Recognizing Ford Motor Company

RECOGNIZING FORD MOTOR COMPANY -- (Extensions of Remarks - September 13, 2004)

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise to recognize the introduction of the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid, expected to roll off the assembly lines at the Ford Claycomo Plant in Claycomo, Missouri, beginning in August.

The Escape Hybrid is the first vehicle of its kind to combine hybrid technology with SUV capability. The Escape Hybrid can be powered solely by the gasoline engine, solely by the electric motor, or by using both working together. The hybrid system automatically switches between pure electric, pure gasoline, or combined operation to maximize fuel efficiency and performance, and the Escape Hybrid is projected to surpass 35 miles-per-gallon in city driving. Additionally, exhaust emissions will be lower than many vehicles currently on the market.

The technology that makes the Escape Hybrid possible is revolutionary, and the fact that Ford has produced a hybrid SUV demonstrates Ford's continued leadership in the automobile industry. I am proud that the Ford Claycomo Plant, located in Missouri's Sixth District, will assemble the Escape Hybrid. It is a testament to the employees at Claycomo, especially since the plant already produces Ford F-series models and the Escape and the Mazda Tribute.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing Ford Motor Company and the Ford Claycomo Plant as they begin production of the Ford Escape Hybrid.