Ford Throws Its Hat in the Electric Car Ring
The Ford Focus Electric was officially unveiled last week at CES in Las Vegas (check out Jaymi's coverage of that event), but it was also on display in Detroit, so I had to have a closer look. Of course, it's very similar to the gasoline version of the new Focus, but the front grille has been modified a bit, and of course, the tailpipe in the back is gone. Keep on reading for many more photos and info about the Ford Focus Electric.
Ford says that the Electric Focus will "will launch in late 2011". Total range hasn't been released yet, but based on the 23 kwh capacity of the battery, I would guess that it will be around 100 miles. The electric Focus will be assembled in Ford's Michigan Assembly Plant, Wayne, Michigan, alongside the gasoline and hybrid versions of the Focus.
One benefit of the Focus Electric over the Nissan LEAF is that a full recharge using the 240 volt charger will only take 3-4 hours, about half the time it takes to charge the LEAF.
Top speed for the Focus Electric will be 84 mph (136 kph), no doubt electronically limited to conserve battery charge (too bad for autobahn drivers). The electric motor produces 123 hp/92 kw and 181 lb.-ft./246 Nm of torque which goes to the front wheels through a 1-speed transmission.
Curb weight is 3,691 lbs (could probably be lighter if it used aluminum, but that would increase the sticker price).
"Just as the growing leafy vine of first-generation SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide represents fuel efficiency in the Ford Fusion Hybrid, the cluster display in Focus Electric uses blue butterflies to represent the surplus range beyond one's charge point destination - the more butterflies there are, the greater the range.
The cluster is also integrated with the MyFord Touch map-based Navigation System using the vehicle's center stack 8-inch touch screen. After adding their driving destinations, including their next charge point, into the vehicle's Navigation System, the vehicle will coach drivers on how to achieve the desired range - or if travel plans need to be adjusted. The on-board Navigation System provides an EcoRoute option based on characteristics of efficient EV driving."
Ford Focus Electric Battery Pack
Here's the heart of the Focus Electric, the battery pack. It's a lithium-ion pack made by LG Chem (23 kwh capacity), and it is liquid cooled/heated.
The 240v charging station that will be sold and installed by Best Buy.
"With its maximum 32-amp charging capability, Focus Electric owners with the 240-volt home charging station can get a full charge in as little as three to four hours - charging in half the time as the Nissan Leaf During the appointment, a Geek Squad agent will conduct a quick electrical audit to ensure the residence can support the 240-volt charging station. Once the residence passes the electrical audit, the Geek Squad agent will schedule a master electrician for a hassle-free charging station installation."
Based on current plans, the home charging station with standard installation is expected to retail for approximately $1,499, as much as "30 percent less than competitors' systems."
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