Ford Kuga/Escape PHEV car drives itself!

[@iain8837]

I have a Focus and used it recently to drive to the UK from Switzerland....twice! 6000km in a few weeks. I took my pillow from my bed and put it across my knees, and pushing slightly against the bottom of the steering wheel (also acts as a very comfortable elbow rest), the steering wheel feels the resistance, and never gives a warning, drove for up to an hour without touching a pedal or the wheel! Really like the car, I have owned many cars from various popular manufacturers (Mazda, VW, BMW, Skoda etc) and my focus has the best button layout of any. Easy cruise control buttons, lane assist on off right at your thumb, climate control has 3 handy auto levels so you can keep it quiet at all times. Nice big temperature knob, easy to disable start stop, and really nice to switch on the auto hold so you can let of the pedals at traffic lights. HUD is great, seats are comfy and supportive. My 120ps diesel has great cruising economy. From channel tunnel to Scotland with no traffic and cruise control at 65mph, I got 73mpg (around 3.6 ltr/100km). On the French autoroute, cruise at max speed without getting a ticket (roughly 136kmh indicated (86mph), I got 51 mpg...not bad for that speed!

[@fnmbanga]

Useful video thanks! it's interesting to see others' experiences with the Kuga Hybrid. To answer one of your questions in the video: Your PHEV can drive in EV, Hybrid or fuel mode. I have read that the battery actually has a reserve capacity of 25% that the vehicle will use for hybrid driving. this reserve is constantly charged by regenerative braking or engine and quickly spent whenever possible (you can observe that on the energy flow screen when you drive). I have also found that I get better fuel economy on highway by cycling between CHARGE MODE and EV mode. Typically, at speeds of 120 -130KM/H, Charge mode seems to yield 1KM ev for every 4 KM which i can use on slower strips in ev mode. Overall, this appears to give better fuel economy than just using normal mode all through. Have you tried it?

[@CambsEV]

I haven’t tried that but certainly will do now you have mentioned it! Thanks.

[@flemmodk]

Nice video, would have loved it if you had taken the same road back just to see how that would have gone. Driving assists are great and it looks like it works great on the Kuga.

[@trondeie6635]

Great Information,I love the new Kuga.What I not understand the blinker back is the old bulb type and. In front is led.The same with the foglights

[@CambsEV]

Trond Eie yes, I thought that was disappointing too. Not ever to put me off the car though! Hopefully I will point out some other little ‘niggles’ in the next video!

[@nikolaiownz]

the extra 11 miles comes from the recharging when braking i belive.. its recharging quite a bit.

[@TerryLestrange]

Especially while in a traffic jam it should provide your more electric power. I will test it out Friday! :D

[@nikolaiownz]

@@TerryLestrange I will not be driving the kuga before October. Mine will first be delivered there 😁

[@ZaphodBeeblebro]

@@nikolaiownz did they deliver? With the battery problem I heard they are not delivering any vehicles 😬

[@nikolaiownz]

@@ZaphodBeeblebro No not in denmark. Was supposed to get mine start this month. I think i Will cancel My order because there Will be a major tax increase on the plug-in hybrid in denmark is 2021 and I dont think they Will deliver this year

[@ZaphodBeeblebro]

@@nikolaiownz jeg har lige købt en og håbede på det bedste, nu har de fundet problemet og skifter batterierne! Og hvis du har bestilt så garanterer de prisen uanset afgift stigning eller ej ;)

[@gordonmoore1838]

When the battery falls to 0 electric miles the car then runs as a mild hybrid, hence the 11 electric miles on the return journey. This is stated in the handbook and I can confirm from my own test drive in a Ford demonstrator, an oopsy resulted in 0 electric miles available when I picked it up! However every acceleration from stop was electric only. Also note that EV now and EV Later become disabled leaving Normal and charging as the only 2 options. I got 18 EV miles in a 35 mile run on a mix of A, B, town and a short dual carriage way running resulting in 58 mpg. My gut feeling is petrol consumption will wildly vary for all of us from probably as low as 45 mpg to possibly 120 to 160 mpg for those journeys where EV only is not possible. Roll on end of September when mine should arrive and the fun begins!

[@CambsEV]

Thanks for this Gordon, this is good to understand. Thank yourself lucky you are getting a 🤞🏻sorted car in September!

