2013 Ford Electric Car Review Performance and Features Unveiled

The 2013 Ford Focus Electric delivers impressive zero-emission performance with a 100-mile range and a peppy 143-horsepower motor, making it a standout in its class. Packed with smart features like regenerative braking, SYNC voice control, and a user-friendly touchscreen, it blends efficiency with modern tech. With fast-charging capability and a sleek design, Ford’s 2013 EV proves practicality and innovation can coexist.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: 76-mile range meets daily commuting needs efficiently.
• Quick acceleration: 100% torque delivers smooth, instant power delivery.
• Low running costs: Saves significantly on fuel and maintenance long-term.
• Regen braking: Enhances efficiency while extending brake pad life.
• Tech-forward cabin: SYNC system simplifies connectivity and infotainment control.
• Compact size: Ideal for city driving but lacks cargo space.
• Early adopter appeal: Pioneering EV from Ford with proven reliability.

Introduction: The Dawn of Ford’s Electric Revolution

The year 2013 marked a pivotal moment in the automotive industry, especially for Ford, as the American automaker stepped boldly into the electric vehicle (EV) arena with the 2013 Ford Focus Electric. Amid growing environmental concerns, tightening emissions regulations, and rising consumer demand for sustainable transportation, Ford responded with a vehicle that combined its legacy of reliability with cutting-edge electric technology. The 2013 Ford electric car wasn’t just a response to Tesla’s early success—it was a statement: Ford was ready to compete in the EV space with a practical, well-engineered, and accessible option for everyday drivers.

Unlike earlier hybrid models or concept cars, the 2013 Focus Electric was Ford’s first fully electric vehicle to be mass-produced and sold in the United States. With a sleek design, a competitive range for its time, and a suite of smart technologies, it aimed to prove that electric cars could be both functional and desirable. This review dives deep into the performance, features, charging capabilities, and real-world usability of the 2013 Ford electric car, offering a comprehensive look at what made it stand out—and where it fell short—in an evolving EV market.

Design and Exterior: A Familiar Face with a Futuristic Twist

Styling That Blends In—And Stands Out

The 2013 Ford Focus Electric retained the core design language of the popular third-generation Focus, but with subtle yet significant updates to reflect its zero-emission nature. The front end featured a closed-off grille, a hallmark of electric vehicles, which improved aerodynamics and distinguished it from its gasoline-powered sibling. Instead of a traditional grille, a smooth panel with a blue-tinted Ford oval dominated the front fascia, signaling its eco-conscious identity.

Other exterior cues included unique 17-inch alloy wheels with aerodynamic covers, LED daytime running lights, and a discreet “ELECTRIC” badge on the rear liftgate. The car was available in five colors, including Tuxedo Black, Ingot Silver, and the standout “Electric Blue,” a hue specifically designed to highlight its EV status. While not flashy, the design was clean, modern, and functional—perfect for drivers who wanted an electric car without drawing excessive attention.

Dimensions and Practicality

With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches and an overall length of 171.6 inches, the Focus Electric was compact but spacious enough for four adults. The hatchback design offered 14.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 44.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. This made it ideal for city driving, errands, and weekend trips—especially compared to smaller EVs like the Mitsubishi i-MiEV or the Nissan Leaf (which offered 24 cu ft).

One practical example: A family in Portland, Oregon, reported using the Focus Electric for grocery runs and school drop-offs, praising the hatchback’s ease of loading and the car’s maneuverability in tight urban parking spaces. The car’s turning radius of 36 feet also made it highly agile in city environments.

Sustainability Touches

Ford emphasized eco-friendly materials in the Focus Electric’s construction. The interior featured recycled fabric upholstery made from 100% post-industrial materials, and the dashboard and trim used soy-based foam instead of petroleum-based alternatives. These choices not only reduced the car’s environmental footprint but also aligned with Ford’s broader sustainability goals.

Interior and Technology: Smart, Connected, and Comfortable

Spacious Cabin with Premium Touches

Inside, the 2013 Focus Electric offered a refined cabin that felt more upscale than many of its EV competitors. The seats were supportive, with the front seats offering 10-way power adjustment (including lumbar support) on higher trims. The cabin was quiet—thanks to the absence of engine noise—and the soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door panels elevated the overall feel.

Rear legroom was generous for a compact car, with 33.2 inches—comparable to the Honda Fit and better than the Chevrolet Spark EV. However, taller passengers might find headroom slightly tight due to the sloping roofline. Still, the panoramic sunroof (available on the top trim) helped open up the space and added a premium touch.

