Ford, the Blue Oval American automaker aims to use electric drive-trains in over 40% of its models by 2020 according to its CEO Mark Fields. To achieve this, the automaker is investing $ 4.5 billion in the next five years. By 2020 the automaker aims to add 13 electric cars to its wide collection as well as expand their research on batteries to improve range.
To kick off the new range of electric vehicles is a new Ford Focus electric which will sell as a 2017 model year vehicle. Production of the model will commence in late 2016 with sales expected early next year. The new model will have an increased range of 100 miles. The model is also set to become the first Ford model to use a fast charger which can replenish the battery to 80% in only 30 minutes which is around two hours faster than the current Focus Electric charging system.
2017 Ford Focus Electric Exterior
Except for minimal visual upgrades, the 2016 Ford Focus Electric looks similar to the 2015 model. Similarly, we don’t expect the automaker to effect many changes on the 2017 model as most of the improvements are focused on the drive-train.
Therefore, expect the 2017 Ford Focus Electric to feature 15-spoke aluminum painted wheels. Also, expect a full package of LED lights with HID automatic headlights. It will also feature LED taillights and an LED illuminated external charging port ring. An exterior protection package will again be offered as an option. The automaker has not said anything about its exterior, therefore, be sure to check back this page as we will keep updating it with latest developments from the Blue Oval automaker.
2017 Ford Focus Electric Interior
The interior information is not also available as well. However, the model will receive most of the outgoing model’s styling cues. As such expect to find a SYNC 3 infotainment system which comes with upgraded Voice Recognition Entertainment and Communication system. This system replaced the outdated MyFord Touch system. It features cleaner graphics, efficient voice controls as well as a better response to its touch-screen display. For convenience, the cabin features a dual-zone automatic climate control which adds a dose of convenience to all passengers. There will also be an air filtration system.
To further the green theme, the cabin seat fabrics are made from 100% recycled materials. Its seat cushions are made from soy-based bio-foam sourced from plant seed oils. Ford also said that the cabin will feature an EcoGuide LCD Instrument Cluster which comes with an array of customizable displays. The automaker also added that the vehicle will be fun to drive and will provide agile steering.
Engine Specs
Under the hood, the 2017 Ford Focus Electric will get a significant engine upgrade. The automaker will equip the Focus Electric with an improved lithium-ion battery that will improve its range from the current 76 miles to around 100 miles which is almost at par with the 2016 Nissan Leaf’s 107 miles range.
The model also gets a new DC fast-charging system. The system enables the batteries to be replenished to 80% in 30 minutes as mentioned earlier. Further, the model will feature a BrakeCoach system that provides real-time guidance to help the driver take advantage of the car’s on-board regenerative system. It will also feature an upgraded SmartGauge and EcoGuide instrumentation.
Price and release date
It is too early for Ford to set an official price for the Focus Electric since it has not even started production. However, we believe the new model’s price won’t vary much from the current model’s $ 27, 829.
Ford could even reduce the price slightly to enable the automaker to compete with its rivals which have longer ranges. Production and sales will begin in late 2016, Ford plans a good global sale of its popular hatchback.
Competition
Automakers are striving to adhere to stringent new fuel economy standards set by the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) which requires automakers to attain a fleet average fuel economy of 54.5 mpg by 2025. The requirements have sent all automakers on a charm offensive which makes Ford new 100 miles range pure “child-play” and can be compared to the 106 miles range 2016 Nissan Leaf which is already on the market .
As it is planning a 100 miles range Focus Electric for 2017, across town, GM showcased their 200-mile range Chevy Bolt due for 2017. The EV trend setters Nissan Leaf and Tesla model S will also release their 200 miles range EVs in the coming months. The Hyundai Ionic with 150 miles range is also on the way. Ford will thus have their going very tough amid such competition.
