Ford Think Electric Car Speed Settings Explained for Maximum Performance

Master your Ford Think electric car’s speed settings to unlock peak performance and efficiency. By adjusting driving modes—like Eco, Normal, and Sport—you can optimize acceleration, energy use, and responsiveness for any road or driving style. Fine-tune your ride and get the most out of every charge with intelligent speed control.

Key Takeaways

• Optimize speed settings: Adjust for terrain to boost efficiency and performance.
• Use Sport mode: Unleash maximum acceleration and throttle response instantly.
• Eco mode saves energy: Extend range by limiting power and speed.
• Regen braking matters: Higher settings recharge battery and reduce brake wear.
• Check torque output: Higher settings deliver faster pickup but drain battery quicker.

Understanding the Ford Think: A Pioneer in Electric Mobility

The Ford Think (originally developed as the Think City) was one of the most ambitious early attempts at mass-market electric vehicles (EVs), produced from 1999 to 2011. Designed with urban commuters in mind, the Think series offered a compact, eco-friendly alternative to gasoline-powered cars. While the original models were limited in range and performance, they laid the foundation for modern EV technology, particularly in the area of electric car speed settings. For drivers and enthusiasts alike, understanding how these speed settings work—and how to optimize them—is critical for achieving maximum performance, efficiency, and safety.

Unlike traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, electric cars like the Ford Think use sophisticated motor controllers and battery management systems to regulate speed. These systems allow drivers to select different driving modes, adjust regenerative braking, and fine-tune power output. Whether you’re a current owner, a prospective buyer, or simply an EV enthusiast, mastering the Ford Think electric car speed settings can dramatically improve your driving experience. This guide dives deep into the mechanics, benefits, and best practices for leveraging these settings to unlock the full potential of your Ford Think.

The Core Technology Behind Ford Think Speed Control

At the heart of the Ford Think’s speed management system is its electric drive controller, a digital brain that translates driver input into precise motor commands. This system integrates with the battery pack, DC-DC converter, and motor to deliver smooth, responsive acceleration and deceleration. Understanding this technology is key to mastering speed settings.

Motor Controller and Throttle Mapping

The motor controller in the Ford Think uses a technique called throttle mapping to determine how much power the electric motor delivers based on pedal input. Unlike mechanical linkages in gas cars, the Think uses a potentiometer (or Hall-effect sensor) in the accelerator pedal to send a voltage signal to the controller. The controller then adjusts the motor’s torque and RPM accordingly.

• Linear Mapping: In standard mode, the pedal response is linear—more pedal, more power. This is ideal for city driving and predictable acceleration.
• Progressive Mapping: Some firmware updates or aftermarket tuning kits introduce progressive mapping, where initial pedal movement produces less power, and deeper presses unleash full torque. This improves control at low speeds.
• Eco Mode Mapping: When Eco mode is enabled, the controller limits peak current and softens throttle response to conserve energy.

Tip: If your Ford Think feels sluggish, check for firmware updates from Ford or authorized service centers. Early models had firmware that limited top speed to 60 mph (97 km/h), but later updates raised this to 70 mph (113 km/h) with proper calibration.

Battery Voltage and Power Output

The Ford Think City (2000–2002) used a 288V nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack, while later models (2008–2011) featured a 336V lithium-ion system. The higher voltage in lithium-ion models allows for greater power delivery and improved speed control.

• At full charge, the motor can draw up to 120 kW (161 hp) in lithium models, enabling 0–60 mph in ~12 seconds.
• As the battery discharges below 30%, the controller automatically reduces available power to protect the cells, resulting in slower acceleration.
• Voltage sag under load (e.g., climbing hills) can temporarily limit top speed by 5–10 mph.

Example: On a 10% grade hill, a fully charged Think City might maintain 50 mph, but a half-charged model could drop to 40 mph due to voltage limitations. Pre-planning routes to avoid steep inclines when battery is low helps maintain consistent speed.

Speed Settings and Driving Modes: How to Use Them

The Ford Think offers several built-in speed settings and driving modes designed to balance performance, range, and driver comfort. While not as advanced as modern EVs like the Mustang Mach-E, these settings are crucial for optimizing your driving experience.

Standard, Eco, and Power Modes

Depending on the model year and region, the Ford Think features up to three selectable driving modes:

• Standard Mode: Default setting. Balances responsiveness and efficiency. Top speed: 65–70 mph (105–113 km/h). Ideal for daily commuting.
• Eco Mode: Activated via dashboard button. Reduces motor torque by ~30%, softens throttle response, and increases regenerative braking. Increases range by 8–12% but limits top speed to 55 mph (88 km/h).
• Power Mode (if available): Found in later lithium-ion models. Increases torque delivery and reduces regenerative braking for faster acceleration. Top speed remains capped at 70 mph, but 0–30 mph time improves by 1.5 seconds.

