Foreword

FOREWORD

The emergency response procedure for the Tribute Hybrid vehicle is similar to those for traditional gasoline-powered vehicles with the addition of special considerations for the high-voltage electric system components.

The Tribute Hybrid vehicle uses a conventional gasoline engine in addition to an electric motor to power the vehicle. The energy used to power the vehicle comes from gasoline (used by the internal combustion engine) and electricity (used by the electric motor).

- Gasoline is stored in a traditional fuel tank.
- Electricity is stored in a high-voltage battery pack.

The combination of a gasoline engine and electric motor provides for improved performance (V6 performance with a 4-cylinder engine and electric motor), reduced emissions and improved fuel economy. The high-voltage system is self contained, never needing to be plugged into an electrical outlet for recharging. The system incorporates a generator that recharges the batteries during cruising and braking. For further information, the following website may be useful: http://www.fordvehicles.com/escapehybrid/technology/.

The information in this guide will allow response to emergencies involving Tribute Hybrid vehicles to be as safe as with conventional vehicles.

The Tribute Hybrid vehicle has been designed with many safety features for your protection. These features help provide safe access to the vehicle under various conditions. However, whenever approaching a high-voltage vehicle in a fire, rescue or recovery situation, always follow one industry standard rule:

ALWAYS ASSUME THE VEHICLE HIGH-VOLTAGE SYSTEM IS POWERED UP!!!