Ford Focus Electric A Top Contender in Electric Cars

The Ford Focus Electric stands out as a top contender in the electric car market, offering a reliable 115-mile range and smooth, quiet performance perfect for daily commutes. With fast-charging capability, a tech-savvy interior, and competitive pricing, it delivers exceptional value without sacrificing comfort or efficiency.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable pricing: Competitive cost makes it a smart EV entry.
• Efficient range: 115-mile range suits daily commutes effortlessly.
• Fast charging: 80% charge in 30 minutes with DC fast charging.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin and cargo space enhance practicality.
• Eco-friendly materials: Sustainable interior choices reduce environmental impact.
• Advanced tech: SYNC 3 system offers seamless smartphone integration.

The Rise of the Electric Revolution: Introducing the Ford Focus Electric

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s here, and it’s reshaping how we drive. As the world pivots toward sustainability, reducing carbon emissions, and embracing cleaner energy, electric cars have emerged as a practical, eco-friendly alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Among the pioneers in this transition is Ford, a brand synonymous with American innovation and automotive excellence. With decades of engineering expertise, Ford has entered the EV arena with a bold statement: the Ford Focus Electric.

The Ford Focus Electric isn’t just another entry in the growing list of electric cars; it’s a refined, practical, and thoughtfully designed vehicle that bridges the gap between affordability and advanced technology. Launched in 2011 and significantly updated over the years, the Focus Electric was one of the first mass-market EVs from a legacy automaker. While newer models like the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning have since taken the spotlight, the Focus Electric remains a top contender for urban commuters, eco-conscious drivers, and anyone seeking a reliable, no-compromise electric car. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why the Ford Focus Electric continues to stand out in a crowded EV market, from its performance and efficiency to its real-world usability and long-term value.

Design and Exterior: A Modern, Aerodynamic Statement

The Ford Focus Electric doesn’t scream “electric” with flashy, futuristic styling. Instead, it embraces a subtle, sophisticated design language that appeals to drivers who appreciate understated elegance. Based on the third-generation Focus platform, the electric variant maintains the same sleek, European-inspired silhouette as its gasoline counterpart—but with key modifications to enhance aerodynamics and efficiency.

Exterior Features That Enhance Efficiency

One of the standout aspects of the Focus Electric’s design is its focus on aerodynamics. Ford engineers optimized the car’s shape to reduce drag, which directly impacts energy consumption and range. Key features include:

• Active grille shutters that open and close automatically to regulate engine bay temperature and reduce wind resistance when cooling isn’t needed.
• Lowered ride height and unique front and rear bumpers designed to smooth airflow around the car.
• Special low-drag alloy wheels that reduce turbulence and improve efficiency.
• LED daytime running lights and taillights that consume less power than traditional bulbs.

These design choices aren’t just cosmetic—they’re functional. For example, the active grille shutters can improve aerodynamic efficiency by up to 6%, which translates into more miles per charge, especially during highway driving.

Subtle Electric Cues

While the Focus Electric shares most of its body with the standard Focus, it includes subtle visual cues to distinguish it as an EV:

• “ELECTRIC” badging on the rear liftgate and fenders.
• Blue accent trim around the headlights and grille—a signature Ford EV color.
• Charging port door integrated into the front left fender, easily accessible and illuminated for nighttime use.

This minimalist approach ensures the car doesn’t alienate traditional drivers. Unlike some EVs that go for a radical, “otherworldly” look, the Focus Electric feels like a natural evolution of a familiar, trusted compact car—making it an ideal choice for first-time EV buyers.

Color and Trim Options

Ford offered the Focus Electric in a range of contemporary colors, including:

• Oxford White
• Ruby Red Metallic
• Steel Blue
• Ingot Silver
• Shadow Black

The interior features a clean, modern layout with high-quality materials. While not as luxurious as premium EVs, the cabin feels well-appointed for its class, with soft-touch surfaces, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and available heated seats.

Performance and Powertrain: Smooth, Silent, and Efficient

When it comes to electric vehicles, performance isn’t just about speed—it’s about how smoothly and efficiently the car delivers power. The Ford Focus Electric excels in this department, offering a driving experience that’s both refined and responsive.

Electric Motor and Battery Specifications

The Focus Electric is powered by a 107-kW (143 horsepower) electric motor and a 33.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This setup delivers:

• 184 lb-ft of torque—available instantly, giving the car brisk acceleration off the line.
• 0-60 mph in approximately 9.5 seconds, which is competitive for a compact EV, especially in its price range.
• Top speed of 84 mph, ideal for city and suburban driving, though slightly lower than some rivals.

Unlike internal combustion engines, electric motors deliver maximum torque from a standstill. This means the Focus Electric feels zippy in city traffic, with smooth, linear acceleration that makes merging and passing effortless.

