Electric Car Ford Focus Review Top Features and Performance Insights

The Ford Focus Electric delivers impressive efficiency and a smooth, quiet ride, making it a standout in the compact EV segment. With a 115-mile range and fast-charging capability, it balances practicality and performance for daily commuters. Packed with smart tech and responsive handling, it proves eco-friendly driving doesn’t mean sacrificing fun.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 300 miles on a single charge.
• Fast charging: 80% battery in just 30 minutes.
• Smooth performance: Instant torque for quick, quiet acceleration.
• Advanced tech: SYNC 4 system with seamless smartphone integration.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin with smart storage solutions.
• Strong safety: Co-Pilot360 features for confident driving.

The Electric Ford Focus: A New Chapter in Compact EV Innovation

The automotive world is undergoing a transformative shift, with electric vehicles (EVs) rapidly becoming the standard for sustainable mobility. Among the pioneers in this transition is Ford, a company with deep roots in American automotive history. The electric car Ford Focus represents a bold step forward—not just for Ford, but for the compact EV segment as a whole. While the original Ford Focus was already a beloved compact car known for its agility, reliability, and value, the electrified version elevates the formula with zero-emission driving, modern technology, and improved performance. This isn’t just a car with a battery; it’s a reimagined vehicle designed for the future of urban and suburban commuting.

As cities tighten emissions regulations and consumers demand greener, smarter transportation, the electric car Ford Focus enters the market at a pivotal moment. With increasing competition from Tesla, Hyundai, Kia, and Volkswagen, Ford needed to deliver more than just a battery-powered version of an old favorite. The result is a vehicle that blends practicality, affordability, and innovation—offering up to 150 miles of range (depending on trim), fast-charging capabilities, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer or a seasoned eco-conscious driver, the electric Focus aims to make the switch to electric not only viable but enjoyable. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into its top features, performance metrics, real-world usability, and what sets it apart in a crowded EV landscape.

Powertrain and Performance: Efficiency Meets Driving Fun

Electric Motor and Battery Configuration

At the heart of the electric car Ford Focus is a single permanent magnet synchronous motor mounted on the front axle, delivering 143 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque. While this may seem modest compared to high-performance EVs, it’s perfectly tuned for a compact hatchback. The 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is neatly integrated into the chassis, lowering the center of gravity and improving handling without compromising interior space. This configuration allows the Focus EV to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.7 seconds—respectably quick for a car in this class and more than enough for city driving and highway merging.

The battery is air-cooled, which helps reduce complexity and cost, though it can lead to slightly reduced fast-charging efficiency in extreme temperatures. Ford has implemented intelligent thermal management to mitigate this, but drivers in hot climates should be mindful of repeated DC fast-charging sessions. The electric motor is paired with a single-speed transmission, offering smooth, seamless acceleration—a hallmark of electric vehicles. Unlike internal combustion engines, there are no gear shifts or turbo lag, resulting in a quiet, responsive driving experience.

Real-World Range and Charging Options

One of the most critical factors for any EV buyer is range, and the electric car Ford Focus delivers a real-world range of 140–155 miles on a full charge, depending on driving conditions, terrain, and climate. This makes it ideal for daily commutes under 50 miles, school runs, and weekend errands. For example, a typical urban driver in Seattle averaging 30 miles per day would only need to charge the Focus every 4–5 days, assuming moderate use of climate control.

Charging flexibility is a strong suit. The car supports three charging levels:

• Level 1 (120V): Adds about 4 miles of range per hour—best for emergency or overnight top-ups at home.
• Level 2 (240V): Using a standard home charging station, it replenishes the battery in 6–8 hours, ideal for nightly charging.
• DC Fast Charging (up to 100 kW): Can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in about 45 minutes at public stations—perfect for road trips or unexpected low-battery situations.

Tip: To maximize battery longevity, Ford recommends keeping the charge between 20% and 80% for daily use. Reserve full charges for longer journeys. Many owners install a Level 2 charger at home (cost: $500–$1,200 including installation) to simplify charging and reduce reliance on public networks.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

Thanks to its low-slung battery pack and revised suspension tuning, the electric Focus handles with surprising agility. The steering is direct and responsive, with a tight turning radius (35.8 feet) that makes it easy to maneuver in tight city streets and parallel park in dense urban areas. The regenerative braking system offers two modes: “Low” for a more traditional coasting feel and “High” for one-pedal driving, where lifting off the accelerator slows the car significantly—ideal for stop-and-go traffic.

For example, during a test drive in downtown Chicago, the Focus EV effortlessly navigated rush-hour congestion, with the high regen mode reducing brake wear and increasing energy recovery. The ride is slightly firmer than the gas-powered Focus, which some may find more engaging, though passengers might notice minor road imperfections on rough pavement. Overall, the driving experience strikes a balance between comfort and sportiness, making the electric car Ford Focus a joy to drive daily.

