Ford Electric Car 2016 Review Features and Performance Insights

The 2016 Ford electric car lineup delivers impressive efficiency and smooth performance, highlighted by the Focus Electric’s 100 MPGe combined rating and 76-mile range. Quick charging and a refined interior make it a practical, eco-friendly choice for urban drivers seeking reliability without sacrificing comfort.

Key Takeaways

• 2016 Ford EV range: Up to 170 miles on a single charge.
• Fast charging: 80% charge in under 30 minutes with DC fast charging.
• Smooth acceleration: Instant torque delivers responsive, quiet performance.
• Spacious interior: Practical hatchback design maximizes cargo and passenger space.
• Smart tech: SYNC 3 infotainment offers intuitive controls and smartphone integration.
• Regen braking: One-pedal driving enhances efficiency and control.

The Dawn of a New Era: Ford’s 2016 Electric Car Push

In the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive industry, 2016 marked a pivotal year for Ford electric car innovation. As global awareness of climate change grew and consumers demanded more sustainable transportation options, automakers scrambled to position themselves at the forefront of the electric revolution. Ford, an American icon with a century-long legacy of manufacturing excellence, stepped into the spotlight with renewed determination, showcasing its commitment to electrification. The 2016 lineup wasn’t just about introducing new models—it was a bold statement: Ford was ready to compete with Tesla, Chevrolet, and Nissan in the rapidly expanding electric vehicle (EV) market. With the spotlight on efficiency, performance, and affordability, Ford’s electric offerings from that year laid the groundwork for a future powered by clean energy and cutting-edge technology.

The 2016 Ford electric car lineup represented a strategic shift in the company’s vision. No longer content to be seen as a traditional gasoline-powered automaker, Ford began integrating advanced battery systems, intelligent connectivity, and driver-centric features into its EVs. The year 2016 was particularly significant because it coincided with a surge in federal and state incentives for EV buyers, increased public charging infrastructure, and a growing consumer appetite for zero-emission vehicles. Ford responded with a refined approach—balancing practicality, range, and price. Whether you were a daily commuter in a bustling city or a suburban family looking for a greener alternative, the 2016 Ford electric vehicles offered compelling options. This review dives deep into the features, performance, and real-world usability of Ford’s electric cars from that transformative year, offering insights that remain relevant for today’s EV shoppers and automotive enthusiasts alike.

Overview of the 2016 Ford Electric Car Lineup

The 2016 Ford electric car portfolio was anchored by two primary models: the Ford Focus Electric and the Ford Fusion Energi (a plug-in hybrid). While the Fusion Energi offered a transitional solution with its hybrid-electric powertrain, the Focus Electric stood as Ford’s only fully battery-electric vehicle (BEV) available for purchase that year. This distinction is crucial—it highlights Ford’s cautious yet progressive approach to electrification. Rather than launching a full fleet of BEVs, Ford focused on perfecting a single, high-quality electric car while offering a plug-in hybrid alternative for those not ready to fully commit to charging infrastructure or range limitations.

Ford Focus Electric: The Flagship BEV

The Ford Focus Electric was the centerpiece of Ford’s 2016 electric strategy. Built on the same platform as the standard Focus hatchback, the electric version retained the model’s compact size and agile handling while replacing the internal combustion engine with a fully electric drivetrain. The car was designed for urban and suburban drivers who prioritized efficiency, low emissions, and low running costs. With a sleek, aerodynamic body and a modern interior, the Focus Electric appealed to environmentally conscious buyers who didn’t want to sacrifice comfort or style.

One of the key selling points was its EPA-estimated range of 76 miles per charge, which, while modest compared to competitors like the Tesla Model S (208–265 miles) or even the Nissan Leaf (84–107 miles), was sufficient for most daily commutes. For example, a driver traveling 30 miles round-trip to work could go nearly three full days without recharging—assuming no weekend excursions. Ford also emphasized the car’s regenerative braking system, which not only improved energy efficiency but also extended brake pad life by reducing mechanical wear.

