Ford Focus Electric

To create its first electric car, Ford took the path of least resistance, abandoning the development of a car from scratch and deciding to create an electric car based on an existing model. Thus, the Ford Focus Electric is a model of the third generation of the Ford Focus hatchback converted into an electric car, which automatically migrated to the first generation of the electric car.

Ford Focus Electric was the best fit for the role of the company's first electric car, becoming a symbiosis of the most positive qualities of an eco—friendly car - compactness, economy and practicality.

Just like the standard hatchback, the Ford Focus Electric has a sporty profile. Small changes have affected the front of the car, now the dominant role is played by large air intakes, on both sides of which are slightly modified headlights and "muscular" front fenders. The stern of the electric car is equipped with a large, protruding spoiler and enlarged taillights with rounded shapes around the sides of the car. According to the design concept, the exterior of the Ford Focus Electric should express the stylistic credo "energy in motion". We do not undertake to judge whether it was possible to realize this idea, but the electric car looks very impressive and wins in terms of design from many competitors.

Technical characteristics and driving qualities

As befits an electric car, the Ford Focus Electric is driven by an electric motor with a power of 107 kW. The power plant generates indicators equivalent to 143 hp and provides 250 Nm of torque. Acceleration of the car to 100 km / h takes 9.5 seconds, and the maximum speed is 135 km / h. The electric motor is powered by 23 kWh lithium-ion batteries. The battery pack operates in an active liquid cooling mode, which ensures stable battery operation by maintaining an optimal temperature regime. Large air intakes play an essential role in cooling the electrical system of the car.

In the process of movement, the regenerative capabilities of the braking system are actively used, regenerating more than 95% of energy. As soon as the brakes of the car are triggered, the electric motor starts working in the generator mode, generating energy that is stored in the battery.

Driving a car is fun. Smooth, soft, but at the same time tenacious and quite dynamic car feels equally comfortable on city roads and spacious highways. The absence of engine noise lulls, so riding it requires adaptation to get used to its "silence". The suspension of the car is comfortable and perfectly copes with bumps on the road. Steering is informative and quickly finds a response when turning the steering wheel.

Charging the car

A big plus of the Ford Focus Electric is its universal charging capabilities. This car can be "refueled" both at home from a conventional household power grid and from three-phase charging stations. Charging time varies from 3 to 8 hours depending on the selected method. In addition, a "simple connection" home charging station was developed specifically for the car by the manufacturer, that is, it does not require the participation of professional electricians to install it.

As an environmentally friendly car, the Ford Focus Electric can be recharged using alternative energy sources, primarily solar panels. In some countries, the car takes an active part in advertising campaigns of solar panel manufacturers, who demonstrate the capabilities of their products using the example of an electric car.