2014 Ford Focus Electric Car Review Pros Cons and Performance

The 2014 Ford Focus Electric delivers a smooth, quiet ride with an EPA-estimated 76 MPGe, making it a solid choice for eco-conscious commuters seeking efficiency without sacrificing comfort. Spacious interior and user-friendly tech highlight its practicality, though limited range and slow DC fast-charging capability may deter long-distance drivers. Balanced performance and low operating costs round out this compelling electric hatchback.

Key Takeaways

• Zero emissions: Ideal for eco-conscious drivers seeking a clean commute.
• 76-mile range: Best for short to medium daily drives, not long hauls.
• Quick charging: 30-minute fast charge adds 25 miles—plan stops wisely.
• Smooth handling: Responsive steering and quiet ride enhance urban driving.
• Limited cargo space: Rear seats sacrifice storage; pack light for trips.
• Outdated tech: Upgrade infotainment for modern connectivity features.

The Dawn of Ford’s Electric Revolution: A Look at the 2014 Focus Electric

The automotive world in the early 2010s was undergoing a seismic shift. As environmental concerns grew and fuel prices remained volatile, automakers scrambled to deliver viable electric vehicles (EVs) that could appeal to mainstream consumers. Among them, Ford stepped into the fray with the 2014 Ford Focus Electric, its first all-electric passenger car developed from the ground up. Unlike earlier attempts that repurposed internal combustion models, the Focus Electric was engineered specifically for battery-powered performance, signaling Ford’s serious commitment to electrification. This wasn’t just a compliance car—it was a bold statement that Ford aimed to compete in the rapidly evolving EV landscape.

Launched at a time when the Tesla Model S was redefining expectations and the Nissan Leaf had established early market dominance, the 2014 Focus Electric entered a niche but growing segment. It promised zero tailpipe emissions, a quiet driving experience, and the practicality of a compact hatchback wrapped in Ford’s familiar styling. For eco-conscious drivers seeking an alternative to gas-powered compacts, the Focus Electric offered a compelling package. But did it deliver on its promise? In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into the 2014 Ford Focus Electric car’s performance, technology, real-world usability, and long-term value. Whether you’re an EV enthusiast, a potential buyer, or simply curious about Ford’s early electric journey, this guide will provide the insights you need to understand what made this vehicle a milestone—and where it fell short.

Design and Exterior: Subtle Sophistication with a Green Edge

The 2014 Ford Focus Electric doesn’t scream “electric” from the rooftops—and that was intentional. Ford opted for a design that blended seamlessly with the standard Focus lineup, ensuring it wouldn’t alienate buyers who weren’t ready to embrace radical aesthetics. However, subtle yet meaningful changes set it apart, both for branding and aerodynamic efficiency.

Exterior Styling and Aerodynamics

At first glance, the Focus Electric looks nearly identical to its gasoline-powered sibling, but closer inspection reveals key differences. The most noticeable is the closed-off grille, which replaces the traditional open grille to reduce drag and improve aerodynamics. This feature, common in many EVs, gives the front end a cleaner, more futuristic appearance. The headlights feature unique LED accents, and the lower bumper includes a distinct lower air dam designed to channel airflow efficiently.

Aerodynamic wheels—specifically, 17-inch machined aluminum wheels with low-rolling-resistance tires—further enhance efficiency. These wheels reduce energy loss from friction, helping extend the car’s range. The rear spoiler, slightly larger than on the standard Focus, also contributes to reduced drag. Overall, the Focus Electric achieves a drag coefficient of 0.29, which is quite competitive for a compact hatchback of its era.

Practical Tip: If you’re considering a used 2014 Focus Electric, inspect the condition of the low-rolling-resistance tires. Worn or improperly inflated tires can significantly reduce range and efficiency. Consider replacing them with modern equivalents designed for EVs, such as the Michelin Energy Saver A/S, to maximize performance.

Color Options and Branding

The 2014 model was available in five exterior colors: White Platinum, Ingot Silver, Tuxedo Black, Sterling Gray, and Electric Blue. The latter, a vibrant electric blue, was exclusive to the EV model and served as a visual cue of its green credentials. Inside, the car features unique badging, including an “Electric” emblem on the liftgate and a subtle “EV” badge on the front fenders.

