Looking forward to the new Escape hybrid body style. Will be removing one front halfshaft and applying a SOLID voltage to the rear clutch.

RWD for additional safety measure on wintertime adverse roadbeds and "initial" rear ("trailing") braking, regen braking, ONLY.

 

After spending over $30K and destroying the functionality of the hybrid drive system, how would this work better than a new $20K Suzuki Grand Vitara that comes with RWD from the factory and gets 25mpg highway?

 

"...destroying the functionality..."

Why would you say that....?

The hybrid system would remain fully functional, just "coupled" to the roadbed by ONLY the rear tires.

"..Why..??"

40-50MPG.

And the ability to switch to 4WD ( actual "part-time" 4WD) using a manual coupling on one front halfshaft.

 

Are you speaking about the soon to be released:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Kuga

Reports are that there will be a Hybrid version
of the 2013 Escape ( Kuga ) and it will be
manufactured in the Louisville KY Plant. I think
that the Hybrid Escape ( Kuga ) will be a
complete redesign from the present platform.
I've read several reports as to when the
production line will start. Everything from
spring this year to sometime in 2012. When
the present line in Claycomo, Missouri is shut
down I do not know but have heard sometime
this year. As to if they are still manufacturing
2011 Escape Hybrids I would guess maybe. I don't
think they are going to build any 2012 Escape
Hybrids. Just speculation on my part.