The All-New 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid and Parts, the first Hybrid Vehicle of Its ClassWritten by Jenny McLane
After Toyota’s introduction of Prius, first hybrid vehicle, in 1997 which was followed by debut of Honda Insight two years later in America, General Motors adopted Hybrid technology to their vehicle with 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid. The introduction Escape Hybrid is first entry of any American vehicle in market. As to Ford’s pioneering model, Escape is produced on a limited number. 2004 brought only 3000-4000 units of Ford Escape which began its production in late July. About 16,000 to 17,000 units are scheduled to be on production line in 2005 but with demand increasingly high, number might increase.As law of supply and demand applies to Escape, buyers will not get any discounts and rebates for this high-priced SUV ranging from $26,970 for Front Wheel Drive which can reach up to $33,000 for a fully optioned vehicle to $28,595 for All-Wheel Drive. They have to settle to idea that they are one of few owners of this first of its kind SUV. The 2005 Ford Escape runs on a 4-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric drive system to deliver performance of a V-6. It is typically an electric car that uses electric power engine to operate. Unlike other hybrid vehicles like Honda Accord which uses IMA or integrated motor assist which always at gas mode and kick to electric for additional power when needed, Ford Escape use electric as long as possible then switch to gas when needed. The electric motor can reach peak of up to 70 kilowatts for an additional of 93hp.
| | A Car Resale Value - A Car Buying GuideWritten by John G. Nuble
Right off bat, let's clear one thing up. You will not profit from buying a car unless you intend to, or are already in business of buying and selling cars. Depreciation will decrease value of your car longer you use it, no matter what. It isn't an investment, so no matter how you carefully treat it, you can never make money you bought your car with back, much more make a profit off it. Now with that out of way, here are some tips to guide you in your car buying expedition, particularly if you do not intend to keep car for life. These are tips to maintain substantial resale value of your new car. Think of it as accepting fate that your first car buying experience will have to end in a break-up. - Stick with classic colors and options. A neon green car may strike your fancy, even if no one really understands why, but buying a car fit for resale entails sticking to basics. - Remember that setting up car's engines, audio and detail accessories will not necessarily boost resale value of your car. Why juice it up anyway if you know you want a more expensive car for keeps down financially stable road? - There are some detailing jobs that will remain classic resale boosts: a nice stereo, sun roofs and leather seats. - Buying a car that is easily maintained helps, too. Readily available parts and a familiar engine will keep maintenance hassles to a minimum. Polish it, have regular check ups and get multi-point inspections done. - Think about safety when buying a car. Check if latest technologies in car safety are present in car. A safe car is a more resalable car than muscle-packed, speed mobiles. Check for airbags, anti-lock breaks, traction control, electronic stability and side airbags.
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