[@tesbian9174]

Hello guys. I wouldn't say it is working on petrol. Also not as a mild hybrid. Like every PHEV it is supposed to work as a conventional full hybrid when it does not use the advantage of the plug in extra battery charge. It should be more less the same consumption when charge of battery reaches "0" and when using "EV later" mode, mabye slightly better in the second case but not necessarily. Petrol mode does not exist in this vehicle, unless you are climbing long hill during long time flooring the pedal and the car can not sustain the power provided from the battery. It would then come to a kind of save mode limiting power until minimum battery charge is recovered. You got those 11,7 electric miles as you would also get them in a, for example, RAV4 HEV. HEV's can recover around of 30% of energy depending on driving conditions so that 11,7 EV miles in 35,4miles route is quite good value (33%). Thank you Cambs for the videos. Waiting for more!

[@trondeie6635]

Today 46 miles on electric

[@DariuszTech]

Wow. That's impressive. I own outlander PHEV which I'm going to keep for another 2 years and will be looking to replace with something with better EV range. The best I achieved was 28miles. Can you tow a caravan with ford?

[@andyjames6664]

Such a shame that Cruise will not maintain legal speed limit.

[@colinhennessy2844]

It actually does! if you set cruise control, it recognises speed limit signs and adjusts your speed accordingly. Very clever!

[@TarenCapel]

Nice one. Very useful.

[@peterg9272]

Great video! I'll be getting mine in a couple of months :) The reason you're getting 11 miles of electric despite the battery being out, is probably because of regenerative breaking charging the battery while driving.

[@CambsEV]

Correct!

[@cbdlifeproducts5966]

Hi Thanks for the video.. I have a phev but cannot see all the assist pack you mentioned eg traffic light assit? Also in EV mode can you please help regarding the message that constantly keeps popping up "Press OK to enable engine"? for the life of me cannot see what this message is?

[@2007gnome]

Hi. Did you ever fiind out where the car got the extra electric miles, even though you had run it dry on battery?

[@colinhennessy2844]

Yes, I'm pretty sure it was from regenerative braking feeding energy back into the battery............and the electric energy use going unnoticed somewhere along the journey!

[@badengee4913]

Be careful showing your on your phone while driving as it was in your hand during one of the film clips. But great video. Great detail

[@CambsEV]

👍🏻

[@willielarsson9651]

Great video, I prefer real world scenarios as opposed to motoring journalist

[@willielarsson9651]

What the real world acceleration like? The 9.2sec 0-60 figure isn't great but sometimes that isn't the full picture. Is overtaking good?

[@CambsEV]

I've been so fixated on economy, I"ve yet to try! I've yet to really sample the other driving modes especially sport but will give it a go in the coming days.

[@willielarsson9651]

Thanks, look forward to the report. I'm choosing my new company car soon and this looks a favourite, the co2 and BIK rates are hard to ignore

[@SimonWellsK2Joom]

@@willielarsson9651 Got mine the other day. Sport mode, full EV, floor it! Steering certainly feels very light on launch, more play time needed.

[@blueygac]

perhaps you could include in one of the videos the correct way of breaking to achieve maximum regenerative breaking %, because, as i understand it it takes a different breaking style to get this?, (pick mine up in the next week or so :) ).

[@SimonWellsK2Joom]

One of the display modes shows how much Electric is being used, but also when you free wheel or break how much is being regenerated. Only had mine 2 days.

[@no-oneman.4140]

Does it have a heat pump ?

[@CambsEV]

Afraid not though I'm not sure needed given the engine back up.

[@patfullam]

Hi, at the end of EV mode the system reverts to hybrid mode, the battery does not deplete entirely, at a preset low limit the system changes to normal or hybrid mode. Therefore, depending on terrain, road conditions etc, some of the remaining journey will function in EV mode as the petrol engine cuts out and in as required, aided also by incidental regeneration. Economy is helped too due to eCVT transmission always defaulting to the highest gear ratio.

[@davidbovine]

Any news on resolution of the issues that are preventing deliveries? My Kuga PHEV was supposed to be delivered on 6th September and 30 mins before it’s scheduled arrival with me, they cancelled the delivery. No worthwhile comms or updates since from Ford, the dealer or the lease company that my employer uses. Really poor customer service. They need to get their act together!

[@colinhennessy2844]

Hi David, did you get the email from Ford this week?

[@davidbovine]

Colin Hennessy. Yes, I did thanks. Doesn’t sound like they think they’ll have a fix any time soon 😔

[@colinhennessy2844]

David Harrison I think they know the fix, it’s just a case of finding 33k battery packs!

[@Darkestestmatter]

Hello, thanks for taking the time to post info on the Kuga you own. I am interested in the PHEV Kuga but also in a 1.6 gasoline 5008, so your videos might be useful into learning more and making an ideea. In one of you rprevious videos, you mentioned you owned a Peugeot 5008. Was it the current or previous version? And why did you change to the new Kuga? How do they compare from your point of view ? Thanks and wish you safe driving.

