
- Coasting up to stops instead of using typical driving patterns.<<
I have read some about using the 'L' shift position to keep the ICE off longer, but if I shift into low when I am going 25+
MPH in EV mode, the ICE immediately starts!
Does anybody have any suggestions on how I can improve my MPG under these conditions? Any suggestions would be greatly apreciated.
Thanks!
Doug