Ford Focus Electric unveiled

Ford has today unveiled its new all-electric Focus. Following our news article last week, we can reveal that the new variant utilises a 23kWh liquid cooled lithium-ion battery pack to achieve a range of up to 160 kilometres. The battery pack was developed in conjunction with LG Chem and uses heated and cooled liquid to extend battery life. According to Ford, thermal management of lithium-ion batteries is critical to the long term success of EVs, and helps improve charge times.

Differentiating itself from most comers to the electric market, Focus Electric boasts a 3-4 hour recharge time when connected to a 240v domestic outlet. That time is some 2-4 hours better than current market offerings.

Focus Electric is charged via a fender-mounted port surrounded by an illuminated light ring. Lit in quadrants, the ring acknowledges a proper charging connection and when flashing represents charging is in progress. A solid lit ring signifies charge completion. If something is awry, the entire ring flashes intermittently.

Achieving a top speed of 135km/h Focus Electric features a version of Ford's MyTouch system with an interface especially designed for the electric vehicle. Among other functions, the interface includes a screen that displays an increasing number of butterflies as the car is driven more efficiently, much like the 'tree' display on Nissan's LEAF.

Further, the vehicle's control system can also be accessed remotely via the owner's smart phone through a system Ford calls MyFord Mobile. The application allows owners to set charging times to make the most of off-peak power rates and remotely unlock the doors, to name a few.

The Ford Focus Electric will be available in the US from November this year with pricing and full specifications to be announced closer to that time. Local availability is yet to be confirmed.

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