SYNC with MyFord Touch: A Game-Changer

The star of the interior was the SYNC with MyFord Touch infotainment system, a first for Ford’s electric lineup. This system included an 8-inch touchscreen, voice control, Bluetooth connectivity, and integration with smartphones via Ford’s AppLink platform. Drivers could use voice commands to make calls, send texts, or control music—hands-free and distraction-free.

For example, a tech-savvy driver in Austin, Texas, used the SYNC system to stream Spotify, navigate using voice-activated Google Maps, and even check the car’s battery status and charging schedule—all without taking eyes off the road. The system also supported apps like iHeartRadio and Pandora, making it one of the most connected EVs of its time.

EV-Specific Features and Displays

Unique to the Focus Electric was a customizable digital gauge cluster that displayed real-time energy usage, regenerative braking efficiency, and remaining range. Drivers could switch between three driving modes—Normal, Eco, and Sport—each adjusting throttle response and energy consumption. The Eco mode, in particular, helped maximize range by limiting power output and optimizing climate control.

The car also featured a SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a feature designed to educate drivers on efficient driving habits. It displayed a “leaf” symbol that grew fuller as driving efficiency improved, encouraging smoother acceleration and coasting. This gamified approach helped users extend their range by up to 10% in real-world tests.

Performance and Driving Experience: Smooth, Silent, and Efficient

Powertrain and Acceleration

Under the hood (or rather, under the floor), the 2013 Focus Electric housed a 107-kW electric motor powered by a 23-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The motor produced 143 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque—immediately available, thanks to the nature of electric motors. This translated to a 0–60 mph time of around 10.1 seconds, which was adequate for city driving and highway merging but not as brisk as the Tesla Model S (which hit 60 mph in under 6 seconds).

However, what the Focus Electric lacked in outright speed, it made up for in driving refinement. The instant torque delivery provided strong off-the-line acceleration, and the car felt nimble and responsive in stop-and-go traffic. Unlike gasoline engines, which need to rev to produce peak torque, the electric motor delivered maximum power from 0 rpm—perfect for quick getaways at traffic lights.

Regenerative Braking: A Learning Curve with Benefits

The Focus Electric featured regenerative braking, which recaptured energy during deceleration and coasting. When the driver lifted off the accelerator, the motor acted as a generator, slowing the car and recharging the battery. This system was highly effective in city driving, where frequent stops and starts allowed the car to recover energy.

Tip: For maximum efficiency, drivers were advised to use “one-pedal driving” by easing off the accelerator early when approaching stops. This reduced reliance on friction brakes and extended range. Some drivers reported gaining up to 5–7 miles of range per day through aggressive regen use—especially in hilly areas like San Francisco.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Focus Electric’s handling was a highlight. The battery pack, mounted low in the chassis, lowered the car’s center of gravity, improving stability and reducing body roll in corners. The steering was precise and well-weighted, and the suspension absorbed bumps and potholes with ease.

However, the added weight of the battery (around 300 lbs more than the gas Focus) made the car feel slightly heavier at highway speeds. This wasn’t a drawback per se—just a noticeable difference for drivers used to lighter compact cars. On long trips, the ride remained comfortable, but the extra mass could lead to slightly reduced fuel efficiency on highways.

Range, Charging, and Real-World Usability

EPA-Estimated Range and Efficiency

The 2013 Focus Electric was rated by the EPA for 76 miles of range on a full charge and achieved 110 MPGe (combined city/highway). This placed it slightly ahead of the Nissan Leaf (73 miles) and significantly ahead of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV (62 miles) but behind newer EVs like the Tesla Model S (265 miles).

While 76 miles was sufficient for most daily commutes—the average American drives 37 miles per day—it did limit the car’s appeal for long-distance travel. For example, a driver in Denver, Colorado, found the car ideal for work commutes and weekend errands but had to plan carefully for trips beyond 60 miles, especially in winter.

Charging Options and Times

The Focus Electric supported both Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging. Here’s how they compared:

• Level 1 (120V household outlet): ~20–25 hours for a full charge. Best for overnight top-ups or emergency use.
• Level 2 (240V home charger): ~3.5–4 hours for a full charge. Recommended for daily use.
• DC Fast Charging (optional): Not available on the 2013 model. A major limitation compared to the Leaf, which offered CHAdeMO fast charging.

Tip: Ford recommended installing a Level 2 charger at home for convenience. A 240V charger could be installed by a licensed electrician for $500–$1,000, depending on electrical panel upgrades. Many utility companies offered rebates—check local programs to reduce costs.

Real-World Range: Factors That Matter

While the EPA rating was 76 miles, real-world range varied based on driving habits, climate, and use of climate control. For instance:

• City driving: Up to 85 miles (due to frequent regen).
• Highway driving at 70+ mph: ~60 miles (air resistance increases energy use).
• Winter driving (with heater on): ~50–55 miles (battery efficiency drops in cold weather).

