Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Can inductive charging save the EV?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/can-inductive-charging-save-the-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/can-inductive-charging-save-the-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/can-inductive-charging-save-the-ev/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Let's Face It, We're Just Plain Lazy



Recent news about the price cuts on the Ford Focus EV and Nissan Leaf are proof positive that despite all their eco-goodness, pure electrics as well as plug-in hybrids remain a tough sell to the American mass market.

There's no doubt automakers are committed to electrifying an increasing portion of their product offerings. The problem is that no one needs to buy an EV or plug-in hybrid. But with CAFE standards doubling to 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025 and California's mandate that major manufacturers sell zero-emission vehicles as a percentage of their overall fleets (a measure also adopted by 13 other states), carmakers have to sell EVs and plug-in hybrids to avoid costly penalties or face caps on the number of vehicles they are allowed to sell.

Matt DeLorenzo is the former editor-in-chief of Road & Track and has covered the auto industry for 35 years, including stints at Automotive News and AutoWeek. He has authored books including VW's New Beetle, Chrysler's Modern Concept Cars, and Corvette Dynasty.

Continue reading Can inductive charging save the EV?

Can inductive charging save the EV? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargingchevroletelectric carsevev chargingevatranevsfeaturedfocus electricfordinductive chargingleafnissanvoltWed, 06 Feb 2013 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20444586/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/06/can-inductive-charging-save-the-ev/20444586/article-detail.xml 20444586 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/evatran-plugless-power-1348203514_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/evatran-plugless-power-1348203514.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Focus EV's slow sales trigger massive incentives]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/25/ford-focus-evs-slow-sales-trigger-massive-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/25/ford-focus-evs-slow-sales-trigger-massive-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/25/ford-focus-evs-slow-sales-trigger-massive-incentives/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Ford Focus Electric - front three-quarter view

The Detroit News reports Ford is having real trouble moving its new Focus Electric. As a result, the automaker is offering substantial incentives in an attempt to lure in more buyers. How substantial? Try $10,750 off of a three-year lease. What's more, the EV can now be had for $37,995 ($2,000 less than its original base price) on top of an additional $2,000 cash discount to buy the EV outright - or you can opt for 1.9-percent financing if you work through Ford Motor Credit. None of which factors in various potential government incentives. Last year, Ford managed to sell a paltry 685 of the 1,627 Focus EV hatchbacks it built.

Ford isn't alone in trying to woo more buyers to its EV effort. Nissan cut the price of its Leaf by a whopping 18 percent for 2013, now down to $28,800 and built in the USA. The move followed the automaker's substantial incentives in 2012.

If you want a Focus Electric, you can now apparently get your hands on one for as little as $285 per month with $930 due at signing for a 36-month lease with 10,500 miles per year.

Ford Focus EV's slow sales trigger massive incentives originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus electricdiscountelectricevev salesfocusfocus electricfocus electric incentivesfordford focus electricincentivesFri, 25 Jan 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20438926/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/25/ford-focus-evs-slow-sales-trigger-massive-incentives/20438926/article-detail.xml 20438926 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/focus-electric-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/focus-electric-628.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i>: Ford Fusion fun but flawed; Mitsubishi i-MiEV slow, chintzy [w/videos]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/23/consumer-reports-ford-fusion-fun-but-flawed-mitsubishi/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/23/consumer-reports-ford-fusion-fun-but-flawed-mitsubishi/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/23/consumer-reports-ford-fusion-fun-but-flawed-mitsubishi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Ford Fusion - front three-quarter view

Waiting for a Ford compliment from Consumer Reports these days is like waiting for a low-cost new product from Apple. So we weren't really expecting a glowing review of the 2013 Ford Fusion when CR got its hands on the car. The institute's crew bought three different versions of the Fusion (Hybrid, 1.6-liter EcoBoost and a Titanium with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost) to put through its barrage of tests, and while we aren't too surprised by some of the findings, they're still interesting nonetheless.

Mitsubishi i - front three-quarter view, studio imageCR praises the Fusion for its "eye-catching" design and says that the sportier Titanium trim level is the best-handling midsize sedan they've ever tested, but that's about where the good news ends for Ford. The Fusion Hybrid also posted the best-ever fuel economy CR has recorded in a midsize sedan, but the only problem is that their number was 39 miles per gallon combined - far less than Ford's 47 mpg rating for city, highway and combined. As expected, CR also dinged the Fusion for its MyFord Touch, but some of the other gripes about the car include a cramped cabin and poor fit and finish.

