How Much Is a Ford Focus Electric Car A Complete Price Breakdown

Key Takeaways

• Price starts at $29,995: Base model offers affordability in the EV market.
• Federal tax credit applies: Save up to $7,500 with eligible incentives.
• Charging costs less than gas: Annual energy expenses average $600.
• Lower trims offer best value: SE model balances features and cost.
• Resale value lags rivals: Expect 40% depreciation after 3 years.
• Home charger adds $1,000: Factor in installation for convenience.

How Much Is a Ford Focus Electric Car? A Complete Price Breakdown

So, you’re thinking about going electric. Maybe you’re tired of the gas pump, or you’re just curious about how much a Ford Focus Electric car really costs. You’re not alone. With more people looking for affordable, eco-friendly options, the Ford Focus Electric has become a popular choice for city drivers and eco-conscious families alike. But before you take the leap, you want to know: how much is a Ford Focus Electric car? It’s a fair question, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. The price depends on several factors, from trim levels to incentives, and even whether you buy new or used.

When I first started researching electric cars, I was overwhelmed by the numbers. Was I paying more for the battery? Would I save on fuel? And what about tax credits? I wanted something reliable, affordable, and practical for my daily commute. The Ford Focus Electric seemed to check all the boxes, but I needed to dig deeper. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the cost of a Ford Focus Electric—new, used, and everything in between. Think of it as the conversation I wish I’d had before making my own decision.

Understanding the Base Price of a New Ford Focus Electric

If you’re considering a brand-new Ford Focus Electric, the first thing you’ll notice is that it’s no longer in production. Ford stopped making the Focus Electric in 2018, which means there are no new models being sold directly from dealerships today. But don’t let that discourage you—there are still ways to get a nearly-new or well-maintained version, often with low mileage and modern features.

Visual guide about how much is a ford focus electric car

Image source: mediacloud.carbuyer.co.uk

Original MSRP and What You Got for the Money

When it was available, the Ford Focus Electric had a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting around $29,170 before any incentives. That included:

• A 107-kWh battery pack (though actual usable capacity was closer to 23 kWh)
• 110 kW electric motor (roughly 143 horsepower)
• Regenerative braking system
• 17-inch aluminum wheels
• SYNC 3 infotainment system with touchscreen
• Heated front seats and steering wheel
• Rearview camera and parking sensors

For the time, that was a solid package. The car offered a smooth, quiet ride and a decent 76–115 miles of range (depending on driving conditions and model year). But compared to today’s EVs, that range feels limited. Still, for city driving or short commutes, it was more than enough.

Why the Price Felt Justified (or Not)

Let’s be honest: $29K for a compact hatchback with 100 miles of range might seem high today. But back in 2012–2018, EVs were still in their early stages. The Focus Electric was Ford’s answer to the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt—offering a similar price point but with a slightly different design and feature set.

One thing that helped justify the cost was the standard features. Unlike some competitors, Ford included heated seats, a premium audio system, and advanced climate control as standard—features you’d often pay extra for in other EVs. That made the Focus Electric feel like a “loaded” compact car, even if the range wasn’t class-leading.

Still, the biggest drawback was the limited fast-charging capability. The Focus Electric only supported Level 2 charging (240V), not DC fast charging. That meant a full charge took about 4 hours on a 240V charger, or up to 20 hours on a standard 120V outlet. For road trips, that was a dealbreaker for many.

Used Ford Focus Electric: What You Can Expect to Pay in 2024

Since new models aren’t available, the used market is where most buyers find the Ford Focus Electric. And here’s the good news: prices have dropped significantly since its original release. You can now find well-maintained models for a fraction of the original cost.

Price Ranges by Model Year and Condition

As of 2024, here’s what you can expect to pay for a used Ford Focus Electric, based on data from Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Edmunds, and CarGurus:

• 2012–2014 models: $5,000–$9,000
• 2015–2016 models: $8,000–$12,000
• 2017–2018 models: $11,000–$15,000

Keep in mind, these are average prices. A 2018 model with under 30,000 miles, a clean title, and no accident history might push $16,000, while a higher-mileage 2013 model with some cosmetic wear could dip below $5,000.

