Can I plug in my FEH?
 

I am new to owning a hybrid. Recently I saw were there was a conversion to a Prius that allowed the owner to plug the car in and boost the mpg. Is there such a thing for the Escape? Thanks. Dan

Re: Can I plug in my FEH?
 

was this it?
http://www.enginer.us/

Re: Can I plug in my FEH?
 

I think I would first consider a tagalong trailer with a highly efficient (miller cycle?) ~25HP genset running on CNG.

Re: Can I plug in my FEH?
 

All joking aside, the Enginer system can boost the mpg, but only if your driving maximizes it's input (ie no lead footing). The Escape is a heavy SUV and it's difficult to get a huge boost from just electrical power unless you use hypermiling techniques. My Escape gets a 25-35% (better in warm weather) boost from the 4kwh enginer kit so instead of 30mpg I'm getting 40-45mpg. ROI would not favor its installation at this point unless your state has tax credits or your ROI equation involves a "feel good" factor.

Re: Can I plug in my FEH?
 

YES but... it could easily cost $30,000+. Hybrid-Plus out of Boulder, Co. did several conversions starting back in 2007. Our GPS1man actually had inside information, drove one of the first conversion and provided a detailed report on his experience. Hybrid-Plus has merged/reorganized with a new name at http://www.eetrex.com/plugin/. Hymotion had shown a conversion but never delievered a retail kit for consumers to purchase for the Escape unlike the Prius owners who have this option. Cost continues to be an issue.

Re: Can I plug in my FEH?
 

@BillyK
Did you read the other replies? I have installed the Enginer kit in my 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid for a total cost of $4,000. At least 10% will be a federal tax credit and up to 85% will be a state tax credit (Colorado) once it's qualified. So that's a 25-35% boost in mpg for $600 with all credits. ROI less than 2 years if you drive more than 12,000 miles/year (current gas prices).

Today Prius owners can have the 4kwh kit for somewhat less with a significant boost in mpg.

The Hymotion kit you reference is not being installed for any private customers (I know, I've called them a few times) and is not cost effective anyway.

Bottom line, if you want to drive an SUV that gets 40+ mpg, the Enginer kit is about the only option.

Re: Can I plug in my FEH?
 

Can you please tell us the names of the Federal statute that says that adding an after market plug in kit is eligible for a $400 tax credit? Also (for those in Colorado), the name of the statute that gives the 85% state tax credit?

I haven't heard of either. Thanks.

Re: Can I plug in my FEH?
 

Information regarding federal and state statutes can be found on Enginer's website
http://www.enginer.us

Re: Can I plug in my FEH?
 

Thanks. Nothing there about federal programs, and the California program is for new vehicles, not conversions. I gather that the Colorado program is intended to assist enginer, which is based there.

Re: Can I plug in my FEH?
 

http://www.enginer.us/news/view.php/...onversion.html
http://www.enginer.us/news/

There are many states with tax incentives for conversion, not just Colorado. Let me know if you want me to list those states :)