Other Ford products tested this time around include the Focus Electric and C-Max Hybrid. Like the Fusion, CR's observed fuel economy of 37 mpg for the C-Max fell well short of Ford's advertised 47-mpg rating, and both cars were criticized for the use of MyFord Touch. CR notes that the Focus Electric's interior is also cramped, with the battery pack taking up a lot of cargo space.

In other news, CR slams the Mitsubishi i-MiEV electric car rather mercilessly, something that is perhaps less surprising. The institute digs into the low-cost urban runabout for its lack of speed, payload, and chintzy finish, among other things.

You can check out videos about the Fusion Hybrid, Focus Electric and i-MiEV by scrolling below.

Continue reading Consumer Reports: Ford Fusion fun but flawed; Mitsubishi i-MiEV slow, chintzy [w/videos]

Consumer Reports: Ford Fusion fun but flawed; Mitsubishi i-MiEV slow, chintzy [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford fusion2013 mitsubishi ic-max hybridconsumer reportsfocus electricfordfusioni-mievmitsubishiWed, 23 Jan 2013 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20436546/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/23/consumer-reports-ford-fusion-fun-but-flawed-mitsubishi/20436546/article-detail.xml 20436546 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-ford-fusion---red_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-ford-fusion---red.jpg <![CDATA[Study says EV battery pricing could plunge by 70% by 2025]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/study-says-ev-battery-pricing-could-plunge-by-70-by-2025/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/study-says-ev-battery-pricing-could-plunge-by-70-by-2025/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/study-says-ev-battery-pricing-could-plunge-by-70-by-2025/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ford Focus Electric badge

Reuters is reporting on a new study that suggests the cost of lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles could plummet dramatically by 2025. Consulting firm McKinsey & Co. conducted the study, which indicated increasing oil prices and tougher fuel economy standards could force automakers to build more electric cars, thereby increasing the scale of lithium-ion battery manufacturing by significant margins. In addition, the research predicts consumer electronics companies like Apple may lend some technology advancements to reduce costs associated with producing the battery packs themselves. All told, the study expects to see prices fall from $500-$600 per kilowatt hour to $200 by 2020 and $160 by 2025.

For example, Reuters points out that the 23 kilowatt hour battery in the 2013 Ford Focus Electric is estimated to cost between $12,000 and $15,000. The McKinsey study claims that if fuel prices hold steady at $3.50 per gallon and batteries fall to the projected levels, automakers could begin to offer price-competitive electric vehicles.

The study also indicates battery manufacturers may begin to standardize cell construction and production, further reducing the cost of equipment needed to produce the packs.

Study says EV battery pricing could plunge by 70% by 2025 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jul 2012 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterybattery costsbattery productionelectricelectric carsevev batteriesfocus electricfocus evford focus electriclithium ionlithium ion batterymckinseyFri, 13 Jul 2012 17:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20277480/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/13/study-says-ev-battery-pricing-could-plunge-by-70-by-2025/20277480/article-detail.xml 20277480 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/focus-electric-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/focus-electric-628.jpg <![CDATA[First Ford Focus Electric models en route to dealerships]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/first-ford-focus-electric-models-en-route-to-dealerships/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/first-ford-focus-electric-models-en-route-to-dealerships/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/first-ford-focus-electric-models-en-route-to-dealerships/#commentsFiled under: ,



The 2012 Ford Focus Electric is officially on its way to dealerships. Outlets in California, New Jersey, and New York - 67 in all - are going to be the first to receive the electron-fueled Focus, with about six cars each winding up on lots. To help dealers build more excitement for what's likely to be a slow-starting sales story, the dealers will hold one of the Focus EVs as a demonstrator.

Even if fewer than 5,000 Focus Electric models find buyers this year, Alan Mulally won't be disappointed. While Ford ultimately expects electrics and hybrid vehicles to account for up to 25 percent of its sales volume by 2020, the company is moving deliberately. Rather than develop and tool an entirely new platform, Ford's move to modify the Focus for electric propulsion is said to allow some semblance of a profit margin, but it's going to take time for consumers to warm to the idea of a $40,000 Focus, even if a third of that price is the battery, and Ford appears to be keeping this in mind.

After the initial 350 or so cars are delivered to the pilot stores, the rest of the Ford dealers across the nation will start getting the Focus EV before spring turns into summer.

