"Environmental values are important to me in everything I do, whether it is in building, in my organic farm or in the vehicle I drive," says Douglas Durst. "It just makes sense to buy the all-new 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid. It’s fuel efficient, better for the environment and gives me all of the benefits of an SUV."

Durst, co-owner of the largest organic farm in New York, is president of the Durst Organization – one of New York City’s most respected real estate developers, owners and management companies. Founded in 1915 by Durst’s grandfather, the Durst Organization has transformed the skyline of Manhattan. Douglas Durst joined the family business in 1970. He was integral in the development of 4 Times Square at 42nd Street and Broadway in New York, the first speculative office building to incorporate environmentally responsible design and building practices.

In addition to his environmental efforts, Durst also is involved in the theatrical arts and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Roundabout Theater, Primary Stages and the Town Hall. He is a director of the Real Estate Board of New York, the Landmarks Conservancy, the Municipal Art Society, and chairman of Friends of Hudson River Park.

"The new 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid is the industry’s first no-compromise, full-hybrid SUV and raises the bar in technological innovation," says Mary Ann Wright, director of Sustainable Mobility Technologies and Hybrid Programs and Escape Hybrid’s Chief Engineer. "These vehicles are racing off dealer lots and I am pleased that Douglas is among the first in New York to receive his Escape Hybrid."

The 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid is the cleanest and most fuel-efficient SUV on the road, featuring the product strengths that have made Ford Escape the nation’s best-selling small SUV. The Escape Hybrid has a full-hybrid system that enables it to run on its gasoline engine, electric battery power, or both together. Its responsive steering and handling and available four-wheel drive deliver a driving experience unlike any other hybrid vehicle available. It has earned the highest fuel economy numbers for an SUV as certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – the front-wheel-drive model achieves 36 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.