HANDS OFF

Ford this month is introducing its all-new Escape SUV at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 16. The new Escape is another of Ford's global vehicles, based on the company's C-sized platform.

The vehicle will be offered with three fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines, including 1.6- and 2.0-liter versions of Ford's popular EcoBoost engines. The new 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine is expected to deliver better fuel economy than competitors' larger four- cylinder engines. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost is expected to offer better fuel economy than competitors' V6 engines, while delivering unsurpassed performance compared to those larger six-cylinder powertrains.

The new Escape featuring a segment-first hands-free power liftgate. It is the first SUV to use gesture-based technology similar to that found in video games. A gentle kicking motion under the center of the rear bumper activates the system and raises the liftgate without the need to fumble for a key. The same kicking motion closes the liftgate as well.

The hands-free liftgate builds on Ford's Intelligent Access push-button start. It allows customers to unlock and start their vehicles without having to take the key out of their pocket or purse. The system uses two sensors in the rear bumper to detect a person's shin and kicking motion. The system safeguards against accidental opening by being programmed to open with leg motions – not when an animal runs under the car or when the vehicle hits a bump on the road.

The all-new Escape goes on sale next spring, building on the success of Ford's highly popular small SUV. First introduced in 2000, nearly 2 million Escapes have been sold. It will be built at Ford's Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky, where the company has invested $600 million to retool the facility.