I have a question related to a difference between the H-Escape and the Prius that I have not been able to answer. It concerns the operation of the Cabin Climate Control. In the Prius there is no A/C clutch attached to the engine as opposed to the Escape. This means that in the Escape ICE must either be in operation or turn on whenever A/C or Defrost is selected.

I understand the mechanics of how this works from my manual but not why the scheme was chosen by Ford. It seems the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) commands the A/C clutch to connect also for use of the Auxillary Climate Control for the batteries. My only answer is that both climate systems were built under-powered for some reason and therefore you cannot run either Defrost or A/C without degrading protection to the batteries and that is why control of both is tethered together through the PCM.

Anyone with an engineering brain have a better answer?

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