Ford 2015 Electric Cars A Complete Review of Features and Performance

The 2015 Ford electric car lineup, led by the Focus Electric, delivers a compelling blend of efficiency, practicality, and smart technology for eco-conscious drivers. With an EPA-estimated 76-mile range, responsive handling, and fast 30-minute DC charging (on higher trims), it stands out in the early EV market. Standard features like SYNC 3 infotainment, regenerative braking, and a quiet cabin make it a well-rounded choice for urban commuters and tech-savvy buyers alike.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Ford 2015 EVs deliver up to 84 miles per charge.
• Fast charging: Recharge 80% in 30 minutes with DC fast charging.
• Smooth ride: Instant torque ensures responsive and quiet acceleration.
• Smart tech: Sync 3 infotainment offers intuitive voice and touch controls.
• Safety first: Standard rearview camera and advanced driver aids included.
• Eco-friendly: Zero emissions with lower maintenance than gas models.

The Dawn of a New Era: Ford’s 2015 Electric Vehicle Revolution

The year 2015 marked a pivotal moment in Ford’s journey toward electrification. As the automotive industry grappled with climate concerns, tightening emissions regulations, and rising consumer demand for sustainable mobility, Ford responded with a bold step into the electric vehicle (EV) market. While Tesla had already captured headlines with its Model S, Ford aimed to bring electric driving to the mainstream with a focus on affordability, practicality, and brand reliability. The result was the 2015 Ford Focus Electric—a compact, all-electric hatchback designed to compete head-on with the Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Spark EV, and other early adopters in the EV segment.

What set Ford apart in 2015 wasn’t just the technology under the hood, but its commitment to making EVs accessible to everyday drivers. With over 100 years of automotive experience, Ford leveraged its engineering prowess to create a vehicle that didn’t compromise on comfort, safety, or driving dynamics. The 2015 Focus Electric wasn’t a radical departure from Ford’s lineup—it was a natural evolution, blending the familiar Focus platform with cutting-edge electric propulsion. This blog post dives deep into the features, performance, charging capabilities, interior comfort, safety, and long-term value of Ford’s 2015 electric car, offering a comprehensive review for enthusiasts, potential buyers, and industry watchers alike.

Performance and Powertrain: The Heart of the Focus Electric

Electric Motor and Battery Specifications

At the core of the 2015 Ford Focus Electric is a 107-kilowatt (143 horsepower) AC synchronous electric motor, powered by a 23 kWh lithium-ion battery pack mounted beneath the floor. This setup delivers a smooth, torque-rich driving experience, generating 184 lb-ft of torque instantly—a hallmark of electric vehicles. Unlike internal combustion engines that need to rev to reach peak torque, the Focus Electric provides full power from a standstill, resulting in brisk acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 9.7 seconds. While this isn’t Tesla-level speed, it’s more than adequate for city driving and highway merging.

The battery pack, supplied by LG Chem, is liquid-cooled and designed for longevity. Ford claimed a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty on the battery system, a reassuring commitment for early EV adopters concerned about degradation. The pack is strategically placed to lower the car’s center of gravity, improving handling and stability. This design also maximizes interior space—a critical factor for a compact hatchback.

Regenerative Braking and Driving Modes

One of the most innovative features of the 2015 Focus Electric is its advanced regenerative braking system. Unlike traditional brakes that convert kinetic energy into heat, the Focus Electric recaptures energy during deceleration and feeds it back into the battery. Drivers can choose between two modes:

• Low Regen Mode: Offers a driving experience similar to a conventional car, with minimal deceleration when lifting off the accelerator.
• High Regen Mode: Enables “one-pedal driving,” where lifting off the accelerator causes significant deceleration, allowing the driver to control speed using only the accelerator pedal in stop-and-go traffic.

This feature not only increases efficiency but also reduces wear on the mechanical brakes. For example, during a week-long test drive in downtown Chicago, a reviewer reported using the physical brakes only twice in heavy traffic—once for a sudden red light and once for a pedestrian crossing—thanks to the high regen mode.

Top Speed, Range, and Efficiency

The 2015 Focus Electric has a top speed of 84 mph, which is electronically limited to preserve battery life. While this might seem low compared to gas-powered cars, it aligns with the vehicle’s urban-focused design. Its EPA-estimated range is 76 miles on a full charge, placing it slightly behind the 2015 Nissan Leaf (84 miles) but ahead of the Chevrolet Spark EV (82 miles, but smaller interior).

Efficiency-wise, the Focus Electric achieves 110 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) combined, with 105 MPGe in the city and 115 MPGe on the highway. To put this in perspective, driving 76 miles on electricity costs approximately $2.50 at $0.13 per kWh—a fraction of the $8–$10 it would cost in a 28 mpg gas car. For a daily commuter driving 30 miles round-trip, the Focus Electric could save over $1,200 annually on fuel.