While the design is understated, it appeals to buyers who want an eco-friendly car without drawing attention. Unlike more flamboyant EVs like the BMW i3, the Focus Electric doesn’t make a fashion statement—it makes a practical one. This approach helped it blend into suburban driveways and city parking lots without standing out as a “science experiment.”

Charging Port and Practical Features

The charging port is located on the driver’s side front fender, a design choice that makes it easily accessible at most public charging stations. It’s covered by a flush-mounted door that opens with the press of a button on the key fob or inside the car. The port supports both Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging, a standard at the time.

One clever feature is the “Charge Now” button on the key fob, which allows drivers to start charging remotely—especially useful if the car is parked in a garage or if you want to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates. This small but thoughtful addition enhances usability and convenience.

Interior and Technology: A Tech-Forward Cabin with a Learning Curve

Step inside the 2014 Focus Electric, and you’re greeted by an interior that feels familiar yet futuristic. Ford leveraged its SYNC infotainment system and MyFord Touch interface to create a cabin that prioritized connectivity and driver information—critical for an EV where energy management is key.

Infotainment and SYNC System

The centerpiece of the interior is the 8-inch touchscreen running the MyFord Touch system, which was still in its early days of adoption. While visually impressive, the system had a reputation for being slow and occasionally glitchy—issues that Ford later addressed in updated versions. The interface includes navigation, climate control, and a dedicated EV menu that displays energy usage, charging status, and regenerative braking performance.

The EV-specific screen is particularly useful. It shows real-time energy flow (e.g., whether power is going to the wheels, being regenerated, or stored in the battery), estimated range, and even a “fuel economy” equivalent measured in kWh/100 miles. Drivers can also set charging schedules to optimize electricity costs.

Practical Tip: If you own or plan to buy a 2014 Focus Electric, consider updating the MyFord Touch software if it hasn’t been done. Ford released several updates between 2014 and 2016 that improved responsiveness and fixed bugs. Check with a Ford dealer or use a USB drive to download the latest version from Ford’s website.

Driver Assistance and Energy Management Tools

One standout feature is the SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a dual-display instrument cluster that replaces traditional gauges. The left side shows speed and battery state-of-charge, while the right side includes customizable displays for efficiency, trip data, and regenerative braking feedback. A “Brake Coach” function encourages efficient driving by rewarding smooth braking, which maximizes energy recovery.

The system also includes a “Range Map” that estimates how far you can drive based on current battery charge, driving habits, and terrain. This feature was ahead of its time and helped reduce range anxiety by giving drivers confidence in their vehicle’s capabilities.

Comfort and Practicality

The interior materials are a mix of hard plastics and soft-touch surfaces—typical for a compact car in this price range. The front seats are supportive, and the driving position is excellent, with good visibility. Rear seat space is adequate for two adults, though legroom is tighter than in larger EVs like the Tesla Model S.

Cargo capacity is a strong point: the hatchback design offers 14.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 43.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The battery pack is mounted under the floor, so it doesn’t intrude into cabin or trunk space—a major advantage over some competitors that had compromised interiors due to battery placement.

Climate control is electric (no engine heat), so the cabin can be pre-conditioned while charging—a major benefit in cold weather. Using the Ford Remote Access app (available on smartphones), drivers can start the car, set the temperature, and even check charge status remotely.

Performance and Driving Experience: Smooth, Silent, and Surprisingly Capable

How does the 2014 Focus Electric drive? In a word: smooth. The electric powertrain delivers instant torque, quiet operation, and a driving experience that’s both relaxing and engaging—especially in urban environments.

Powertrain and Acceleration

The Focus Electric is powered by a 143-horsepower (107 kW) electric motor and a 23 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It produces 184 lb-ft of torque, available the moment you press the accelerator. This results in brisk acceleration: 0 to 60 mph takes about 9.6 seconds, which is competitive for its class. While not a sports car, the Focus Electric feels quicker than its gas-powered counterpart, especially from a stoplight.

The single-speed direct-drive transmission ensures seamless power delivery—no gear shifts, no engine noise, just smooth forward motion. The car is exceptionally quiet at low speeds, with only a faint whine from the electric motor and some tire noise on rough pavement.