Real-World Driving Experience

Driving the Focus Electric is a quiet, serene experience. With no engine noise and minimal wind and road noise (thanks to acoustic glass and sound-dampening materials), the cabin remains peaceful—ideal for long commutes or urban driving.

Regenerative braking is a standout feature. The Focus Electric uses a one-pedal driving mode (called “B mode”), which increases regenerative braking when you lift off the accelerator. This allows you to slow the car significantly without touching the brake pedal, recapturing energy and extending range. For example:

• In stop-and-go city traffic, drivers can use B mode to coast and slow down naturally, reducing brake wear and increasing efficiency by up to 10%.
• On downhill stretches, the system captures kinetic energy, adding a few extra miles to your range.

Tip: To maximize efficiency, use B mode in urban areas and switch to standard mode on open highways where coasting is more effective.

Range and Efficiency

The Focus Electric offers an EPA-estimated 115 miles of range on a full charge—a solid number for a compact EV, especially when it was introduced. While newer EVs now offer 250+ miles, 115 miles is more than sufficient for:

• The average U.S. daily commute (30 miles round trip).
• Weekend errands, school runs, and local shopping trips.
• Charging at work or public stations during the day.

Its 105 MPGe (combined) rating means it’s highly efficient, using only about 32 kWh of electricity per 100 miles. For context, that’s roughly the same energy as a household refrigerator running for 24 hours.

Charging Options and Times

The Focus Electric supports both Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging:

• Level 1 (standard household outlet): ~20 hours for a full charge.
• Level 2 (240V home charger): ~4-5 hours for a full charge.
• DC Fast Charging (optional): Not available on all trims, but some later models can add 40 miles of range in 30 minutes.

Tip: Install a Level 2 charger at home. The $500–$1,000 investment pays for itself in convenience and time savings, especially if you charge overnight.

Interior and Technology: Smart, Connected, and Driver-Focused

The Ford Focus Electric’s interior is where technology and practicality converge. Ford didn’t just swap the engine for a battery—it reimagined the driver experience with smart features, intuitive controls, and connectivity that enhance daily use.

SYNC 3 Infotainment System

The centerpiece of the cabin is the SYNC 3 infotainment system, which includes:

• 8-inch touchscreen with responsive, high-resolution display.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration (available on later models).
• Voice-activated controls for navigation, music, and climate.
• Bluetooth connectivity with dual-device pairing.

Unlike early EV infotainment systems that felt clunky, SYNC 3 is fast, intuitive, and user-friendly. For example, drivers can use voice commands to set a destination in Google Maps, play a Spotify playlist, or adjust the cabin temperature—all without taking their eyes off the road.

EV-Specific Features and Displays

Ford designed the Focus Electric with EV drivers in mind. The instrument cluster includes a customizable digital display that shows:

• Remaining range (in miles and percentage).
• Energy consumption (kWh/100 miles).
• Regeneration status and battery charge level.
• “Eco Guide” that rates driving efficiency in real time.

The Eco Guide is particularly useful. It provides feedback on acceleration, braking, and coasting, helping drivers adopt more efficient habits. Over time, this can increase real-world range by 5–15%.

Climate Control and Energy Management

Heating and cooling are major energy consumers in EVs. The Focus Electric addresses this with:

• Heat pump system (on later models), which is more efficient than resistive heating.
• Remote climate control via the FordPass app—start heating or cooling while the car is still charging.

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• Preconditioning: Set the cabin temperature before departure to reduce battery drain during the drive.

Example: On a cold winter morning, use the FordPass app to heat the cabin while the car is still plugged in. This preserves battery range for driving, as heating is powered by the grid, not the battery.

Comfort and Practicality

Despite its compact size, the Focus Electric offers a surprisingly spacious interior:

• 103 cubic feet of passenger volume—comfortable for four adults.
• 14 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk, expandable with 60/40 split-folding rear seats.
• Available heated front seats and steering wheel for cold climates.

Tip: Use the cargo area to store charging cables, emergency kits, and shopping bags. The flat floor and wide opening make loading easy.

Safety and Reliability: Built to Protect

Safety is a top priority for any family-oriented vehicle, and the Ford Focus Electric delivers strong credentials. It’s built on the same platform as the gasoline Focus, which has a long history of reliability and crashworthiness.

Advanced Safety Features

The Focus Electric comes equipped with a suite of safety technologies, including:

• AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control for improved handling in slippery conditions.
• Seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag.
• Rearview camera with dynamic guidelines.
• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert.
• Parking sensors front and rear.

These features help prevent accidents and make parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier—especially useful in urban environments.

Crash Test Ratings

The Focus Electric earned high marks from safety organizations:

• 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).
• “Top Safety Pick” from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) in its model years.

The battery pack is encased in a reinforced steel frame and located under the floor, which lowers the center of gravity and improves stability. In the event of a crash, the battery automatically disconnects to prevent electrical hazards.

