Ford 2006 Escape Hybrid Owner's Manual page 6

Introduction
NORMAL VEHICLE OPERATION
Your Escape Hybrid has unique qualities which cause it to operate
differently than a typical vehicle.
Starting the vehicle
• The engine will start and run when you first turn the ignition key to
the start position.
• The engine cannot be started in the N (Neutral) position.
• Depending upon temperature and the high voltage battery's state of
charge, the engine may shut off shortly after starting the vehicle; this
is a normal condition and you do not need to restart the vehicle. The
Ready Indicator Light in the instrument cluster will illuminate to
indicate the vehicle is running. For more Ready Indicator Light
information, refer to Warning lights and chimes in the Instrument
Cluster chapter.
DRIVING THE VEHICLE
Starting Out:
Under normal operation with the vehicle at operating temperature, the
engine will start automatically as you accelerate. Sometimes the engine
will start immediately as you begin moving, while other times the vehicle
will obtain a speed of up to 25 mph (40 km/h) before the engine starts.
You may hear and feel the engine starting as you transition from
electrical to hybrid (gas engine on) operation. This is a normal condition.
These are some of the conditions that may cause engine start-up:
• High voltage battery re-charge is required.
• Driver acceleration demands exceed electric motor capability.
• Outside air temperature is overly hot or cold.
• Certain climate system modes of operation.
• If you are starting up hill or accelerating quickly, the engine will start
immediately as operating conditions require additional power.
Note: If the high voltage battery is very cold or very hot, the engine may
operate more than under normal conditions, and vehicle performance
may be temporarily reduced. This is a normal condition.
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