[@CambsEV]

My pleasure. Not a huge difference in many respects size, practicality etc but the running cost savings are big!

[@Darkestestmatter]

@@CambsEV hey, thanks for the feedback. I assume that you get those huge savings by driving mostly in or near city (so gasoline engine is used rarely)and you recharge mostly at free charging stations? Or is it otherwise?

[@CelticNote]

@@Darkestestmatter I charge mostly at home but the cost per kWh for electricity is around 75% less then the equivalent petrol cost!

[@johnmorris1122]

would love this car but have no means of charging as i live in a flat with no charge points local to me. is it pisdible to recharge battery by just driving or am i better buying a diesel or petrol suv? i hear theres a petrol/hybrid version next year

[@CambsEV]

You can recharge via the engine and also via brake regeneration. Brake regeneration seems to work quite efficiently and I think at some point in the future you will find an option to charge wherever you live. I would stick with the plug-in.

[@johnmorris1122]

Cambs EV ok so excuse my ignorance but if i never plug in a phev will it work and recharge just like a full hybrid car? like the lexus nh300 for example

[@gondorian1006]

@@johnmorris1122 yes it will work just like a regular hybrid if you never plug it in.

[@wolvoman1]

@@CambsEV If the battery dies how long would it take for the engine to recharge the battery?

[@CambsEV]

@@wolvoman1 Good question and I will be testing exactly that this weekend as I have a long journey to do in the car. Watch this space!

[@Slyfox1775]

I was getting around 50 ev miles on my volt . I’m surprised this doesn’t get more ?

[@CambsEV]

How big was the battery in the Volt?

[@colcestrian]

Did the driver assist pack have front and rear cameras included?

[@colinhennessy2844]

Yes. I didn't spec any extras on the car. Knowing it was a First Edition I knew it would come loaded but I didn't really investigate the options beforehand, being more interested in it being a PHEV and having the room we needed.

[@andersholmmadsen]

Great video. Would love a video showing the fordpassconnect app and Its functionality 👍

[@CambsEV]

Ok, sounds like a plan!

[@Ejan81]

Have you done any mpg test in Ev auto? I have 43miles(70km) commute to work and thinking of buying One of these, i might not have charging at work at all Times.

[@CambsEV]

In EV auto mode, the engine will kick in at times depending on your driving and also as soon as your battery power runs out. I think you will make it there but will use the engine for your home journey!

[@DD08DK]

Nice videos. Waiting for my similar spec'ed Kuga ST X delivery in mid July. Would it be possible for you to make a video of the adaptive lights in the dark? Don't you use the Ford app? You should be able to preheat the car, and i reckon the built in wifi-hotspot would be great for the kids. Cheers...

[@CambsEV]

I use the app and only recently have started to use the pre-cool feature. I'm planning a night based video soon to cover the interior illumination and headlights!

[@DD08DK]

@@CambsEV Perfect. I've had a hard time verifying whether it would be able to cool the car, as the heat-function is the only thing being advertised here in DK. So, thanks for clarifying. Looking forward to the night drive. Cheers...

[@Titomuse]

@@DD08DK I believe if you just leave it on auto, it aims for 22C, whether it is hot or cold outside. It also does the windows, seats, and heated steering as it thinks is required. It's quite an intelligent car. I am having problems sending destinations to the car though from the app.

[@fanoscharalambous2098]

Great video again 👏 👍 keep up the good work 👍

[@CambsEV]

Thanks so much Fanos!

[@fanoscharalambous2098]

@@CambsEV no worries, are you about to do a walk round the inside and outside the Kuga at night with lights on.

[@CambsEV]

@@fanoscharalambous2098 I am now!

[@fanoscharalambous2098]

@@CambsEV great 👍 👌

[@Titomuse]

Genuine thanks for the effort you are putting in on these reviews. I am really interested in these and I am looking to place an order once I can decide on specification and colour etc. Any idea what the range will be (approximately) on just petrol? I intend to tour next year (Eurotunnel) rather than fly, so a good range will help. Expecting above 300 miles on petrol hopefully! Edit: Just thought of another question - is it true you can ask the Kuga to warm-up before you get in (useful for winter) by using the ford app on your phone.

[@SimonWellsK2Joom]

At lockdown fuel prices, I filled mine up for £44 exact and it reported 366 potential miles.

[@Titomuse]

@@SimonWellsK2Joom Excellent. That is enough for touring then. I would expect a bit more on long range / motorway cruising. I have only had mine for three days, but on petrol only I am getting 44mpg (driving steady). On the ten gallon tank (45 litres I think it is) that could give around 440 miles between fill-ups.

[@SimonWellsK2Joom]

There is an app, which I have not setup yet, which will allow you to remote start.