Factors That Affect Used Car Prices

Not all used Focus Electrics are created equal. Here are the key factors that influence price:

• Mileage: Lower mileage (under 60,000 miles) is ideal. Battery degradation starts to become noticeable beyond 80,000 miles.
• Battery Health: Ask for a battery health report. Most dealers and third-party services (like AAA) can run a diagnostic. Look for a state of health (SOH) of 80% or higher.
• Accident History: A clean Carfax report is a must. Even minor accidents can affect battery integrity or safety systems.
• Location: Prices are often higher in California, Oregon, and other states with strong EV incentives and charging infrastructure.
• Included Charging Equipment: Some sellers include a Level 2 home charger (like a ClipperCreek or ChargePoint), which can add $500–$1,000 in value.

Pro tip: Always test-drive the car and check the charging port, battery gauge, and infotainment system. A quick 15-minute drive can reveal a lot about how well the car has been maintained.

Where to Find the Best Deals

You’ve got options when it comes to buying a used Focus Electric:

• Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) programs: Some Ford dealerships still offer CPO electric cars. These come with warranties (often 12 months/12,000 miles) and a thorough inspection. Expect to pay a slight premium—but it’s worth it for peace of mind.
• Online marketplaces: CarGurus, Autotrader, and Facebook Marketplace often have great deals. Just be cautious of private sellers who can’t provide maintenance records.
• EV-specific dealers: Companies like Plug In America or EV-specific dealerships often specialize in used electric cars and may offer better pricing and service.

Federal and State Incentives: How Much Can You Save?

One of the biggest misconceptions about EVs is that you only get incentives when buying new. But here’s a little secret: some used EVs still qualify for tax credits—and the Ford Focus Electric is one of them.

The Federal Used Clean Vehicle Tax Credit

Starting in 2023, the Inflation Reduction Act introduced a federal tax credit of up to $4,000 for qualified used electric vehicles. To qualify:

• The car must be at least 2 years old and priced at $25,000 or less.
• The buyer must have an adjusted gross income (AGI) under $75,000 (single), $112,500 (head of household), or $150,000 (joint filers).
• The vehicle must be purchased from a licensed dealer (not a private party).

Since most used Focus Electrics are under $15,000, and the car is 5+ years old, it easily qualifies for the full $4,000 credit. That’s a massive savings—and it’s not a rebate; it’s a dollar-for-dollar reduction in your tax bill.

Example: If you buy a $12,000 2017 Focus Electric from a dealer, you can claim the $4,000 credit when you file your taxes. Your net cost drops to $8,000—before any state incentives.

State and Local Rebates and Perks

Many states offer additional incentives. Here are a few examples:

• California: Up to $1,000 in Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP) for used EVs. You may also get HOV lane access with a clean air vehicle sticker.
• Colorado: Up to $2,000 in tax credits for used EVs.
• New York: $2,000 rebate through the Drive Clean Rebate program.
• Oregon: Up to $1,500 in rebates for low-income buyers.

Some cities and utility companies even offer free or discounted home charging installations. For instance, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) has a program that covers 100% of the cost to install a Level 2 charger if you buy a used EV.

Tip: Visit the Alternative Fuels Data Center to search incentives by ZIP code. It’s updated monthly and includes everything from tax credits to parking discounts.

Total Cost of Ownership: Beyond the Purchase Price

Buying a car isn’t just about the sticker price. You also need to think about long-term costs: electricity, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation. The Ford Focus Electric actually shines in some of these areas.

Fuel (Electricity) Costs

Charging a Focus Electric costs a fraction of what you’d pay for gas. The car uses about 30 kWh per 100 miles. At the U.S. average electricity rate of $0.15/kWh, that’s just $4.50 per 100 miles. Compare that to a gas-powered Focus with 30 MPG and $3.50/gallon gas: $11.67 per 100 miles.

Real-world example: If you drive 12,000 miles a year, you’ll spend about $540 on electricity vs. $1,400 on gas. That’s a savings of $860 annually—almost $4,300 over five years.

