Ford Think Electric Car Review Performance and Range Tested

The Ford Think electric car delivers impressive real-world performance with a smooth, responsive drive and a tested range of up to 110 miles on a single charge, making it a practical choice for urban commuters. Acceleration and regenerative braking stand out, offering a dynamic yet efficient driving experience, though its compact size and limited top speed prioritize city agility over highway dominance.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Achieves up to 100 miles on a single charge.
• Quick acceleration: 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds for city driving.
• Efficient charging: Fully recharges in 6-8 hours with Level 2 charger.
• Compact design: Perfect for urban commutes and tight parking spaces.
• Eco-friendly interior: Uses sustainable materials to reduce environmental impact.
• Smart tech integration: Features FordPass Connect for remote monitoring.

The Ford Think Electric Car: A Bold Step Toward Sustainable Mobility

In an era defined by climate urgency and rapid technological advancement, the automotive industry is undergoing one of its most transformative periods. Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a niche curiosity—they’re the future of transportation. Among the legacy automakers making serious inroads into the EV market, Ford stands out not just for its century-long reputation for innovation, but for its aggressive push toward electrification. One of its most intriguing—and often misunderstood—ventures is the Ford Think Electric Car, a vehicle that, despite a complex history, offers valuable insights into Ford’s early foray into sustainable mobility.

The Ford Think (originally branded as the Think City) was first introduced in the late 1990s, re-emerged in the mid-2000s, and saw limited production in the early 2010s. While it never achieved the mainstream success of models like the Mustang Mach-E or F-150 Lightning, the Think represents a critical chapter in Ford’s electrification journey. It was a bold experiment—a compact, city-focused EV designed for urban commuters, short-range efficiency, and environmental responsibility. This Ford Think Electric Car review dives deep into its performance, range, design, real-world usability, and how it compares to modern EVs. Whether you’re a vintage EV enthusiast, a Ford history buff, or a sustainability-minded driver curious about early electric mobility, this comprehensive analysis will give you a clear picture of what the Ford Think delivered—and where it fell short.

Design and Build: Compact, Practical, and Purpose-Built

Exterior and Dimensions: A City-Centric Profile

The Ford Think was conceived as a city car—a vehicle optimized for dense urban environments where space, maneuverability, and efficiency are paramount. Measuring just 3.2 meters (10.5 feet) in length and 1.7 meters (5.6 feet) in width, the Think is significantly smaller than most modern EVs. Its boxy, utilitarian design prioritizes interior space over aerodynamic sleekness, with a high roofline, short overhangs, and large glass areas for visibility. This makes it ideal for zipping through traffic, fitting into tight parking spots, and navigating narrow streets.

The original 1999 model had a futuristic, almost sci-fi aesthetic with smooth curves and a low drag coefficient (Cd of 0.32), but the 2008–2011 production version adopted a more angular, practical look with plastic body panels to reduce weight and repair costs. The front end features a minimalist grille (a nod to its electric nature), halogen headlights, and a compact bumper. The rear is dominated by a large liftgate, making cargo access easy.

Interior and Materials: Functional, Not Luxurious

Step inside the Ford Think, and you’re greeted with a cabin that prioritizes function over form. The dashboard is simple, with analog gauges (including a speedometer, battery charge indicator, and odometer) and minimal digital displays. The seats are cloth-covered and manually adjusted, offering decent comfort for short trips but lacking the ergonomic support of modern EVs. Rear seating is tight—two adults can fit, but legroom is limited. The steering wheel is small and upright, giving the car a go-kart-like feel.

Materials are predominantly hard plastics and recycled textiles, reflecting Ford’s commitment to sustainability. While not luxurious, the interior is durable and easy to clean—a plus for fleet operators and city drivers. The cargo area offers 220 liters (7.8 cubic feet) of space, expandable to 550 liters (19.4 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded. For context, that’s enough for a week’s worth of groceries or a medium-sized suitcase.

Key Design Takeaways

• Size matters: The Think’s compact dimensions make it perfect for urban driving but less ideal for highway commutes or family use.
• Visibility: Large windows and a high seating position provide excellent visibility, reducing blind spots.
• Weight: At around 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs), the Think is lightweight, contributing to its efficiency.
• Durability: Plastic body panels resist dings and scratches, ideal for city parking.

Tip: If you’re considering the Think for urban use, test the turning radius—its 8.5-meter (27.9-foot) turning circle makes U-turns and parking effortless.

Performance: Acceleration, Handling, and Real-World Driving Experience

Motor and Powertrain: Simplicity and Efficiency

The Ford Think is powered by a 40 kW (54 hp) electric motor driving the front wheels. While that may sound underpowered by today’s standards (the Mach-E delivers up to 480 hp), it’s perfectly suited for city driving. The motor produces 100 lb-ft (135 Nm) of torque instantly—a hallmark of electric propulsion—giving the Think brisk acceleration from a standstill. It can go from 0 to 30 mph in under 5 seconds, which is excellent for stop-and-go traffic. However, 0 to 60 mph takes about 18 seconds, and top speed is electronically limited to 75 mph (120 km/h).

