Ford’s new C-MAX Energi PHEV has a user-selectable electric-only mode that offers a range of at least 20 miles and a top electric-only speed of 85 mph.

Ford’s new C-MAX Energi PHEV has a user-selectable electric-only mode that offers a range of at least 20 miles (superior to that of the Prius Plug-in, as Ford never misses a chance to point out). So drivers with a short commute and/or a charging station at work could enjoy the five-passenger hatchback emission-free all week, saving the dinosaur juice for a long Sunday drive.

Ford also claims that the C-MAX Energi’s top electric-only speed of 85 mph is the highest of any PHEV on the market.

The EV Mode button allows a driver to switch vehicle operation between three modes:

• In EV: Auto mode, the powertrain computer automatically selects the appropriate blend of battery and engine usage based on demand and the state of battery charge.
• In EV: Now mode, the vehicle operates in EV mode using plug-in power, and coaches the driver to maximize range.
• In EV: Later mode, the car operates in normal hybrid mode, using both gas engine and electric motor. Plug-in power is saved for later use, perhaps when transitioning from highway to lower-speed residential neighborhood driving.

The C-MAX Energi is scheduled to go on sale this fall in 19 markets, and in all 50 states in early 2013.

Source: Ford