[Raymondjram]

This is old news. Ford announced the development of new "Energi" models months ago. Search this forum for past posts, which includes a spy photo of the Escape Energi.

Ford developed the first U.S. production hybrid (a small CUV) in 2005 way before the Chevy Volt was a concept. Yet they stopped the Escape Hybrid in 2012 and as its replacement offered the C-Max Hybrid and later the C-Max Energi.

We who have seen (and driven) the Escape know that Ford should had kept the Escape Hybrid. The Explorer Hybrid could had been its second "hybrid".

 

[Raymondjram]

I agree it needs a next gen Volt like range.

The present C-Max and Fusion Energi models use a in-house developed electric transaxle (HF35) that is similar yet simpler than the Chevy Volt's 4ET50 and 5ET50 (watch the Weber YouTube videos for a detailed breakdown and explanation of how each one works). So if Ford redesigned the bodies to hold a larger battery and upgrades the main traction motor, it can compete with the GM offerings because the Fusion is a medium sized sedan, not a compact as the Volt. I have done two test drives of the Fusion Hybrid and one of the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, so I know how "big" and comfortable they are inside(I sat in all five seats). A Hybrid Ford Edge and Explorer will be big sellers.