The motor is paired with a single-speed transmission, eliminating gear shifts and providing a smooth, linear driving experience. Regenerative braking is standard, capturing energy during deceleration to extend range. While not as sophisticated as modern EVs with multi-level regen, it’s effective and helps reduce wear on the mechanical brakes.

Handling and Ride Quality: Nimble but Firm

The Think rides on a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear setup. The chassis is stiff, with minimal body roll during cornering. Combined with its low center of gravity (thanks to the underfloor battery), the Think handles corners with surprising agility. However, the ride quality is firm—especially on rough roads—due to the lightweight construction and minimal sound insulation. Potholes and speed bumps are felt sharply, a trade-off for responsiveness.

Steering is light and direct, with good feedback. The car feels planted at city speeds but can feel twitchy at highway speeds due to its short wheelbase. This is not a vehicle designed for long-distance cruising, but for nimble urban navigation.

Real-World Performance: A Day in the Life

Imagine a typical day for a Think driver in a city like Portland or Seattle:

• Morning commute: 8-mile drive to work. The Think accelerates quickly from stoplights, easily keeping pace with traffic. Regenerative braking helps recharge the battery during frequent stops.
• Lunchtime errands: Two 3-mile trips to pick up lunch and drop off dry cleaning. The compact size makes parking a breeze.
• Evening drive: 6-mile trip to a friend’s house. The car handles hills well (thanks to instant torque), but the cabin is noisy at 50+ mph due to tire and wind noise.

Tip: Use the “Eco” mode (if available) to limit acceleration and optimize energy use. This can add 5–10% to your range in stop-and-go traffic.

Range and Battery: How Far Can the Ford Think Go?

Battery Specifications and Charging Options

The Ford Think is equipped with a 13.8 kWh sodium-nickel chloride (Zebra) battery pack in most production models. This is a departure from the lithium-ion batteries used in modern EVs, offering advantages and drawbacks:

• Pros: Zebra batteries are more tolerant of extreme temperatures, have a longer lifespan (up to 15 years), and are less prone to thermal runaway (fire risk).
• Cons: They are heavier, require a warm-up period in cold weather, and have lower energy density than lithium-ion.

The battery is located under the floor, lowering the center of gravity and protecting it from damage. It takes about 6–8 hours to charge from empty to full using a standard 120V Level 1 charger (the included cord). With a 240V Level 2 charger (common in workplaces and public stations), charging time drops to 3–4 hours. There’s no DC fast charging capability—a major limitation compared to modern EVs.

Real-World Range: City vs. Highway

Ford officially rated the Think at 50–62 miles (80–100 km) per charge, but real-world results vary significantly based on driving conditions:

• City driving (ideal): 55–60 miles. Frequent stops and low speeds maximize regenerative braking and efficiency.
• Mixed driving: 40–45 miles. Highway speeds (50+ mph) drastically reduce range due to increased aerodynamic drag.
• Highway driving (worst-case): 30–35 miles. Sustained speeds above 60 mph can cut range by up to 50%.

Temperature also plays a role. In cold weather (below 32°F/0°C), the Zebra battery requires 15–30 minutes to warm up before it delivers full power and range. Preconditioning the cabin while plugged in can help preserve range.

Range Comparison Table

Driving Condition	Average Speed	Real-World Range	Efficiency (Wh/mile)
City (stop-and-go)	20–30 mph	58 miles	238 Wh/mile
Mixed (urban + highway)	40–50 mph	43 miles	321 Wh/mile
Highway (sustained)	60+ mph	32 miles	431 Wh/mile
Cold Weather (32°F, no preconditioning)	30 mph	40 miles	345 Wh/mile

Tip: To maximize range, drive below 45 mph, use regenerative braking, and avoid rapid acceleration. Precondition the battery in cold weather by plugging in for 30 minutes before driving.

Charging Infrastructure and Practicality: What You Need to Know

Home Charging: The Primary Option

For most Think owners, home charging is the most practical solution. The car comes with a standard 120V charging cord that plugs into any household outlet. While convenient, Level 1 charging is slow—adding about 4–5 miles of range per hour. For a full charge, you’ll need to plug in overnight.

Upgrading to a 240V Level 2 charger (240V, 30–40A) cuts charging time in half. Installation typically costs $500–$1,200, including labor and permits. Many utility companies offer rebates or incentives for EV charger installation, which can offset the cost.

Public Charging: Limited but Available

The Think uses a standard J1772 connector for Level 2 charging, making it compatible with most public charging stations. However, there are a few caveats:

• No DC fast charging: The Think cannot use DC fast chargers (CHAdeMO or CCS), which are becoming standard at public stations.
• Charging station density: In 2024, most public chargers are designed for modern EVs with longer ranges. The Think’s short range means you may need to charge more frequently.
• Cost: Public Level 2 charging typically costs $0.10–$0.30 per kWh, making a full charge $1.40–$4.15.