Ford Fusion Energi: The Plug-in Hybrid Alternative

For buyers hesitant about full electrification, the Ford Fusion Energi offered a compelling bridge. This mid-size sedan combined a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine with an 88 kW electric motor and a 7.6 kWh lithium-ion battery. The result? An impressive EPA-estimated 19 miles of all-electric range and a total range of 550 miles when both gas and electric systems were engaged. This made the Fusion Energi ideal for drivers who wanted the benefits of electric driving (quiet operation, zero tailpipe emissions in EV mode) without the anxiety of running out of charge on longer trips.

The Fusion Energi also featured EV Auto mode, which automatically switched between electric and hybrid power based on driving conditions, speed, and battery level. For instance, the car would default to electric power in stop-and-go city traffic, switching to gas on highways or when the battery was depleted. This intelligent system maximized efficiency and minimized fuel consumption. Additionally, the Energi model included Ford’s SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a dual-screen instrument cluster that provided real-time feedback on energy usage, efficiency, and driving habits—helping users adopt more eco-friendly driving patterns.

Availability, Trim Levels, and Pricing

In 2016, the Ford Focus Electric was available in a single well-equipped trim, priced at around $29,170 before federal and state incentives. This included features like heated front seats, a 10-speaker Sony audio system, and SYNC 3 infotainment with voice recognition. The Fusion Energi came in three trims: SE, SEL, and Platinum, with base prices ranging from $33,900 to $41,900. After the $7,500 federal tax credit and additional state rebates (e.g., California’s $2,500 Clean Vehicle Rebate), effective prices dropped significantly—making both models more accessible.

Tip: When purchasing a 2016 Ford electric car today (as a used vehicle), always verify the battery health using an OBD2 scanner or professional diagnostic tool. Battery degradation over time can reduce range, especially in older EVs. Look for models with low mileage and a history of regular charging—avoid vehicles that were frequently deep-discharged or left uncharged for extended periods.

Performance and Driving Experience

One of the most exciting aspects of the 2016 Ford electric car lineup was how it translated electric power into a satisfying driving experience. Unlike traditional gasoline engines, electric motors deliver instant torque, resulting in smooth, rapid acceleration—a hallmark of BEVs. The Focus Electric, in particular, stood out for its responsiveness and quiet operation.

Acceleration and Handling

The Focus Electric was powered by a 143-horsepower (107 kW) permanent magnet electric motor, producing 184 lb-ft of torque. While not a performance beast like the Tesla Model S, it offered brisk acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in about 9.8 seconds—comparable to the gasoline-powered Focus but with a more linear power delivery. The electric motor’s instant torque meant that the car felt lively in city driving, easily darting through traffic or merging onto highways.

Handling was another strong suit. The Focus Electric’s battery pack was mounted low in the chassis, lowering the car’s center of gravity and improving stability during cornering. This gave it a planted, sporty feel—especially when compared to other compact EVs of the time. The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and potholes with ease, making it ideal for urban environments. However, the steering felt slightly numb compared to sportier rivals, which some drivers noted as a minor drawback.

Regenerative Braking and Driving Modes

Ford equipped the Focus Electric with a single-level regenerative braking system, which recaptured energy during deceleration. While not as aggressive as the “one-pedal driving” systems found in later EVs (e.g., Nissan Leaf’s e-Pedal), it still allowed drivers to slow the car significantly without touching the brake pedal—especially useful in stop-and-go traffic.

The car also offered two driving modes: Normal and Low. In Normal mode, the car behaved like a standard EV with balanced power delivery. In Low mode, regenerative braking was increased, and throttle response was softened, maximizing range and minimizing energy waste. For example, a driver using Low mode on a downhill stretch could recover more energy than in Normal mode, effectively “coasting” with minimal battery drain.

Pro Tip: Use Low mode during city driving or in traffic-heavy areas to extend range. Reserve Normal mode for highway driving, where higher speeds require more consistent power output. This simple adjustment can add 5–10 miles of range on a typical daily commute.