Tip: Use Eco mode in stop-and-go traffic to maximize range. Switch to Standard mode on highways for stable cruising. Reserve Power mode for short bursts (e.g., merging onto freeways).

Regenerative Braking and Speed Management

Regenerative braking (regen) is a core feature of the Ford Think that directly affects speed control. When the driver lifts off the accelerator, the electric motor acts as a generator, slowing the car and recharging the battery.

• Low Regen: Minimal deceleration. Requires frequent use of friction brakes. Best for highway driving where coasting is common.
• Medium Regen: Default setting. Provides noticeable slowing when lifting off—ideal for city driving.
• High Regen (if equipped): Strong deceleration (“one-pedal driving”). Lifting off the accelerator can slow the car from 40 mph to 5 mph without touching the brake pedal.

Example: In a suburban neighborhood with frequent stop signs, High regen can reduce brake wear by 40% and recover up to 15% of energy per trip. However, it may feel jerky for new EV drivers—start with Medium and gradually increase intensity.

Speed Limiter and Cruise Control (Optional)

Some Ford Think models (especially European variants) include a speed limiter and adaptive cruise control:

• The speed limiter prevents the car from exceeding a set speed (e.g., 65 mph) to improve safety and efficiency.
• Cruise control maintains a constant speed, but only works above 25 mph and deactivates if the battery drops below 20%.

Tip: Use the speed limiter on highways to avoid unintentional speeding. Pair with Eco mode for maximum range. Avoid cruise control in hilly areas—it may overwork the battery.

Optimizing Speed Settings for Performance and Range

To get the most out of your Ford Think, you must tailor speed settings to your driving environment, battery health, and personal preferences. Below are data-driven strategies for maximizing performance and range.

Speed vs. Range: The Trade-Off

Electric vehicles experience a nonlinear relationship between speed and energy consumption. The Ford Think’s energy use (kWh/mile) increases exponentially above 45 mph due to aerodynamic drag and motor inefficiencies.

Speed (mph)	Energy Use (kWh/mile)	Range (Miles) on 17.5 kWh Battery	Best Driving Mode
30	0.28	62	Eco + High Regen
45	0.35	50	Standard + Medium Regen
60	0.50	35	Standard + Low Regen
70	0.68	26	Power (short bursts only)

Key Insight: Driving at 30 mph uses 58% less energy than at 70 mph. For daily commutes under 20 miles, prioritize lower speeds and Eco mode. For longer trips, accept reduced range for higher speed.

Battery Temperature and Speed Performance

Temperature drastically affects battery efficiency and power output. The Ford Think’s NiMH and lithium-ion batteries perform best between 68°F and 86°F (20°C–30°C).

• Cold Weather (<40°F/4°C): Battery capacity drops by 20–30%. The controller limits peak power to prevent damage. Pre-heating the cabin while plugged in helps maintain speed.
• Hot Weather (>95°F/35°C): Thermal management systems may throttle motor output to cool the battery. Avoid sustained high-speed driving in direct sunlight.

Tip: Use a battery blanket in winter to maintain optimal temperature. In summer, park in the shade and use a sunshade to reduce cabin heat load.

Customizing Settings for Your Route

Smart drivers adjust settings based on their route:

• City Driving: Eco mode + High regen + speed limiter at 45 mph. Maximizes range and safety.
• Suburban Routes: Standard mode + Medium regen. Balances responsiveness and efficiency.
• Highway Driving: Standard mode + Low regen + cruise control. Maintains steady speed without overusing regen.
• Hilly Terrain: Standard mode + Medium regen. Avoid Eco mode—insufficient power for climbs.

Example: A 15-mile commute with 3 miles of highway, 5 miles of city, and 7 miles of suburban roads might use: Eco mode (city), Standard mode (suburban), and Standard + cruise (highway). This strategy can extend range by 12% compared to using Standard mode for the entire trip.

Advanced Tuning and Aftermarket Upgrades

While the Ford Think was discontinued in 2011, a vibrant community of EV enthusiasts has developed aftermarket solutions to enhance speed settings and performance.

Firmware Updates and Controller Reprogramming

Original Ford Think controllers have firmware limitations, but third-party tuners offer upgrades:

• Speed Unlock: Removes factory speed cap (60 mph → 70 mph) by modifying controller firmware. Requires OBD-II interface and tuning software.
• Regen Tuning: Increases regen intensity beyond stock levels. Can enable true one-pedal driving.
• Torque Curve Adjustment: Flattens or sharpens the power delivery curve for smoother or more aggressive acceleration.

Warning: Unauthorized firmware changes may void warranties (if applicable) and increase battery stress. Always use reputable tuning services like EVTune or ThinkTuner.

