SAN DIEGO -- The world's first hybrid sport utility vehicle was sold in San Diego Wednesday, 10News reported.

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The 2005 Ford Escape was bought at Pearson Ford at 1:30 p.m. At that time, executives from Ford Motor Company signed the final papers and handed over the keys to the new owner of the hybrid SUV.

The SUV is powered by gas and a battery. It is a clean, fuel-efficient vehicle that gets about 36 miles to the gallon in the city and 31 on the highway.

"We're really glad to be here in San Diego. The community is really in tune with environmental concerns and this vehicle is the cleanest, most fuel-efficient SUV ever. We're really proud to have the very first one delivered right here in San Diego," said John Harmon from Ford Motor Company.

Tom Campbell from Pearson Ford said there is a fairly large waiting list for the vehicle. The man who is buying the world's first hybrid SUV was first on the list after signing up three years ago.