One driver in Minneapolis noted that pre-conditioning the cabin while the car was still plugged in (using the remote app) saved up to 10 miles of range on cold mornings. This feature allowed the heater to warm the car without draining the battery.

Technology and Safety: Innovation Meets Protection

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

The 2013 Focus Electric came with a suite of safety features that were advanced for its time. Standard equipment included:

• AdvanceTrac electronic stability control
• Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
• Six airbags (front, side, and side-curtain)
• Rearview camera (a rare feature in base models at the time)

Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and active park assist, which could parallel park the car with the press of a button. These features made the Focus Electric one of the safest compact EVs on the road.

Remote Connectivity and Smart Features

Ford’s MyFord Mobile app allowed owners to remotely monitor and control the car via smartphone. Key features included:

• Check battery level and charging status
• Start/stop charging
• Pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin
• Locate the car in a parking lot
• Schedule charging during off-peak hours to save on electricity costs

For example, a user in Seattle used the app to start charging at 11:00 PM, when electricity rates were lowest, and pre-heated the cabin at 7:00 AM before driving to work—all from their phone.

Data Table: 2013 Ford Focus Electric Specifications

Specification	Value
Motor Power	143 hp (107 kW)
Torque	184 lb-ft
Battery Capacity	23 kWh lithium-ion
EPA Range	76 miles
MPGe (Combined)	110 MPGe
0–60 mph	10.1 seconds
Level 1 Charging (120V)	20–25 hours
Level 2 Charging (240V)	3.5–4 hours
Seating Capacity	5
Cargo Volume (rear seats up)	14.5 cu ft
Starting MSRP	$39,200 (before federal tax credit)

Conclusion: A Pioneering Step with Lasting Impact

The 2013 Ford Focus Electric was more than just a car—it was a statement of intent from an American automaker stepping into the future. While it didn’t match the range or charging speed of today’s EVs, it was a pioneering effort that brought practicality, comfort, and smart technology to the electric vehicle market. Its 76-mile range, while modest by modern standards, was competitive in 2013 and sufficient for most urban and suburban drivers.

What truly set the 2013 Ford electric car apart was its holistic approach. From the SYNC infotainment system and regenerative braking to the eco-conscious materials and advanced safety features, Ford didn’t just electrify a car—it reimagined the driving experience for a sustainable era. The car’s quiet cabin, responsive handling, and smart features made it a joy to drive, while its hatchback practicality appealed to families and commuters alike.

Though the Focus Electric was discontinued in 2018, its legacy lives on. It paved the way for Ford’s later successes, including the Mustang Mach-E and the F-150 Lightning, proving that Ford could innovate in the EV space. For those considering a used EV today, the 2013 Focus Electric remains a solid, affordable option—especially for city dwellers and short-range commuters. With a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 (at the time) and lower operating costs than gasoline cars, it offered real value.

In the grand narrative of automotive evolution, the 2013 Ford electric car wasn’t the fastest or the flashiest, but it was thoughtful, well-rounded, and forward-thinking. It reminded us that the future of transportation isn’t just about speed or range—it’s about creating vehicles that fit seamlessly into our lives, reduce our impact on the planet, and make every drive a little smarter. The 2013 Ford Focus Electric may have been a first step, but it was a bold and important one.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2013 Ford electric car?

The 2013 Ford Focus Electric offers an EPA-estimated range of 76 miles on a full charge, making it ideal for daily commutes and urban driving. This range was competitive among early 2010s electric vehicles.

How does the 2013 Ford electric car perform compared to gas models?

The 2013 Ford Focus Electric delivers instant torque with its 143-hp electric motor, providing smooth acceleration, though its top speed is limited to 84 mph. It lacks the highway power of gas-powered counterparts but excels in city driving.

What charging options are available for the 2013 Ford electric car?

The 2013 Ford electric car supports Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging, with a full charge taking 3–4 hours using a 240V station. A standard household outlet adds about 4 miles of range per hour.

Does the 2013 Ford electric car have fast-charging capability?

No, the 2013 Ford Focus Electric does not support DC fast charging, a limitation of its era. Owners must rely on Level 2 chargers for quicker refills, which may affect long-distance travel convenience.

What are the standout features of the 2013 Ford electric car?

The 2013 Ford electric car includes heated seats, a 10-speaker Sony audio system, and SYNC infotainment with smartphone integration. Regenerative braking and a customizable dashboard display enhance the eco-friendly driving experience.

Is the 2013 Ford electric car reliable for long-term use?

The 2013 Ford Focus Electric has proven reliable for daily use, with minimal maintenance needs due to fewer moving parts. However, battery degradation over time may reduce its original 76-mile range after a decade.