2002 Ford Think Electric Car Review Specs and Performance Insights

The 2002 Ford Think Electric Car was a bold, eco-conscious urban runabout ahead of its time, offering zero-emission driving with a 100% electric powertrain. With a modest 72-mile range and a top speed of 70 mph, it delivered reliable city performance, while its compact size and nimble handling made it ideal for crowded streets. Though short-lived due to market and battery limitations, the Think remains a pioneering glimpse into Ford’s early EV ambitions.

Key Takeaways

• Limited range: 80-100 miles per charge, ideal for city commutes.
• Fast charging: Recharges in 6-8 hours with standard 120V outlet.
• Zero emissions: Fully electric, eco-friendly with no tailpipe pollutants.
• Compact design: Maneuverable and perfect for urban parking challenges.
• Low maintenance: Fewer moving parts reduce long-term service costs.
• Underpowered motor: 44 hp limits highway performance and acceleration.
• Historical significance: Early EV pioneer, paving the way for modern models.

The 2002 Ford Think Electric Car: A Bold Step Into the Future

In the early 2000s, the automotive world stood at a crossroads. While gasoline-powered vehicles dominated the roads, environmental concerns, rising fuel prices, and technological advances were beginning to shift the tide toward alternative energy sources. Among the automakers exploring electric mobility, Ford Motor Company made a bold and ambitious move with the introduction of the 2002 Ford Think Electric Car. This compact, two-seater EV was not just another prototype—it was Ford’s first mass-produced electric vehicle in the modern era, signaling a serious commitment to sustainable transportation. With a sleek, modern design and a mission to reduce urban emissions, the Think (originally “TH!NK”) became a symbol of Ford’s vision for a greener future.

The 2002 Ford Think was more than just a car; it was a statement. Developed in collaboration with Norway’s Pivco (later renamed Think Global), the vehicle was designed specifically for city commuting, offering zero tailpipe emissions, low operating costs, and a quiet, smooth driving experience. Though its time on the U.S. market was brief—discontinued in 2003 due to financial and logistical challenges—the Think remains a fascinating chapter in the history of electric vehicles. For enthusiasts, historians, and modern EV adopters alike, the 2002 Ford Think offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that shaped today’s electric revolution. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the specs, performance, design, real-world usability, and legacy of this pioneering EV, offering both technical details and practical takeaways for anyone curious about the roots of electric mobility.

Design and Exterior Features: A City-Centric Urban EV

Compact and Purpose-Built for Urban Environments

The 2002 Ford Think Electric Car was engineered with one primary goal: to serve as an efficient, eco-friendly solution for urban commuting. Its compact dimensions—measuring just 117.5 inches in length, 63.8 inches in width, and 59.1 inches in height—made it ideal for navigating tight city streets, parallel parking in crowded lots, and zipping through traffic. The low curb weight of approximately 1,550 pounds (703 kg) contributed to its agility and energy efficiency. Unlike full-sized sedans or SUVs, the Think’s small footprint minimized energy consumption and maximized maneuverability, making it a practical choice for short-distance travel.

Its design was futuristic yet functional. The body featured a high roofline, large windows for excellent visibility, and a wide track for stability. The front end sported a minimalist grille (unnecessary for an EV’s cooling needs) and aerodynamic headlights, while the rear was dominated by a large liftback door for easy access to the cargo area. The overall aesthetic was clean and modern, with smooth lines and a slightly futuristic flair that stood out from traditional gas-powered city cars of the era.

Materials and Build Quality: Lightweight and Sustainable

One of the standout features of the Think was its use of recycled and recyclable materials. The body panels were made from polypropylene plastic, which is both lightweight and impact-resistant. This material choice reduced the vehicle’s overall weight, improving efficiency and range. Additionally, Ford emphasized sustainability in the interior, using recycled plastics and non-toxic adhesives. The seats were covered in durable, washable fabric, designed to withstand daily use in urban settings.