Reliability and Maintenance

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

• No oil changes or transmission fluid replacements.
• Fewer brake replacements due to regenerative braking.
• Only periodic checks of the battery, cooling system, and software updates.

Ford offers an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty, which covers capacity loss below 70%. Most Focus Electric owners report minimal degradation after 100,000 miles, with batteries retaining 85–90% of original capacity.

Tip: Keep the battery between 20% and 80% charge for daily use to prolong its lifespan. Avoid frequent deep discharges.

Cost, Value, and Ownership: Smart Economics

When evaluating an electric car, it’s not just about the sticker price—it’s about total cost of ownership. The Ford Focus Electric shines in this area, offering strong value for budget-conscious buyers.

Pricing and Incentives

When new, the Focus Electric had a starting MSRP of around $29,000–$32,000, depending on trim and options. However, buyers could take advantage of:

• Federal tax credit of $7,500 (if eligible).
• State and local incentives (e.g., California’s $2,000 rebate).
• HOV lane access in some states (e.g., California, Florida).

Today, used Focus Electric models (2015–2018) are available for $8,000–$15,000 on the used market, making them an excellent entry point into EV ownership.

Operating Costs

Electricity is significantly cheaper than gasoline. On average:

• Cost to fully charge: $3–$5 (depending on local electricity rates).
• Annual fuel cost: ~$500 (vs. $1,200+ for a comparable gas car).
• Maintenance savings: ~$400–$600 per year.

Over 5 years, an owner could save $5,000–$7,000 in fuel and maintenance alone.

Resale Value and Depreciation

Like most early EVs, the Focus Electric experienced higher depreciation than gas models. However, as EV demand grows and battery technology improves, used EVs are holding value better. A well-maintained 2017 Focus Electric with 60,000 miles can still fetch 60–70% of its original value.

Tip: Buy a certified pre-owned (CPO) Focus Electric with a clean history and full service records to maximize reliability and resale value.

Data Table: Ford Focus Electric vs. Competitors (2017 Models)

Model	Range (EPA)	HP	MPGe	Starting Price	Charging Time (Level 2)
Ford Focus Electric	115 miles	143 hp	105 MPGe	$29,170	4.5 hours
Nissan Leaf (SV)	151 miles	147 hp	109 MPGe	$30,680	6.5 hours
Chevy Bolt EV	238 miles	200 hp	119 MPGe	$37,495	9.5 hours
BMW i3 (60Ah)	81 miles	170 hp	117 MPGe	$42,400	4 hours

Note: Prices reflect 2017 MSRP; all figures are EPA estimates.

Conclusion: Why the Ford Focus Electric Remains a Top Contender

The Ford Focus Electric may not be the flashiest or longest-range EV on the market, but it’s a smart, well-rounded choice that delivers where it matters most: efficiency, reliability, and real-world usability. It was one of the first EVs to prove that electric cars don’t have to be niche or impractical—they can be mainstream, affordable, and enjoyable to drive.

For urban commuters, eco-conscious families, and first-time EV buyers, the Focus Electric offers a compelling package. Its 115-mile range is more than enough for daily driving, and its low operating costs make it a financially savvy option. With advanced safety features, intuitive technology, and a comfortable interior, it strikes the perfect balance between innovation and practicality.

While newer EVs offer more range and faster charging, the Focus Electric remains a top contender in the used EV market and a testament to Ford’s early commitment to electrification. As the world continues to embrace electric mobility, the Focus Electric stands as a milestone—a car that helped pave the way for the electric future we’re now building. Whether you’re considering your first EV or adding a reliable second car to your garage, the Ford Focus Electric deserves a spot at the top of your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the Ford Focus Electric on a full charge?

The Ford Focus Electric offers an EPA-estimated range of 115 miles on a full charge, making it ideal for daily commutes and urban driving. This range is competitive among compact electric cars in its class.

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

Using a 240V Level 2 charger, the Ford Focus Electric can fully recharge in about 3.6 hours. With a standard 120V household outlet, charging takes significantly longer, around 20 hours.

Is the Ford Focus Electric eligible for federal tax credits?

Yes, the Ford Focus Electric qualifies for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, depending on your tax liability. Some states may also offer additional incentives for purchasing electric cars.

What features make the Ford Focus Electric stand out among electric cars?

The Ford Focus Electric includes advanced tech like SYNC 3 infotainment, regenerative braking, and a quiet, smooth ride. Its compact size and practical hatchback design also enhance urban usability.

Can the Ford Focus Electric handle highway driving?

Absolutely. The Focus Electric has a top speed of 84 mph and delivers instant torque for confident highway merging. Its range, however, is best suited for shorter highway trips with charging stops.

What is the warranty coverage for the Ford Focus Electric?

The Ford Focus Electric comes with an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty and a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. This coverage ensures peace of mind for electric car owners.