Charging Infrastructure and Practicality

Charging Options and Times

One of the biggest hurdles for EV adoption in 2015 was charging infrastructure. Ford addressed this by equipping the Focus Electric with Level 1 and Level 2 charging capabilities, with an optional DC fast charging port (CHAdeMO standard). Here’s how the charging options break down:

• Level 1 (120V): Uses a standard household outlet. A full charge takes 20–24 hours. Ideal for overnight charging at home.
• Level 2 (240V): Requires a dedicated charging station (e.g., Ford’s Charge Station Pro). A full charge takes 3.5–4 hours. Most owners installed these in garages or driveways.
• DC Fast Charging (480V): Available as an option. Can charge the battery to 80% in 30 minutes. Found at select public stations, primarily in urban areas.

For example, a driver in Seattle who installed a Level 2 charger at home could wake up every morning with a full battery. Meanwhile, a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles (approx. 380 miles) would require three fast-charging stops—a manageable but not seamless experience compared to today’s EVs.

Smart Charging and Remote Features

The Focus Electric introduced Ford’s SYNC with MyFord Touch, a 8-inch touchscreen system with voice control. It included EV-specific features like:

• Charge scheduling: Set charging to begin during off-peak hours (e.g., midnight) to save on electricity costs.
• Remote climate control: Pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin while the car is plugged in, using grid power instead of battery.
• Charge station locator: Navigate to the nearest charging station using real-time data.

These features were groundbreaking in 2015. A reviewer in Boston noted that using pre-conditioning in winter reduced battery drain by 15% during the first 10 miles of driving—a significant improvement in cold weather.

Home Charging Installation Tips

For potential buyers, installing a Level 2 charger at home is highly recommended. Here are practical tips:

• Consult an electrician: Most homes require a 50-amp circuit. Costs range from $500–$1,500, but federal and state incentives (e.g., the 30% federal tax credit) can offset 50% or more.
• Choose a Wi-Fi-enabled charger: Allows monitoring via smartphone apps (e.g., ChargePoint, FordPass).
• Use a dedicated circuit: Avoid overloading the home’s electrical system.

Ford partnered with companies like ChargePoint to offer discounted home chargers with vehicle purchase, simplifying the transition to EV ownership.

Interior, Technology, and Comfort

Cabin Design and Materials

The 2015 Focus Electric shares its platform with the gasoline-powered Focus but includes several EV-specific upgrades. The interior features eco-friendly materials, including:

• Recycled fabric seats: Made from 22 plastic bottles per seat.
• Recycled aluminum trim: Reduces weight and environmental impact.
• Sound-deadening materials: Enhanced to mask the electric motor’s whine and road noise.

Despite its compact size, the Focus Electric offers 90.7 cubic feet of passenger volume—competitive with the Leaf (92.4 cu ft). The rear seats are spacious for a hatchback, though taller passengers may find legroom tight. Trunk space is 14.5 cubic feet, expandable to 43.9 with seats folded—ideal for grocery runs or weekend getaways.

Technology and Infotainment

The SYNC with MyFord Touch system is the highlight of the tech suite. Key features include:

• 8-inch touchscreen: Intuitive interface with pinch-to-zoom maps.
• Voice-activated navigation: Say “Find charging stations” or “Call home” without taking eyes off the road.
• Smartphone integration: Compatible with Apple CarPlay (via update) and Android Auto (later models).
• Energy flow monitor: Real-time display of power usage, regen, and battery status.

However, early versions of SYNC had a learning curve. A reviewer in Denver noted that voice commands occasionally misinterpreted commands, but firmware updates improved reliability by mid-2015.

Comfort and Noise Levels

Electric vehicles are inherently quiet, and the Focus Electric is no exception. At speeds below 40 mph, the cabin is near-silent. Above 50 mph, road and wind noise increase but remain lower than in gas-powered cars. Ford added acoustic windshield glass and additional insulation to further reduce noise. For long drives, the heated front seats and climate control (which pre-conditions the cabin while charging) enhance comfort. A family in Portland reported zero complaints during a 200-mile weekend trip, citing smooth ride quality and minimal fatigue.

Safety and Reliability

Crash Test Ratings and Safety Features

The 2015 Focus Electric earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Top Safety Pick” from the IIHS. Key safety features include:

• Six airbags: Front, side, and curtain airbags.
• AdvanceTrac stability control: Prevents skidding and loss of control.
• Rearview camera: Standard across all trims.
• Active park assist: Automatically steers into parallel or perpendicular spaces.

The battery pack’s placement in the underbody also improved crash safety by reducing the risk of fire or rupture. In a simulated side-impact test, Ford demonstrated that the battery’s protective casing remained intact, preventing short circuits.

Reliability and Maintenance

Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than gas cars, translating to lower maintenance costs. The Focus Electric requires:

• No oil changes or spark plug replacements.
• Regenerative braking reduces brake pad wear—pads last 80,000+ miles vs. 30,000 in gas cars.
• Annual inspections: Check coolant, battery health, and tire rotation.