Aftermarket Motor and Battery Upgrades

For maximum performance, some owners replace the original 50 kW motor and 17.5 kWh battery:

• AC Motor Swap: Replacing the DC motor with a 75 kW AC induction motor (e.g., AC-50 from Azure Dynamics) increases torque and efficiency.
• Larger Battery Pack: Installing a 25–30 kWh lithium-ion pack (e.g., from a Nissan Leaf) extends range to 100+ miles and supports higher sustained speeds.
• High-Voltage Controller: Upgraded controllers (e.g., Curtis 1239E) allow higher current flow, improving acceleration and hill-climbing ability.

Example: A fully upgraded Ford Think with a 75 kW AC motor, 28 kWh battery, and custom firmware can achieve 0–60 mph in 9 seconds and a top speed of 80 mph—nearly double the original performance.

DIY Speed Setting Hacks

For budget-conscious owners, simple DIY tweaks can improve speed control:

• Pedal Position Sensor Calibration: Recalibrating the accelerator pedal sensor ensures precise throttle response.
• Regen Level Switch: Installing a physical switch to toggle between Low/Medium/High regen without dashboard menus.
• Speed Display Mod: Adding an aftermarket speedometer with real-time energy use feedback to optimize driving style.

Tip: Use a Bluetooth OBD-II dongle (e.g., ELM327) with EV monitoring apps like Torque Pro to track speed, battery health, and efficiency in real time.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting Speed Settings

Even with proper use, Ford Think owners may encounter speed-related issues. Below are common problems and solutions.

Sudden Speed Limiting or “Limp Mode”

If your Think suddenly drops speed to 20–30 mph, it’s likely in “limp mode” due to:

• Low Battery Voltage: Charge immediately. Avoid driving below 15% state of charge.
• Overheating Controller: Let the car cool for 30 minutes. Check for debris blocking the controller’s cooling vents.
• Faulty Throttle Sensor: Test with a multimeter. Replace if resistance is inconsistent.

Tip: Keep a portable EV charger in the trunk for emergency top-ups.

Inconsistent Regen Braking

If regen feels weak or erratic:

• Check the battery state of charge—regen is disabled when the battery is full.
• Inspect the brake pedal switch—if faulty, it may disable regen prematurely.
• Verify the controller firmware version—older versions have regen glitches.

Example: A 2005 Think City with weak regen was fixed by updating the controller firmware from v2.1 to v3.4, restoring full regen functionality.

Speed Setting Malfunctions

If driving modes don’t respond:

• Reset the system by disconnecting the 12V auxiliary battery for 10 minutes.
• Test the mode selection switch with a continuity tester.
• Scan for DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) using an OBD-II scanner.

Warning: Never attempt to bypass safety features like the speed limiter without professional assistance.

Conclusion: Mastering Speed Settings for a Superior Driving Experience

The Ford Think may be a legacy EV, but its speed control system remains a masterclass in early electric vehicle engineering. By understanding the interplay between motor controllers, battery voltage, driving modes, and regenerative braking, you can transform a modest 17.5 kWh commuter into a responsive, efficient, and enjoyable vehicle. Whether you’re optimizing factory settings, installing aftermarket upgrades, or troubleshooting common issues, the principles of Ford Think electric car speed settings are timeless.

Remember: performance and range are not mutually exclusive. With smart use of Eco mode, regen braking, and route planning, you can achieve up to 62 miles of range at 30 mph—or enjoy spirited 70 mph highway driving with proper battery management. As EV technology continues to evolve, the lessons from the Ford Think live on, proving that even early pioneers can teach us how to drive smarter, faster, and greener.

So, whether you’re cruising through city streets or upgrading your Think for weekend adventures, take control of your speed settings. Your battery, your wallet, and the planet will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the speed settings available in the Ford Think Electric Car?

The Ford Think Electric Car features multiple speed settings, including Eco, Normal, and Sport modes, allowing drivers to balance efficiency and performance. These settings adjust throttle response, regenerative braking, and power output to match driving preferences.

How do I switch between Ford Think Electric Car speed settings?

You can toggle between speed settings via the dashboard touchscreen or a dedicated mode button, depending on your model. The interface clearly labels each mode to help you select the right one for your driving needs.

Which speed setting maximizes battery life in the Ford Think?

Eco mode is designed to extend battery life by reducing acceleration power and optimizing regenerative braking. It’s ideal for city driving or when you need to stretch your range.

Does the Sport mode in the Ford Think Electric Car improve speed?

Yes, Sport mode sharpens throttle response and delivers more immediate power for quicker acceleration. However, it consumes more energy, so it’s best used when performance is prioritized over range.

Can I customize the speed settings in the Ford Think Electric Car?

While preset modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) are fixed, some trims allow limited customization via the infotainment system. For example, you may adjust regenerative braking intensity to fine-tune efficiency and driving feel.

Why does my Ford Think feel slower in Normal mode compared to Sport?

Normal mode prioritizes balanced performance and efficiency, so throttle response is moderated. Sport mode unleashes full power, making acceleration noticeably quicker but at the cost of higher energy use.