[@SimonWellsK2Joom]

@@Titomuse An update. I had to have a trip from south coast to Birmingham and back. Started off with 31 miles electric charge, managed to do 65 on electric, mainly from regenerative energy. 44mpg on fuel.

[@roberthorton9599]

@@SimonWellsK2Joom Excellent - Thanks for the update! I have had mine for a few weeks now and I have noticed the regeneration is very efficient. A lot better than I expected. I am getting 42 - 43 miles on pure electric. This is on the flat though and during the recent warm weather, so fairly optimum conditions for it. Massively impressed with the car overall. Shame about the recent recall, but still well worth it. Mine goes in for the check on Wednesday.

[@Lolianzo]

We're getting ours in July :) Does the St-Line X come with ANC? Some documents says it does and others says that its only in the Vignale.

[@CambsEV]

Not that I'm aware of but I have an outstanding query with Ford UK on this as to exactly what it is! Is it a module of some sort or is in sound deadening........🤷🏻‍♂️

[@fnmbanga]

if you mean Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) then yes, it's only Vignale. There is no accessory pack (at least here in Denmark) that offers it on the ST line trim. I have got an ST line too (had to get it instead of Vignale because of long delivery times for the latter). If you are moving from Petrol or Diesel, you'll find the cabin to be pretty quiet even without it.

[@Lolianzo]

@@fnmbanga I'm from Denmark aswell. Had to go with the ST Line aswell to make sure to get it this year before the tax increase. I found it extremely quiet even though its without ANC. I havent found a dealer who has the Vignale so I have nothing to compare with.

[@Romeodk]

The ANC is only on Vignale, from what i know. Its the same as on the Fieste Vignale and Forcus Vignale. There is 4 microphones in the ceiling , that measures and cancels out mostly road noise. If you have it, you will see the microphones, if there is none, you dont have it. I ordered the Vignale because i wanted the ANC, and should get it late July. (also from denmark) But there is difference from the Nordic version and the UK version on the trims, so could be UK get ANC on ST-Line. But the seat memory seems to be only on Vignale , even if some specs in UK said it would be on 1st. ed. So who knows what the versions include.

[@trondeie6635]

IT,s on my ST on the front window

[@fennie56]

You didn’t drive to Barnard Castle to check your eyesight then? 😉

[@CambsEV]

Sorry, no idea what you mean.

[@fennie56]

Cambs EV Sorry.. political reference to the Adviser of our Leader travelling 250 miles to his parents house in Durham to avoid lockdown in London and then doing a day trip to Barnard Castle “to check that his eyesight was ok for the return trip to London”...just google “Barnard Castle”.. 😉 Great video - thanks! Tech on this car does seem to be amazing!

[@CambsEV]

@@fennie56 😂, I'll admit you lost me .....now I'm howling!

[@uk_assassin8684]

I'm more worried about your speeding above all else.

[@CambsEV]

I'll keep an eye on that 🙏🏼

[@grantboucher9342]

24 is not hot

[@jamesthomas5874]

my focus does same thing after all its a focus on steroids nothing new

[@CambsEV]

Well that's true....but with a 14.4kWh battery. 😀

[@116fletch]

I have one on order but worried it’ll bore me to death 🤨

[@CambsEV]

What trim level have you ordered?

[@116fletch]

@@CambsEV hi, the 2.5 phev St line x

[@CambsEV]

@@116fletch So depends what you are looking for. The ST Line has the stiffer suspension which I find good for spirited driving. If you accelerate in Normal mode and switch to Sport mode you will notice a big difference in throttle response. For me, the power is enough (in sport mode) while not neck breaking! If you like tech, there should be plenty in that trim level. I know spec has changed for the 21 model so you may have to add the driver assistance pack........

[@cbdlifeproducts5966]

@@CambsEV you will not get bored.. my only negatives are 1. no rapid charging 2. a tad noisy 3. a couple of blind spots.. apart from that took it to Scotland and back and no issues really pleasant driving experience.

[@royhornyak8596]

I pick up my Kuga on Friday 1st september 2023, and I will not be driving it like you do. Really not the best reveiw I have seen. 75 when looking for MPG??? Also using a mobile phone???? What's that all about? Hopefully you will get better at youtube videos.

[@robmiles4995]

80 MPH indicated at one point in the video and using your mobile phone whilst driving in another. As a blue light driver I am VERY disappointed. I hope I don't end up having to blue light to you at some point!

[@shithead4767]

Bruh

[@chrisjackman2833]

Illegal to use your mobile phone while driving stop it !

[@Malky1302]

Anyone who needs lane assist to help them stay in a lane shouldn't be driving imo... sometimes technology goes too far, people are getting far to lazy