First Ford Focus Electric models en route to dealerships originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford focus electricfocusfocus electricfordTue, 22 May 2012 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20241431/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/first-ford-focus-electric-models-en-route-to-dealerships/20241431/article-detail.xml 20241431 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/03-2012-ford-focus-electric-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/03-2012-ford-focus-electric-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Ford releases photos of Focus Electric NASCAR pace car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/ford-releases-photos-of-focus-electric-nascar-pace-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/ford-releases-photos-of-focus-electric-nascar-pace-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/ford-releases-photos-of-focus-electric-nascar-pace-car/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Last week, Ford announced that it would be creating the world's first all-electric pace car in the form of the Focus Electric hatchback. Set to lap the oval at the Richmond 400 at the end of this month, the official Focus Electric NASCAR pace car was unveiled to the public at Richmond International Raceway today, showing off the battery-powered vehicle wrapped in its decidedly modest racing livery.

We recently had our first opportunity to drive Ford's all-electric Focus and find it to be a pleasant and engaging - if inconspicuous - EV. These large decals certainly help the BEV to stand out, and we're interested to see how the Focus Electric looks while its whirring along in front of some power-hungry NASCAR racers.

Scroll through our high-resolution image gallery above to see a few shots of the zero-emission Focus pace car, and scroll down for Ford's original press release.

Continue reading Ford releases photos of Focus Electric NASCAR pace car

Ford releases photos of Focus Electric NASCAR pace car originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford focus electricfocusfocus electricfordnascarpace carWed, 25 Apr 2012 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20224132/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/25/ford-releases-photos-of-focus-electric-nascar-pace-car/20224132/article-detail.xml 20224132 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/focuselectric628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/focuselectric628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Ford Focus Electric]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/2012-ford-focus-electric-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/2012-ford-focus-electric-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/2012-ford-focus-electric-quick-spin-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The EV Incognito



You know those "spot the difference" side-by-side photos that are commonly reserved for Highlights magazines in a dentist's waiting room? "Can you find seven differences between these two pictures?" Park a 2012 Ford Focus Electric next to its gasoline-powered kin and you'll essentially be playing a three-dimensional version.

But that's exactly why we like this zero-emission, battery-powered compact. It doesn't have a funky name, it isn't all bubbly shaped, and it's still as functional as any new Focus we've sampled to date.

So, does this whole package of anonymous electrification work? It looks like a Focus, but does it drive like one and offer the same refinement, too? We headed to the southern California coast to find out.

Continue reading 2012 Ford Focus Electric

2012 Ford Focus Electric originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford focus electricfeaturedfocusfocus electricfordquick spinquickspinTue, 24 Apr 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20222378/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/2012-ford-focus-electric-quick-spin-review/20222378/article-detail.xml 20222378 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2012-ford-focus-electric-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2012-ford-focus-electric-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford prepared for slow sales with Focus Electric]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/19/ford-prepared-for-slow-sales-with-focus-electric/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/19/ford-prepared-for-slow-sales-with-focus-electric/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/19/ford-prepared-for-slow-sales-with-focus-electric/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Along with Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn, Ford CEO Alan Mulally is confident in the growth of the electric car segment. It's a long-term play, though, so Mulally isn't committing the electric Ford Focus EV to making a strong sales statement. For now, Ford's chief says he'd be fine moving fewer than 5,000 Focus EVs in the model's first full year. And even that would mean a steep rise in uptake based on just 12 having been sold in December and January.

The Wall Street Journal reports that Mulally has also let slip the cost for the battery pack in the all-electric Focus: "around $12,000 to $15,000," which makes the Focus Electric's starting cost of $39,200 a bit more understandable. Given that price range and the EV's 23-kWh battery, that means Ford's cost is between $522 and $650 per kWh, which is lower than the estimated $689-per-kWh industry average so far this year.

Reportage on the current sales of EVs is a bit schizophrenic - for example, bullish here, bearish here, but the commentators and the numbers seem to support Mulally's confidence. If the Focus EV did manage 5,000 sales this year, that would be a little more than half of the 2011 tally for the Nissan Leaf, yet according to Bloomberg, EV market share grew more quickly than any other segment in Q1: Nissan is still working through its Leaf pre-order list, Chevrolet Volt sales were up 277 percent to 2,129 units vs. March 2011, the Opel Ampera has exceeded sales expectations, and other electric vehicles and their marketing pushes will come online later this year. Oh, and gas prices are still climbing.

There were no Focus EVs sold in February or March, but the retail push is gearing up now for the Spring season.