While the build quality was not on par with luxury vehicles, it was robust enough for its intended use. The plastic body panels could absorb minor impacts without denting, a practical advantage in stop-and-go traffic. However, some early adopters noted that the materials felt “cheap” compared to conventional cars, reflecting the cost-conscious nature of the project. Still, for a city car focused on efficiency and emissions reduction, the Think’s material strategy was ahead of its time.

Color Options and Customization

The 2002 Ford Think was offered in a limited but vibrant range of exterior colors, including Sunset Orange, Ocean Blue, Arctic White, and Forest Green. These colors were chosen to appeal to environmentally conscious buyers and to stand out in urban environments. Interior color schemes were kept simple—typically black or gray—with subtle accents to match the exterior. While customization options were minimal (no sunroof, no leather seats, no advanced infotainment), the car’s simplicity was part of its charm. It was a no-frills EV designed to get the job done, not to impress with luxury.

Powertrain and Performance: Electric Efficiency in Action

Motor and Drivetrain Configuration

At the heart of the 2002 Ford Think was a permanent magnet DC motor producing 44 horsepower (33 kW) and 110 lb-ft (150 Nm) of torque. Unlike internal combustion engines, which build torque gradually, the electric motor delivered instant torque from a standstill—a key advantage in city driving. The motor was mounted on the rear axle, powering the rear wheels via a single-speed fixed-ratio transmission. This direct-drive system eliminated the need for gears, resulting in a smooth, seamless acceleration experience.

The rear-wheel-drive layout provided balanced handling, especially in urban conditions. The low center of gravity—thanks to the battery pack mounted beneath the floor—enhanced stability and reduced body roll during cornering. While the Think wasn’t built for speed, its 0–30 mph time of around 5 seconds made it highly responsive in stoplight-to-stoplight driving, a critical factor for city commuters.

Battery Technology and Range

The Think was powered by a 28.3 kWh sodium-nickel chloride (Na-NiCl2) battery pack, commonly known as a “Zebra” battery. This technology was chosen for its high energy density, long cycle life, and excellent performance in cold weather—a significant advantage over early lithium-ion batteries, which struggled in sub-zero temperatures. The battery pack weighed approximately 600 pounds (272 kg) and was housed under the floor, contributing to the car’s low center of gravity.

On a full charge, the 2002 Ford Think offered an EPA-estimated range of 50–60 miles (80–97 km), depending on driving conditions, temperature, and use of accessories. In real-world urban driving, owners reported ranges closer to 45–55 miles, which was sufficient for most daily commutes. For example, a driver with a 20-mile round-trip commute could use the car for two days without recharging, assuming overnight charging.

Charging and Energy Management

The Think featured a standard 120V/240V Level 1/2 charging system. With a 120V household outlet, a full charge took 10–12 hours. Using a 240V Level 2 charger (like those found in modern EVSEs), charging time dropped to 6–8 hours. The onboard charger was a 3.3 kW unit, which was adequate for its time but limited by today’s standards. The car also included a regenerative braking system, which recovered energy during deceleration and extended range by up to 10% in stop-and-go traffic.

Pro tip: To maximize range, owners were advised to pre-condition the battery (warming it before driving in cold weather) and avoid aggressive acceleration. The car’s energy display provided real-time feedback on energy consumption, helping drivers adopt efficient driving habits.

Interior and Technology: Simplicity Meets Functionality

Minimalist Cabin Layout

The interior of the 2002 Ford Think was intentionally simple, focusing on functionality over luxury. The two-seater layout featured bucket seats with manual adjustments, a center console with basic controls, and a minimalist dashboard. The instrument cluster was analog, displaying speed, battery charge level, and a simple energy flow indicator. There was no tachometer—unnecessary in an EV—but the driver could monitor power draw and regeneration in real time.

The cabin was surprisingly spacious for its size. Headroom was generous, thanks to the high roofline, and legroom was adequate for average-height adults. The large windows provided excellent visibility, reducing blind spots and enhancing safety in dense urban traffic. However, the lack of rear seats meant it was strictly a commuter car—not suitable for families or carpooling.