Regenerative Braking and Driving Modes

One of the most important features for EV efficiency is regenerative braking. The Focus Electric uses a blended braking system that recovers energy when you lift off the accelerator or apply the brakes. The regen is strong enough to allow “one-pedal driving” in many situations—coasting to a stop without using the friction brakes.

There are two driving modes: Drive (D) and Low (L). In Drive, regen is moderate, making the car feel more like a traditional vehicle. In Low mode, regen is maximized, allowing for greater energy recovery and a more responsive deceleration. Many drivers prefer Low mode in city traffic, where frequent stops make regen most effective.

Practical Tip: Use Low mode during daily commutes to maximize range. However, in highway driving or on long trips, switch to Drive for a more relaxed, coast-friendly experience.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Focus Electric retains the standard Focus’s excellent handling characteristics. The steering is precise, the suspension is well-tuned for comfort, and the low center of gravity (thanks to the underfloor battery) improves stability. The car feels planted and confident in corners, with minimal body roll.

However, the added weight of the battery pack (about 300 lbs more than the gas model) can make the car feel slightly heavier over bumps. Ride quality is still good, but not quite as agile as the lighter gas-powered Focus ST. That said, for a daily driver, the balance of comfort and control is excellent.

Braking performance is strong, with the regenerative system helping to reduce wear on the friction brakes. The car comes equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and stability control as standard.

Range, Charging, and Real-World Efficiency

Range is the make-or-break factor for any EV, and the 2014 Focus Electric faced stiff competition from the Nissan Leaf (84-mile range) and the Chevrolet Spark EV (82 miles). Let’s break down how it performs in the real world.

Official Range and EPA Ratings

The EPA rated the 2014 Focus Electric at 76 miles of range on a full charge. This is less than the Leaf’s 84 miles, but the difference is due to the Focus’s larger size, weight, and aerodynamic profile. In real-world driving, most owners report 65–70 miles under mixed conditions (city and highway), with some achieving up to 75 miles in optimal conditions (e.g., mild weather, city driving).

The EPA also gives the Focus Electric an energy efficiency rating of 105 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) combined, with 110 MPGe city and 99 MPGe highway. This means it uses about 32 kWh per 100 miles—very efficient for a car of its size.

Charging Options and Times

The Focus Electric supports:

• Level 1 (120V): ~20 hours for a full charge
• Level 2 (240V): ~3.5–4 hours with the optional 6.6 kW onboard charger

Ford offered a 6.6 kW charger as an option (standard on some trims), which cut charging time significantly compared to the base 3.3 kW charger. Most owners opted for the faster charger, especially if they had access to a 240V outlet at home.

Practical Tip: If you’re buying a used Focus Electric, confirm whether it has the 6.6 kW charger. Upgrading from 3.3 kW to 6.6 kW can save hours on charging time and is worth the investment if you frequently need a quick turnaround.

Real-World Range Scenarios

Here’s how the range holds up in different situations:

• City driving (stop-and-go): 70–75 miles (regen helps)
• Highway driving (65–70 mph): 55–60 miles (higher speeds reduce range)
• Cold weather (below 32°F): 50–55 miles (battery and cabin heating reduce efficiency)
• Hot weather (above 90°F): 60–65 miles (AC use impacts range)

Using the car’s preconditioning feature while still plugged in can help mitigate cold-weather range loss. Pre-heating or cooling the cabin while charging means the car uses grid power, not battery power, to maintain comfort.

Data Table: 2014 Focus Electric vs. Key Competitors

Model	Range (EPA)	Motor Power	Charging Time (Level 2)	MPGe (Combined)
2014 Ford Focus Electric	76 miles	143 hp	3.5–4 hrs (6.6 kW)	105
2014 Nissan Leaf	84 miles	107 hp	4–5 hrs (6.6 kW)	114
2014 Chevrolet Spark EV	82 miles	140 hp	7 hrs (3.3 kW)	119
2014 Tesla Model S (60 kWh)	208 miles	362 hp	6–8 hrs (8.8 kW)	95

Pros, Cons, and Long-Term Ownership Considerations

The 2014 Ford Focus Electric was a solid entry into the EV market, but like any vehicle, it has strengths and weaknesses. Let’s break them down to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.

