Ford Delivers E85 Models in Missouri

Ford Motor Company continues their commitment in providing consumers with alternative fuel systems by delivering the company's demonstration models of ethanol powered hybrid vehicles.

Ford has delivered four E85 Escape Hybrid models to selected areas in the U.S. including
one in the State of Missouri, and three for the Kansas City Power & Light at company’s Kansas City Plant.

"As a leader in both hybrid vehicles and in vehicles capable of operating on ethanol-based fuels, Ford is the ideal company to bring both technologies together for the first time. This innovative research represents one of many projects we have at Ford to address our customers desire for a fuel efficient product that meet all of their functional needs, while working on reducing our nation's dependence on oil imports and helping to address global climate change.” said Nancy Gioia, director, Sustainable Mobility Technology, Ford Motor Company.

“Great Plains Energy’s environmental strategy is aggressively pursuing the use of renewables. We are pleased to be among the first to take advantage of the flexibility of a hybrid vehicle that uses E85 fuel. Our current biofuel program has already offset approximately 20 percent of our gasoline usage and these Ford vehicles will advance our long-term commitment to a diversified fleet.” said Michael Chesser, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Great Plains Energy.

Meanwhile, Gov. Matt Blunt also commented: "My administration has and will continue to strongly encourage the use of these environmentally-friendly technologies. The use of renewable fuels improves our environment and the air we breathe. With old-fashioned American ingenuity, like that displayed by the Ford Motor Company, we can become more energy independent. Our state is doing our part to look for alternative fuels to help lessen America’s dependence on foreign oil. The more clean-burning, renewable fuel Missouri produces and uses, the better off we will all be in the long-term."

Ford E85 Escape Hybrid is considered as the first ever vehicle model that is capable of running in 85% ethanol fuel, blended with other fuels like gasoline or diesel. The E85 Escape Hybrid offers an impressive fuel economy and low exhaust emissions. Ford is planning to deliver a total of 20 E85 Escape Hybrid models in selected customers in six states.