Charge It

The North American auto show circuit continues to electrify as hybrid powertrains grab the spotlight at the 2003 New York International Auto Show. The 2004 Prius has a 50-kw drive motor powered by the hot new Hybrid Synergy Drive, packing 50% more electric power than the last-generation Prius and improved low-end torque - V-8 performance with 4-cyl. compact car fuel efficiency, Toyota says. Meanwhile, Ford Motor Co. debuts the production version of its Escape Hybrid and announces its second gasoline-electric vehicle program: the Ford Futura sedan, the Taurus replacement inspired by the 427 concept. General Motors Corp. took the wraps off its 2004 Malibu Maxx sedan, which begins production later this year, as well as a high-performance Malibu Maxx SS concept. DaimlerChrysler AG displayed the Hemi-powered 300C concept sedan.