According to Ford’s data, the average annual maintenance cost is $450—30% lower than the segment average. A survey of 2015 owners found that 92% reported no major mechanical issues after 50,000 miles. The most common complaint was slow charging at public Level 2 stations, often due to outdated equipment.

Warranty and Battery Degradation

Ford’s warranty package includes:

• 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
• 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
• 8-year/100,000-mile battery and electric components warranty (extended to 10-year/150,000 miles in some states).

Battery degradation averages 1–2% per year. A 2015 Focus Electric with 76,000 miles would retain approximately 70–74 miles of range—still viable for daily commutes. Ford also offered a battery replacement program at $4,000–$6,000 (before incentives), though few owners needed it.

Pricing, Value, and Market Position

MSRP and Incentives

The 2015 Focus Electric had a starting MSRP of $29,170 (before incentives). After the $7,500 federal tax credit, the effective price dropped to $21,670. Additional state incentives (e.g., California’s $2,500 rebate) could reduce the cost to $19,170—making it competitive with the Nissan Leaf ($21,510 after incentives).

Trim levels included:

• Base model: Included SYNC, 17-inch alloy wheels, and keyless entry.
• Premium package: Added leather seats, navigation, and DC fast charging.

Resale Value and Depreciation

Like most EVs, the Focus Electric depreciated rapidly in the first 3 years (approx. 50% loss). By 2020, a 2015 model with 50,000 miles sold for $8,000–$10,000 on the used market. However, rising EV demand and fuel prices have stabilized prices in recent years. As of 2023, well-maintained examples sell for $10,000–$12,000, offering excellent value for budget-conscious buyers.

Data Table: 2015 Ford Focus Electric vs. Competitors

Model	MSRP (Before Incentives)	EPA Range (Miles)	0-60 mph (Sec)	MPGe (City/Hwy/Comb)	Fast Charging
2015 Ford Focus Electric	$29,170	76	9.7	105/115/110	Yes (Optional)
2015 Nissan Leaf	$29,010	84	10.2	126/101/114	Yes
2015 Chevrolet Spark EV	$26,685	82	7.2	128/109/119	Yes

This table highlights the Focus Electric’s competitive positioning: it balances range, price, and features better than the Spark EV (smaller interior) and matches the Leaf in practicality while offering superior handling.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation and Practicality

The 2015 Ford Focus Electric may not have revolutionized the EV market like Tesla’s Model S, but it achieved something equally important: democratizing electric driving. By combining Ford’s century-old reputation for reliability with cutting-edge electric technology, the Focus Electric proved that EVs could be affordable, practical, and enjoyable for everyday drivers. Its 76-mile range, advanced regen braking, and SYNC infotainment system set a benchmark for compact EVs—one that influenced later models like the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning.

For today’s buyers, the 2015 Focus Electric remains a smart used car choice. With low maintenance costs, strong safety ratings, and a growing network of charging stations, it’s ideal for urban commuters, eco-conscious families, or anyone seeking a reliable entry into electric mobility. While newer EVs offer longer ranges and faster charging, the Focus Electric’s legacy endures: it wasn’t just a car—it was a statement that Ford was ready for the future. Whether you’re considering a used purchase or simply curious about EV history, the 2015 Focus Electric is a testament to Ford’s vision: innovation that works for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Ford 2015 electric car models were available?

Ford offered the 2015 Focus Electric as its sole fully electric vehicle, featuring a 143-mile range and 143 horsepower. This compact hatchback was Ford’s primary entry in the 2015 electric cars market.

How does the 2015 Ford Focus Electric perform compared to other EVs?

The 2015 Focus Electric delivers smooth acceleration with its 107-kW electric motor, though its 143-mile range lags behind rivals like the Nissan Leaf. Its real-world performance excels in city driving with instant torque and quiet operation.

What are the charging options for Ford 2015 electric cars?

The 2015 Focus Electric supports Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging, taking 18-20 hours and 3-4 hours respectively for a full charge. DC fast charging isn’t available, which was common among 2015 electric cars.

Does the Ford 2015 Focus Electric have regenerative braking?

Yes, it features aggressive regenerative braking that enables “one-pedal driving” in city conditions. This system helps recover energy while providing strong deceleration when lifting off the accelerator.

What tech features do Ford 2015 electric cars include?

The Focus Electric comes standard with SYNC 3 infotainment, navigation, and Ford’s MyKey system. Its 8-inch touchscreen includes EV-specific displays for energy monitoring and charging station locations.

How safe are Ford 2015 electric cars?

The 2015 Focus Electric earned a 5-star NHTSA overall safety rating, with standard features like 7 airbags and AdvanceTrac stability control. Its lithium-ion battery pack is protected by a reinforced steel cage for collision safety.