Real-World Range and Charging Behavior

While the Focus Electric’s 76-mile EPA range was solid on paper, real-world performance varied. In moderate temperatures (60–75°F), drivers consistently achieved 70–75 miles. However, in cold weather (<32°F), range dropped to 50–60 miles due to increased energy demands for cabin heating and battery warming. Similarly, using the AC in summer could reduce range by 10–15%.

Charging was straightforward but slow by today’s standards. The car came with a Level 1 (120V) charger that provided about 4 miles of range per hour—requiring 20+ hours for a full charge. A Level 2 (240V) home charger reduced this to about 3.5 hours, which was more practical for overnight charging. Public DC fast charging was not available on the 2016 Focus Electric, a limitation compared to competitors like the Chevrolet Spark EV.

Example: A driver who charged at home using a Level 2 charger could start each morning with a full battery, covering their 30-mile daily commute with ease. For longer trips, planning was essential—using apps like PlugShare to locate Level 2 stations along the route.

Interior, Technology, and Comfort

The 2016 Ford electric car interior was designed to blend modern technology with everyday usability. Both the Focus Electric and Fusion Energi featured high-quality materials, intuitive controls, and a host of smart features aimed at enhancing the driving experience.

SYNC 3 Infotainment System

The standout tech feature was SYNC 3, Ford’s next-generation infotainment platform. Replacing the clunky SYNC 2 system, SYNC 3 offered a faster processor, a responsive 8-inch touchscreen, and improved voice recognition. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (via a software update in late 2016), allowing seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and messaging.

For EV-specific needs, SYNC 3 included a Charge Point Locator and Energy Usage Monitor. The locator used real-time data to find nearby charging stations, while the energy monitor displayed real-time and historical energy consumption—helping drivers track efficiency and plan charging stops.

SmartGauge with EcoGuide (Fusion Energi)

The Fusion Energi featured a unique dual-screen instrument cluster called SmartGauge with EcoGuide. The left screen displayed traditional metrics (speed, fuel level, battery charge), while the right screen showed EV-specific data: energy flow, efficiency score, and regenerative braking activity. The system even provided “leaves” as a visual reward for efficient driving—encouraging users to accelerate smoothly and coast when possible.

Tip: Use the SmartGauge to monitor your “efficiency score” over time. Consistently scoring above 80% indicates eco-conscious driving habits, which can extend battery life and reduce energy costs.

Comfort and Space

Both models offered a comfortable ride, but with trade-offs. The Focus Electric had a compact cabin with limited rear legroom, making it better suited for solo drivers or couples. The Fusion Energi, as a mid-size sedan, provided more space—especially in the rear seats—and a larger trunk (12.0 cubic feet vs. 12.2 cubic feet in the gas model, slightly reduced due to battery placement).

Standard features across both models included heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and ambient lighting. The Focus Electric also offered optional leather upholstery and a power moonroof, adding a touch of luxury to the eco-friendly package.

Charging Infrastructure and Practicality

One of the biggest challenges for 2016 EV owners was charging infrastructure. While public stations were growing, they were still sparse compared to today’s network. Ford addressed this with a combination of home charging solutions and strategic partnerships.

Home Charging Solutions

Ford partnered with ChargePoint to offer discounted home charging stations. Buyers could purchase a 240V Level 2 charger for around $600–$800, with installation costs averaging $500–$1,200 depending on electrical upgrades. Ford also provided a free 240V charger with the purchase of a Focus Electric in select markets, significantly reducing the barrier to entry.

Tip: Always have a licensed electrician assess your home’s electrical panel before installing a Level 2 charger. Older homes may require panel upgrades to support the additional load.

Public Charging Network

Ford integrated the FordPass app (launched in 2016) to help drivers locate and pay for public charging. The app connected to networks like ChargePoint, EVgo, and Blink, providing real-time availability, pricing, and compatibility information. While not as comprehensive as Tesla’s Supercharger network, it offered reliable access to thousands of stations across the U.S.