Infotainment and Connectivity (or Lack Thereof)

Given its 2002 release date, the Think had no advanced infotainment system. There was no touchscreen, no navigation, and no Bluetooth. The standard audio system included a basic AM/FM radio with a single CD player—a modest setup even by early-2000s standards. However, the simplicity of the system meant fewer distractions and lower power consumption. Some owners retrofitted aftermarket radios with auxiliary inputs for MP3 players, a popular workaround before smartphones became ubiquitous.

The car did include a few modern touches, such as electric power windows, central locking, and a heated rear window—features that improved comfort in colder climates. The climate control system was manual, with a simple heater and fan. There was no air conditioning, a notable omission that limited its appeal in hot regions. Ford later addressed this in updated versions, but the 2002 model relied on open windows and sunshades for cooling.

Storage and Practicality

Despite its small size, the Think offered decent storage. The rear liftback opened to reveal a 10.6 cubic feet (300 liters) of cargo space, enough for groceries, a small suitcase, or a weekend bag. The seats could be folded down to increase capacity, though not completely flat. Under the hood (or rather, under the front hood, as the motor was in the rear), there was a small “frunk” (front trunk) with about 2 cubic feet of space—perfect for storing the charging cable or emergency supplies.

Practical example: A daily commuter could fit a backpack, laptop bag, and a small cooler in the rear, with the charging cable neatly tucked in the frunk. For longer trips, owners often carried a portable 240V charger for faster recharging at public stations.

Driving Experience and Real-World Usability

City Driving: Where the Think Shined

The 2002 Ford Think was in its element in urban environments. Its compact size, tight turning radius, and instant torque made it perfect for navigating congested streets, squeezing into tight parking spots, and merging into traffic. The electric motor’s quiet operation reduced noise pollution—a benefit for both the driver and the surrounding community. At low speeds, the car was nearly silent, with only a faint whine from the motor.

Acceleration was smooth and linear, with no gear shifts to interrupt the flow. The regenerative braking system allowed for “one-pedal driving” in city traffic: lifting off the accelerator slowed the car significantly, reducing reliance on the friction brakes. This not only saved energy but also extended brake life.

Highway Limitations and Range Anxiety

While excellent for city use, the Think struggled on highways. Its top speed was limited to 70 mph (113 km/h), and maintaining that speed drained the battery quickly. At 70 mph, range could drop to 30–40 miles due to aerodynamic drag and high power demand. This made long-distance travel impractical without careful planning.

Range anxiety was a real concern for owners. With only a few public charging stations in 2002, drivers had to rely on home charging. A typical scenario: a driver commuting 25 miles each way would need to recharge nightly. If they forgot to plug in, the car might not make it home. Ford offered a “range extender” option in later models (a small gasoline generator), but the 2002 version had no such backup.

Weather and Terrain Considerations

The Think’s Na-NiCl2 battery performed well in cold weather, maintaining efficiency down to -20°C (-4°F). However, extreme heat could reduce range, and the lack of air conditioning made summer driving uncomfortable. The car was not designed for off-road use or steep hills. While it could handle mild inclines, sustained climbs in hilly areas (like San Francisco) could deplete the battery faster.

Tip: In hilly regions, drivers were advised to use regenerative braking on descents to recharge the battery and conserve energy. Planning routes with elevation changes became essential for maximizing range.

Legacy, Challenges, and Market Impact

Why the Think Failed to Gain Traction

Despite its innovative design and eco-friendly mission, the 2002 Ford Think was discontinued in 2003 after selling only about 1,100 units in the U.S. Several factors contributed to its failure:

• High price: At $25,000 (equivalent to ~$40,000 today), it was significantly more expensive than comparable gas-powered cars like the Honda Insight or Toyota Prius.
• Limited range: 50–60 miles was insufficient for many drivers, especially in suburban or rural areas.
• Charging infrastructure: Public EV charging was virtually nonexistent in 2002, forcing reliance on home charging.
• Consumer skepticism: Many buyers were hesitant to adopt electric vehicles due to unfamiliarity and concerns about reliability.
• Ford’s financial struggles: The company faced internal challenges and shifted focus to hybrid and SUV models.