Interior Design and Technology: Smart, Spacious, and Connected

Cabin Layout and Material Quality

Step inside the electric car Ford Focus, and you’re greeted with a clean, modern interior that blends functionality with a touch of sophistication. The dashboard features a minimalist design with soft-touch materials on key touchpoints—doors, center console, and upper dash—though some lower panels use harder plastics to keep costs down. The seating is supportive, with cloth or optional eco-leather upholstery, and the driver’s seat offers six-way manual adjustment (eight-way with optional package).

Despite being a compact car, the Focus EV feels surprisingly spacious. Front headroom is generous at 39.1 inches, and rear legroom measures 33.2 inches—enough for average-sized adults. The flat floor (thanks to no transmission tunnel) enhances rear passenger comfort. Trunk space is 13.2 cubic feet, expandable to 34.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded—competitive for the class and sufficient for grocery runs, strollers, or weekend getaways.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The centerpiece of the interior is the 8-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen infotainment system, which runs on Ford’s latest software platform. It supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and USB-C connectivity. The interface is intuitive, with large icons and responsive touch controls. Voice commands work well for navigation, music, and phone calls, reducing driver distraction.

Unique to the electric car Ford Focus is the EV-specific menu, which displays real-time energy flow, charging status, and regenerative braking efficiency. The system also includes:

• FordPass Connect: A built-in 4G LTE hotspot for up to 10 devices, with a 3-month/3GB trial.

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• Remote Start & Climate Control: Pre-condition the cabin via smartphone app—crucial in freezing or hot climates.
• Navigation with EV Routing: Finds nearby charging stations and estimates arrival charge level.

Tip: Use the FordPass app to schedule charging during off-peak hours (e.g., midnight to 6 AM) to save on electricity bills. Many utility companies offer discounted EV rates during these times.

Driver Assistance and Safety Tech

Safety is a priority, and the Focus EV comes standard with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite of driver aids. Key features include:

• Pre-Collision Assist with AEB: Detects pedestrians and vehicles, applying brakes if the driver doesn’t react.

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• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS): Alerts you to vehicles in adjacent lanes during lane changes.
• Lane-Keeping System: Gently steers the car back into its lane if drifting occurs.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (optional): Maintains a set speed and distance from the car ahead, reducing highway fatigue.

During a 120-mile highway journey in Colorado, the adaptive cruise and lane-keeping systems proved invaluable, especially in heavy traffic. The system smoothly accelerated and braked in response to changing speeds, making long drives less tiring. The 360-degree camera (available on higher trims) is a boon for parking in tight spots.

Charging Infrastructure and Ownership Experience

Home Charging Setup

For most electric car Ford Focus owners, home charging will be the primary method. Installing a Level 2 charger is highly recommended. Ford partners with Qmerit for professional installation, which typically takes 4–6 hours and costs $600–$1,000 (before rebates). Many states and utility companies offer incentives—California’s SGIP program, for example, can cover up to 80% of installation costs.

To optimize charging:

• Use a dedicated 240V circuit (40–50 amps).
• Install a smart charger (e.g., ChargePoint, Enel X) for scheduling and monitoring.
• Consider solar panels to offset charging costs and reduce carbon footprint.

Example: A homeowner in Austin, TX, installed a 50-amp charger and uses solar power, reducing their annual charging cost to under $150.

Public Charging Network and Compatibility

The Focus EV uses the CCS (Combined Charging System) DC fast-charging standard, compatible with major networks like Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint. Ford provides two years of free charging at Electrify America stations (up to 200 kWh), a significant perk that reduces early ownership costs.

Public charging etiquette tips:

• Always unplug when charging is complete—don’t “camp” at stations.
• Use apps like PlugShare to check real-time charger availability.
• Carry a Level 2 portable charger for backup (included with the car).

Note: The Focus EV does not support Tesla’s Superchargers without an adapter (sold separately), which limits access to Tesla’s extensive network.

Maintenance and Running Costs

One of the biggest advantages of the electric car Ford Focus is low maintenance. With no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems, service intervals are longer. Ford recommends inspections every 20,000 miles or 24 months, focusing on brakes (due to regen), tires, and cabin air filters.

Annual ownership costs (estimated):

• Electricity: $400–$600 (at $0.12/kWh, 12,000 miles/year).
• Maintenance: $200–$300 (vs. $600+ for gas models).
• Insurance: Similar to gas Focus (~$1,200/year).

Plus, many states offer EV tax credits, reduced registration fees, and HOV lane access—further sweetening the deal.

Trim Levels and Pricing: Finding the Right Fit

Available Trims and Features

The electric car Ford Focus is available in three trims: SE, SEL, and Titanium. Each offers a distinct balance of price and features.

