Plugging in an FFV? The Best of Both Worlds

The Renewable Fuels Association introduced the 2022 Ford Escape plug-in hybrid electric flex-fuel vehicle, a global first. This model uniquely combines external plug-in charging, an independent battery-powered motor, and a flex-fuel internal combustion engine. The goal is to showcase that when paired with plug-in hybrid technology, low-carbon renewable liquid fuels can offer excellent environmental performance at a lower cost compared to fully battery electric vehicles.

The hybrid Escape addresses concerns such as range anxiety, long recharging times, lack of charging infrastructure, higher upfront costs, and limited flexibility. With a full tank of E85 ethanol and a fully charged battery, the vehicle can travel approximately 430 miles. The hybrid Escape can reduce emissions by around 80% when operating on E85. University testing demonstrated that the hybrid Escape running on E85 substantially reduced emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter, which contribute to smog and air quality concerns.

“Why are we doing this? The answer is simple. We want to prove to policymakers, auto manufacturers, and (most importantly) American drivers that low-carbon renewable liquid fuels in combination with plug-in hybrid technology can deliver excellent environmental performance at a lower cost than a full battery electric vehicle. We want to show that consumers don’t need to sacrifice optionality, convenience, or affordability for superior environmental benefits. And we want to show that ethanol and electricity can be complementary decarbonization solutions.”

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