Lessons Learned and Influence on Modern EVs

Though short-lived, the Think provided valuable lessons for Ford and the broader EV industry. It demonstrated the importance of affordability, charging infrastructure, and consumer education. Its Na-NiCl2 battery technology influenced later research into thermal batteries for EVs. The car’s compact, efficient design inspired urban EVs like the Nissan Leaf and BMW i3.

Today, the Think is remembered as a pioneer of sustainable mobility. Its emphasis on recycled materials, low emissions, and urban practicality aligns with modern EV values. Enthusiasts and collectors now seek out surviving models, preserving them as historical artifacts of the electric revolution.

Where Are They Now? The Think in the Collector Market

As of 2023, only a handful of 2002 Ford Think vehicles remain in drivable condition. They are prized by EV collectors, museums, and environmental advocates. Some have been retrofitted with modern lithium-ion batteries, extending their range to over 100 miles. Online communities, such as the Think Electric Car Forum, keep the legacy alive through restoration projects and technical support.

Technical Specifications at a Glance

Specification	Value
Model Year	2002–2003
Motor Type	Permanent Magnet DC
Power Output	44 hp (33 kW)
Torque	110 lb-ft (150 Nm)
Battery Type	Sodium-Nickel Chloride (Na-NiCl2)
Battery Capacity	28.3 kWh
Range (EPA)	50–60 miles (80–97 km)
Charging (120V)	10–12 hours
Charging (240V)	6–8 hours
Top Speed	70 mph (113 km/h)
0–30 mph	~5 seconds
Seating Capacity	2
Cargo Volume	10.6 cu ft (300 L)
Weight	1,550 lbs (703 kg)

Conclusion: A Visionary Vehicle Ahead of Its Time

The 2002 Ford Think Electric Car was more than just a failed experiment—it was a visionary leap into the future of transportation. At a time when electric vehicles were seen as niche or impractical, Ford took a risk with a compact, zero-emission city car that prioritized sustainability, efficiency, and urban usability. While it faced significant challenges—limited range, high cost, and lack of infrastructure—it laid the groundwork for the modern EV revolution. Its innovative use of recyclable materials, advanced battery technology, and driver-focused design demonstrated that electric mobility could be practical and appealing.

Today, as electric vehicles dominate headlines and automakers race to electrify their fleets, the Think serves as a reminder of the long journey to sustainable transportation. It was not the first EV, nor was it the most successful, but it was a crucial step in proving that electric cars could work—especially in the environments where they are needed most. For anyone interested in the history of EVs, the 2002 Ford Think is a must-study case: a bold, ambitious, and ultimately underappreciated pioneer that helped shape the world we drive in today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key specs of the 2002 Ford Think electric car?

The 2002 Ford Think features a 29 kW electric motor, a 19.2 kWh sodium-nickel chloride battery, and a top speed of 72 mph. It offers a range of 50–60 miles on a single charge, making it ideal for urban commuting.

How does the 2002 Ford Think compare to other electric cars of its time?

The 2002 Ford Think stood out with its compact design and eco-friendly battery technology, though its range was shorter than competitors like the Toyota RAV4 EV. Its affordability and simplicity made it a practical choice for early EV adopters.

What was the charging time for the 2002 Ford Think electric car?

The 2002 Ford Think required 6–8 hours for a full charge using a standard 120V outlet. A 240V charger could reduce this to around 4 hours, depending on battery condition and temperature.

Why did Ford discontinue the Think electric car?

Ford discontinued the 2002 Think due to low sales, high production costs, and limited battery technology at the time. The company shifted focus to hybrid and later full-electric models like the Focus Electric.

Is the 2002 Ford Think still a viable option for buyers today?

While nostalgic, the 2002 Ford Think is outdated by modern EV standards, with limited range and sparse charging infrastructure support. It’s better suited for collectors or enthusiasts rather than daily drivers.

What unique features did the 2002 Ford Think offer?

The 2002 Ford Think had a lightweight composite body, regenerative braking, and a simple interior focused on efficiency. Its “city car” design prioritized maneuverability and low environmental impact over luxury.