RUTLAND, VT - Sen. James Jeffords (I-VT) is setting the example for his constituents by leasing a 2005 Hybrid Ford Escape, according to the Associated Press. Jeffords has authored legislation to support the development of hybrid vehicles during his time in the Senate. He said increasing their production and use is important to preserve the environment and lessen the nation´s dependence on foreign oil. “I´m glad to finally see and drive a vehicle that gets the kind of miles per gallon that the whole U.S. fleet should get,” said Jeffords at the Ford dealership, reported the AP. Jeffords new hybrid vehicle has a regenerative braking system, which charges fuel cells in the rear compartment every time the driver steps on the brakes. The Hybrid Ford Escape is advertised to get 33 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The 15-gallon tank needs to be filled about once every 400 miles.