Virgil22

30A can get away with 10GA wiring, but for 50A you're gonna need 8, or even 6 for a long-distance run. The actual thickness and maneuverability of the wire is not that big of a deal (pulling it thru' walls is not much different than Romex 12), but the price will kill you! 100ft of 10-3 will run you around $130 at the homey depot, while 8-3 is closer to $300.

After lots of searching and many false leads, I was finally able to locate an SE trim Escape PHEV at a dealer almost 500 miles away (hey Ford - your online inventory system sucks). Placed a deposit and collected it this week. Got 40 electric miles followed by 41mpg highway all the way back (in regular driving mode, not ECO). It charges in about 12hrs off a regular 110V outlet. So far very pleased with it, save for a few quirks like wading through what felt like 30 screens of settings in SYNC and Android Auto ? (e.g. figuring out how to turn adaptive cruise into normal cruise-control). The color ("antimatter blue") looks black most of the time and only really shows the blue in bright lighting such as sunlight. Handling is essentially identical to the gas engine version we test-drove - pickup in EV only mode is adequate but not mind-blowing. Convenience package (electric driver seat adjust and power lift-gate) definitely worthwhile additions. Being FWD only, I'm excited to see how it handles once we get some snow on the ground (may end up getting snow tires).