FORD 2009 Escape Hybrid v.2 - Manual (Page 294)

Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits
Since it is able to operate in electric mode and to collect braking energy,
your hybrid vehicle may get better fuel economy in city driving than on
the highway. This is contrary to conventional vehicles. However, many of
the same actions that improve fuel economy in a conventional vehicle
will also improve fuel economy in this vehicle.
Give consideration to the lists that follow and you may be able to
improve your fuel economy.
Habits
• Avoid aggressive driving. Quick acceleration and deceleration decrease
fuel economy.
• Drive at a smooth, constant speed. Excessive variation in pedal input
causes more operating mode changes and reduces efficiency.
• Drive at reasonable speeds. Traveling at 60 mph [96 km/h] uses
approximately 20% less fuel than traveling at 70 mph [112 km/h]).
• Minimize A/C and defroster usage. Selecting defrost, or defrost/floor
mode on the climate control system will force the engine to run
continuously, which reduces fuel economy. Selecting AUTO will
typically force the engine to run continuously, unless ECON is
selected. ECON will allow the engine to shut down for a period of
time, even when air conditioning is requested.
• Minimize temperature extremes when the vehicle is parked, for
example by storing in a garage to avoid extreme cold in winter and
extreme sun loads in summer. The high voltage battery operates more
efficiently in moderate temperatures.
• Combine errands. Your vehicle is more fuel efficient when the engine
is warm. Driving to your farthest destination first will warm the engine
more quickly and may improve fuel economy for the rest of the trip.
Maintenance
• Keep tires properly inflated and use only recommended size.
• Keep wheels properly aligned.
• Use recommended engine oil. Refer to Lubricant specifications in
this chapter.
• Perform all regularly scheduled maintenance items. Follow the
recommended maintenance schedule and owner maintenance checks
found in scheduled maintenance information.
2009 Escape Hybrid (ehv)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA (fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
294