The Pros: Why Buy a 2014 Focus Electric?

• Zero Emissions: Perfect for eco-conscious drivers and urban commuters.
• Smooth, Quiet Ride: Electric powertrain eliminates engine noise and vibrations.
• Low Operating Costs: Electricity is cheaper than gas, and EVs require less maintenance (no oil changes, fewer moving parts).
• Regenerative Braking: Extends range and reduces brake wear.
• Hatchback Practicality: Spacious cargo area and flexible interior layout.
• Remote Access and Preconditioning: Use your phone to start, lock, or pre-heat the car.
• Strong Safety Ratings: 5-star NHTSA overall rating and good IIHS crash test results.

The Cons: Where It Falls Short

• Limited Range: 76 miles is tight by today’s standards and may not suit longer commutes.
• No DC Fast Charging: Unlike newer EVs, it can’t use fast chargers—only Level 1 and Level 2.
• Outdated Infotainment: MyFord Touch can be sluggish and prone to glitches.
• Higher Upfront Cost: MSRP was around $39,200, though federal and state incentives reduced it significantly.
• Battery Degradation: Older models may have reduced range due to battery wear (typically 10–20% loss over 8–10 years).

Long-Term Ownership and Maintenance

EVs are generally cheaper to maintain than gas cars. The Focus Electric requires:

• No oil changes
• No spark plugs or timing belts
• Less brake maintenance (due to regen)
• Annual inspections of the battery and charging system

Ford offered an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty with capacity retention guarantees. Many 2014 models are now approaching or past this limit, so check the battery health before buying. A battery replacement could cost $5,000–$8,000, though remanufactured options may be cheaper.

Used prices today range from $6,000 to $10,000, making it an affordable entry into EV ownership—if you understand its limitations.

Conclusion: A Pioneering Effort with Lasting Value

The 2014 Ford Focus Electric may not have revolutionized the EV market like the Tesla Model S, but it was a crucial stepping stone in Ford’s electrification journey. It combined the practicality of a compact hatchback with the benefits of electric power, offering a quiet, efficient, and enjoyable driving experience for urban and suburban drivers. While its 76-mile range and lack of fast charging limit its appeal for long-distance travelers, it remains a smart choice for city dwellers, second-car households, or anyone seeking a low-cost, low-emission commuter.

Its legacy lives on in Ford’s current EV lineup, including the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, which build on the lessons learned from the Focus Electric. For today’s used car buyer, the 2014 Focus Electric represents a budget-friendly gateway to electric driving—a chance to experience the future of mobility at a fraction of the cost.

If you prioritize sustainability, low running costs, and a refined driving experience over cutting-edge technology or long range, the 2014 Ford Focus Electric still holds up remarkably well. It’s not just a car—it’s a statement that Ford was serious about electrification, even a decade ago. And for that, it deserves recognition as a pioneering effort that helped pave the way for the electric revolution we’re experiencing today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2014 Ford Focus Electric car?

The 2014 Ford Focus Electric has an EPA-estimated range of 76 miles on a full charge, making it suitable for daily commutes and city driving. This range is competitive for its time but may fall short compared to newer EV models.

How long does it take to charge the 2014 Ford Focus Electric?

Using a 240V Level 2 charger, the 2014 Ford Focus Electric can fully charge in about 3.5 to 4 hours. With a standard 120V outlet, charging takes significantly longer—up to 20 hours.

What are the standout features of the 2014 Ford Focus Electric car?

The 2014 Ford Focus Electric includes key features like regenerative braking, SYNC infotainment, and a quiet, smooth ride. It also offers smartphone integration and an energy-efficient heat pump system.

What are the pros and cons of the 2014 Ford Focus Electric?

Pros include low operating costs, responsive handling, and a comfortable interior. Cons are limited range, slow acceleration, and outdated infotainment compared to rivals.

Is the 2014 Ford Focus Electric reliable?

The 2014 Ford Focus Electric is generally reliable, with few major mechanical issues reported. However, some owners note battery degradation over time, especially in extreme climates.

How does the 2014 Ford Focus Electric compare to gas-powered models?

The 2014 Ford Focus Electric delivers quieter acceleration and lower fuel costs than gas models but sacrifices cargo space due to the battery pack and has a higher upfront price.