Charging Time Comparison

Charging Method	Voltage/Amperage	Time for Full Charge (Focus Electric)	Range per Hour
Level 1 (Standard Outlet)	120V / 15A	20–22 hours	3–4 miles
Level 2 (Home Charger)	240V / 30A	3.5–4 hours	18–20 miles
Public Level 2 Station	240V / 30–70A	3–4 hours	15–25 miles

This table illustrates the importance of investing in a Level 2 charger for daily use. While Level 1 is feasible for very low-mileage drivers, Level 2 is essential for practicality and convenience.

Environmental Impact and Long-Term Value

The 2016 Ford electric car lineup was designed with sustainability in mind. From reduced tailpipe emissions to lower lifecycle energy use, these vehicles offered tangible environmental benefits.

Emissions and Energy Efficiency

The Focus Electric produced zero tailpipe emissions, making it ideal for reducing urban air pollution. According to the EPA, it achieved an equivalent fuel economy of 105 MPGe city / 91 MPGe highway—far exceeding any gasoline-powered compact car. The Fusion Energi achieved 88 MPGe in electric mode and 38 MPG in hybrid mode.

When charged with renewable energy (e.g., solar or wind), the carbon footprint of these EVs dropped dramatically. Even when charged from the U.S. grid (which includes coal and natural gas), EVs still produced fewer emissions over their lifetime than gasoline cars.

Long-Term Ownership and Resale Value

While 2016 EVs have lower resale value today due to rapid advancements in battery tech, the Focus Electric and Fusion Energi have held up reasonably well. As of 2024, a well-maintained 2016 Focus Electric can sell for $8,000–$12,000, depending on condition and mileage. Key factors affecting value include battery health, service history, and availability of Level 2 charging.

Maintenance costs are significantly lower than gasoline cars. With no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems, EVs require only periodic checks of brakes, tires, and software updates. Ford’s 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty (still valid for many 2016 models) adds peace of mind for long-term owners.

Conclusion: A Foundation for the Future

The 2016 Ford electric car lineup may not have broken range records or redefined performance, but it played a crucial role in Ford’s journey toward electrification. The Focus Electric proved that a practical, affordable BEV could deliver a satisfying driving experience, while the Fusion Energi showed how plug-in hybrids could ease the transition for mainstream buyers. With smart technology, thoughtful design, and a focus on real-world usability, these vehicles laid the foundation for Ford’s later successes—including the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning.

For today’s used EV buyer, the 2016 Ford electric cars offer a compelling entry point into the world of zero-emission driving. They’re reliable, efficient, and packed with features that remain relevant. Whether you’re looking for a city commuter, a family sedan, or a stepping stone to full electrification, these models demonstrate Ford’s enduring commitment to innovation and sustainability. As the EV landscape continues to evolve, the 2016 Ford electric car remains a testament to what’s possible when legacy automakers embrace the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Ford Electric Car 2016?

The 2016 Ford Electric Car lineup, including the Ford Focus Electric, offers features like a 76-mile range per charge, regenerative braking, and the SYNC 3 infotainment system. It also includes standard safety tech like a rearview camera and Ford’s MyKey system.

How does the 2016 Ford Focus Electric perform in terms of range and charging?

The 2016 Ford Focus Electric delivers an EPA-estimated 76 miles of range on a full charge. Charging takes about 4 hours with a 240V Level 2 charger, making it practical for daily commutes.

Is the Ford Electric Car 2016 a good choice for city driving?

Yes, the 2016 Ford Focus Electric excels in city driving due to its compact size, instant torque, and quiet operation. Its 76-mile range is sufficient for most urban commutes and errands.

What tech features come standard in the 2016 Ford Electric Car?

The 2016 Ford Focus Electric includes SYNC 3 with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 9-speaker Sony audio system. Remote climate control via the FordPass app is also available.

How does the 2016 Ford Electric compare to other EVs in its class?

The 2016 Ford Focus Electric competes with the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Spark EV but lags slightly in range (76 miles vs. 84–85 miles). However, it stands out with superior ride comfort and upscale interior materials.

What is the warranty coverage for the Ford Electric Car 2016?

The 2016 Ford Focus Electric comes with an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery and electric components, alongside a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. This provides long-term peace of mind for owners.