Maintenance and Repairs

EVs have fewer moving parts than gas cars. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no exhaust system. The Focus Electric requires:

• Regular tire rotations and brake checks
• Coolant changes (every 100,000 miles)
• Software updates (available at dealerships)

Most owners report annual maintenance costs of $300–$500, about half that of a comparable gas-powered car. However, battery replacements can be expensive—up to $10,000 if out of warranty. But with a well-maintained battery (80%+ health), you likely won’t need a replacement for 8–10 years.

Insurance and Depreciation

Insurance for the Focus Electric is comparable to other compact cars—usually $1,200–$1,600 per year, depending on your location and driving record. Some insurers even offer EV discounts for low emissions and safety features.

Depreciation is where the Focus Electric has already taken the biggest hit. Since it’s no longer produced, values have stabilized. You’re not going to lose much more value over the next few years—especially if you buy a 2017–2018 model now.

How the Ford Focus Electric Compares to Other EVs in Its Class

To really understand if the Focus Electric is worth the price, let’s see how it stacks up against similar used EVs.

Price and Range Comparison (Used, 2015–2018 Models)

Which One Is Right for You?

• If you want the lowest upfront cost and don’t need fast charging, the Focus Electric or Leaf is a great pick.
• If you want more range and modern tech, the Bolt EV is worth the extra $2,000–$4,000.
• If you want luxury and performance, the BMW i3 is a standout—but expect higher maintenance costs.

The Focus Electric holds up well for city drivers who mostly charge at home and don’t take long road trips. It’s reliable, affordable, and surprisingly fun to drive—especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Final Thoughts: Is the Ford Focus Electric Worth the Price?

So, how much is a Ford Focus Electric car? The answer depends on your needs, budget, and location. A used model from 2017–2018 can cost between $11,000 and $15,000—but with federal and state incentives, you could bring that down to $7,000–$10,000. That’s an incredible value for a well-equipped electric car.

The Focus Electric isn’t perfect. Its range is limited, and it lacks fast charging. But for daily commuting, school drop-offs, and weekend errands, it’s more than capable. And with lower fuel and maintenance costs, it can save you thousands over the life of the car.

When I finally bought mine (a 2017 model with 45,000 miles), I paid $13,500. After the $4,000 federal credit and $1,000 state rebate, my net cost was $8,500. I’ve saved over $2,000 on electricity alone in two years, and I’ve barely spent anything on maintenance. It’s been one of the best car decisions I’ve made.

If you’re on the fence, here’s my advice: look for a low-mileage 2017–2018 model, check the battery health, and take advantage of every incentive available. The Ford Focus Electric may not be the flashiest EV out there, but it’s a smart, practical, and affordable way to go electric—without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a Ford Focus Electric car in 2024?

The 2024 Ford Focus Electric starts at around $39,995 before incentives, though pricing may vary by trim and region. This base price includes standard features like a 107-kWh battery and 143-mile range. Federal tax credits could reduce the effective cost to under $33,000.

What factors affect the price of a Ford Focus Electric?

Trim level (SE, SEL, or Titanium), optional packages (like heated seats or premium audio), and destination fees can add $2,000–$5,000 to the Ford Focus Electric car price. Dealer markups and local rebates also impact final cost.

Is the Ford Focus Electric cheaper to own than gas models?

Yes, despite a higher upfront cost, the Focus Electric saves money long-term with lower maintenance (no oil changes) and charging costs (~$0.04/mile vs. $0.13/mile for gas). Tax credits further improve affordability.

Are there financing or lease deals for the Ford Focus Electric?

Ford often offers special financing (e.g., 3.9% APR for 60 months) or lease deals (~$299/month with $3,000 down) on the Focus Electric. Check Ford’s website for current promotions in your area.

How does the Ford Focus Electric price compare to rivals?

The Focus Electric is competitively priced against the Nissan Leaf (~$29k–$37k) and Chevrolet Bolt (~$26k–$30k), but its 143-mile range is lower than some competitors. Consider trade-offs between price and range.

Does the Ford Focus Electric qualify for tax incentives?

Yes, it’s eligible for the full $7,500 federal tax credit if purchased new. Some states (like California) offer additional rebates up to $2,000, slashing the effective Ford Focus Electric car price.