For example, a 45-minute charge at a public station (adding ~25 miles) might cost $2.50—cheaper than gas, but less convenient than home charging.

Charging Tips for Think Owners

• Use a timer: Charge during off-peak hours (e.g., overnight) to save on electricity costs.
• Keep the battery warm: In cold climates, park in a garage or use a battery blanket to reduce warm-up time.
• Plan trips carefully: Use apps like PlugShare to locate compatible Level 2 chargers along your route.
• Charge to 80%: Frequent full charges can degrade battery health over time. 80% is sufficient for most daily needs.

The Ford Think in Context: How It Compares to Modern EVs

Historical Significance and Legacy

The Ford Think was ahead of its time in many ways. It was one of the first EVs to use regenerative braking, telematics (remote battery monitoring), and recyclable materials. Ford even offered a battery leasing program to reduce upfront costs—an idea now common with EVs like the Nissan Leaf.

However, the Think was also a victim of its era. Launched when lithium-ion batteries were expensive and charging infrastructure was sparse, it faced skepticism from consumers and dealers. Ford ultimately discontinued the Think in 2011, shifting focus to larger EVs like the Focus Electric and later the Mach-E.

Comparison with Modern City EVs

How does the Think stack up against today’s urban EVs like the Mini Cooper SE, Honda e, or Fiat 500e? Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Range: The Think’s 50–60 miles is dwarfed by modern city EVs (100–150 miles). The Mini SE, for example, offers 110 miles EPA.
• Charging: Modern EVs support DC fast charging (adding 80% in 30–40 minutes). The Think is limited to Level 2.
• Tech: The Think has no touchscreen, navigation, or advanced driver aids. Modern EVs offer Apple CarPlay, adaptive cruise, and over-the-air updates.
• Price: A used Think costs $5,000–$8,000, while a new Mini SE starts at $30,000. But the Think’s simplicity can be a plus for budget-conscious buyers.

Despite its limitations, the Think remains a pioneer of urban electrification. It proved that EVs could be practical, affordable, and fun in city environments—lessons that shaped today’s EV revolution.

Final Verdict: Is the Ford Think Still a Viable Option?

The Ford Think Electric Car is a fascinating relic of early EV innovation. It wasn’t a commercial success, but it was a critical learning experience for Ford and the automotive industry. For today’s buyers, the Think offers a unique blend of simplicity, sustainability, and urban practicality—but with clear trade-offs.

Who should consider it? The Think is ideal for:

• Urban commuters with short daily drives (under 40 miles).
• Second-car households looking for a low-cost, zero-emission runabout.
• EV enthusiasts interested in vintage electric technology.
• Fleet operators needing a reliable, low-maintenance city vehicle.

Who should avoid it? Drivers who:

• Need long-range capability or highway performance.
• Want modern tech features (infotainment, safety aids).
• Live in areas with extreme temperatures (Zebra batteries struggle in very hot or cold climates).

Ultimately, the Ford Think is a time capsule of early EV thinking. It reminds us that the journey to sustainable mobility is iterative, and that even “failed” experiments can pave the way for future success. While it may not be the EV of the future, it’s a crucial chapter in Ford’s electrification story—and a testament to the power of innovation, even when it doesn’t hit the mark the first time.

If you’re willing to embrace its quirks and limitations, the Ford Think can still deliver a rewarding, eco-friendly driving experience. It’s not just a car; it’s a piece of automotive history—and a reminder that the road to the future is built one bold step at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ford Think electric car’s real-world range?

The Ford Think electric car delivers a tested range of 80-100 miles on a full charge under mixed driving conditions. Range may vary based on speed, terrain, and climate control usage.

How does the Ford Think’s performance compare to gas-powered city cars?

The Ford Think offers zippy acceleration in urban settings thanks to its 50 kW electric motor, though top speed is limited to 70 mph. Its instant torque makes stop-and-go traffic effortless compared to traditional compact cars.

What charging options does the Ford Think electric car support?

The Ford Think uses a standard Level 1 (120V) charger included with purchase, with a full charge taking 6-8 hours. An optional Level 2 (240V) charger reduces charging time to 3-4 hours.

How reliable is the Ford Think’s battery over time?

Early models showed some degradation after 5+ years, but Ford improved battery management in later versions. Most batteries retain 70-80% capacity after 8 years of regular use.

Can the Ford Think handle highway driving?

While technically capable of 70 mph, the Ford Think is best suited for city commutes due to its limited range and lack of fast-charging support. Frequent highway trips reduce effective range by 15-20%.

What unique features does the Ford Think electric car offer?

The Ford Think includes regenerative braking to extend range and a digital “Energy Coach” display that tracks efficiency in real-time. Its compact footprint and 360-degree visibility make urban maneuvering effortless.