Trim	Starting MSRP	Key Features	Best For
SE	$30,500	8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 16-inch alloy wheels, Ford Co-Pilot360	Budget-conscious buyers, city commuters
SEL	$33,200	Heated front seats, 17-inch wheels, dual-zone climate, power driver seat	Families, tech enthusiasts
Titanium	$36,800	Leather upholstery, adaptive cruise, 360-degree camera, premium audio	Buyers wanting luxury and convenience

Incentives and Final Cost

After federal tax credits (up to $7,500, depending on income) and state rebates (e.g., $2,000 in New York), the effective price of the SE trim can drop to $21,000–$23,000. Leasing is also attractive, with rates as low as $299/month (after incentives) on a 36-month term.

Tip: Always check for local EV incentives—some cities offer free parking, reduced tolls, or home charger rebates. Use the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center to find programs in your area.

Competitive Landscape and Who Should Buy the Electric Ford Focus?

How It Stacks Up Against Rivals

The electric car Ford Focus competes directly with the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Nissan Leaf, and Kia Niro EV. Here’s how it compares:

• Range: 150 miles vs. Bolt EV’s 259 miles—Focus lags, but sufficient for most users.
• Charging Speed: 100 kW DC vs. Bolt’s 55 kW—Focus wins on speed.
• Price: $30.5K vs. Leaf’s $28.8K—Focus offers better tech and warranty.
• Warranty: 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty (same as rivals).

The Focus stands out for its driving dynamics, Ford’s trusted brand reputation, and seamless integration with existing FordPass ecosystem (e.g., shared accounts with F-150 Lightning owners).

Ideal Buyer Profile

The electric car Ford Focus is perfect for:

• Urban professionals with short commutes and access to charging.
• Families needing a reliable second car or school-run vehicle.
• First-time EV owners seeking an affordable, low-maintenance entry point.
• Eco-conscious drivers who value sustainability without sacrificing fun.

It’s less suited for long-haul drivers or those without home charging access. For cross-country trips, consider the Ford Mustang Mach-E or F-150 Lightning.

Final Verdict: A Smart, Sustainable Choice for the Modern Driver

The electric car Ford Focus is more than just a green alternative to the gas-powered version—it’s a well-rounded, technologically advanced compact EV that delivers on performance, practicality, and value. While its 150-mile range may not lead the class, it’s more than adequate for the majority of daily driving needs, and its fast-charging capability ensures you’re never stranded. The refined interior, intuitive tech, and strong safety features make it a compelling package for families, commuters, and first-time EV adopters alike.

What truly sets the Focus EV apart is Ford’s holistic approach to ownership. From seamless integration with the FordPass app and Electrify America’s free charging network to low running costs and generous incentives, Ford has addressed many of the pain points that deter potential EV buyers. The car’s agile handling and responsive electric motor also ensure that driving remains enjoyable—proving that eco-friendly doesn’t mean boring.

In a market flooded with high-priced, long-range EVs, the electric car Ford Focus stands out by focusing on what matters most: real-world usability, affordability, and reliability. It may not have the flash of a Tesla or the range of a Hyundai Ioniq 5, but it offers a balanced, no-nonsense approach to electric mobility. For anyone considering a compact EV that’s easy to live with, fun to drive, and kind to the planet, the Ford Focus Electric is a top contender worth serious consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top features of the electric car Ford Focus?

The electric Ford Focus boasts a 143-mile EPA-estimated range, a 100-kW DC fast-charging capability (80% in 30 minutes), and advanced tech like SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. It also offers regenerative braking for improved efficiency and a spacious interior with eco-friendly materials.

How does the performance of the Ford Focus Electric compare to gas models?

The Focus Electric delivers instant torque with its 143-hp motor, offering quicker 0-60 mph acceleration (~7.7 seconds) than the base gas model. While top speed is limited to 84 mph, its smooth, quiet ride and lower center of gravity enhance handling.

What is the charging time for the electric car Ford Focus?

Using a 240V Level 2 charger, the Focus Electric fully charges in about 5 hours. With a DC fast charger, you can reach 80% capacity in 30 minutes—ideal for longer trips. A standard 120V outlet takes 18-20 hours.

Is the Ford Focus Electric available nationwide?

Initially, the Focus Electric was limited to select states like California, but availability expanded to all 50 states by 2018. Check with local dealers for inventory and incentives, as stock may vary by region.

How does the Ford Focus Electric handle cold weather?

The Focus Electric includes a battery heating system to maintain efficiency in cold climates, though extreme temperatures can reduce range by up to 30%. Pre-conditioning while plugged in helps preserve battery life and cabin warmth.

What safety features does the electric car Ford Focus offer?

The Focus Electric comes standard with Ford’s Co-Pilot360, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Its reinforced battery enclosure meets rigorous safety standards for collision protection.