Ford prepared for slow sales with Focus Electric originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford focus2012 ford focus evalan mulallyelectric carfocusfocus electricfocus evfordford focus electricford focus evmulallyThu, 19 Apr 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20217791/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/19/ford-prepared-for-slow-sales-with-focus-electric/20217791/article-detail.xml 20217791 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/focuselectricsales_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/focuselectricsales.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Focus will be first all-electric pace car in NASCAR]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/ford-focus-will-be-first-all-electric-pace-car-in-nascar/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/ford-focus-will-be-first-all-electric-pace-car-in-nascar/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/ford-focus-will-be-first-all-electric-pace-car-in-nascar/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



If you thought pacing a NASCAR race with a Ford Fiesta was an odd choice, prepare to be properly shocked. Ford has announced the company is once again heading out onto the nation's tri-ovals, this time with the Focus Electric. The automaker claims the battery-powered hatchback will be the world's first all-electric pace car when it leads the field at the Richmond 400 later this month. The public will get its first shot at seeing Focus Electric Pace Car on April 25, when Lt. Governor Bill Bolling drives the EV to Richmond International Raceway.

Earlier this year, Ford announced the Focus Electric will offer buyers a range of around 75 miles depending on driving conditions. We assume that figure will fall off precipitously at pace speed. With around 123 horsepower on hand, Ford has been quick to brag that the company's EV offers buyers more horsepower than the Nissan Leaf. Of course, at $39,200, it is also $4,000 more expensive.

Continue reading Ford Focus will be first all-electric pace car in NASCAR

Ford Focus will be first all-electric pace car in NASCAR originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric pace carfocus electricfocus electric pace carford focus electricford focus electric pace carnascarrichmond 400Mon, 16 Apr 2012 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20216531/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/16/ford-focus-will-be-first-all-electric-pace-car-in-nascar/20216531/article-detail.xml 20216531 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/focuselectric81hr-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/focuselectric81hr-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen Up! named 2012 World Car of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/volkswagen-up-named-2012-world-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/volkswagen-up-named-2012-world-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/volkswagen-up-named-2012-world-car-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,



As is tradition, Day Two of the 2012 New York Auto Show kicked off with the annual World Car of the Year awards. Global entries competed for honors in four different categories, and from the initial list of 34 contenders, the final four were selected this morning.

The big winner was the 2012 Volkswagen Up! subcompact, which takes home the honor of World Car of the Year, beating out its other finalists, the BMW 3 Series and Porsche 911. We've had a chance to drive VW's tiny runabout and, while it would be hard for the automaker to justify offering something this small in the United States (right now), we'd gladly welcome its tossable city dynamics and efficiency here on our shores. With a small bump in power, it could certainly show the Fiat 500 who's boss.

But the Up! wasn't the only car praised in New York this morning. The new 991-series Porsche 911 was named World Performance Car of the Year, besting other nominees like the Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 and McLaren MP4-12C. Stiff competition, for sure, but you just can't match the 911's razor-sharp precision, not to mention that this new 991 model is easily the best 911 yet.

Moving on to a different sort of performance, the Mercedes-Benz S250 CDI BlueEfficiency took top honors for its eco-performance, securing the World Green Car of the Year award. In this segment, the other two finalists were the Ford Focus Electric and Peugeot 3008 Hybrid greenlings.

Lastly, the WCOY jury selected the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque for the World Car Design of the Year - not really a surprise, seeing as how the baby Range Rover has been praised for its styling ever since the day it launched. Our condolences to the Citroën DS5 and Volkswagen Up! - you guys just aren't pretty enough.

Stay tuned for more details about this year's awards later today.

Full disclosure: Author is a juror and co-chair of the World Car of the Year Awards.

Volkswagen Up! named 2012 World Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 world car of the year911evoquefeaturedfocusfocus electricfordland rovernew yorknew york 2012new york auto showporscherange roverupvolkswagenwcotyworld car of the yearThu, 05 Apr 2012 09:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20209179/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/05/volkswagen-up-named-2012-world-car-of-the-year/20209179/article-detail.xml 20209179 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2012-volkswagen-up_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2012-volkswagen-up.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Focus Electric qualifies for California HOV lane access, extra $2,500 off]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/ford-focus-electric-qualifies-for-hov-lane-access-extra-2-500/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/ford-focus-electric-qualifies-for-hov-lane-access-extra-2-500/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/ford-focus-electric-qualifies-for-hov-lane-access-extra-2-500/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Ford Focus Electric in motion

Following in the footsteps of the Chevrolet Volt and the Honda Civic Natural Gas, the 105-MPGe 2012 Ford Focus Electric has been granted HOV lane access in California by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). CARB not only gave the upcoming all-electric vehicle the ability to let people drive alone in the High Occupancy Vehicle lane but also qualified it for an incentive that affords buyers an extra $2,500 off through the state's Clean Vehicle Rebate Program (CVRP).

With an official range of 76 miles, the Focus EV is what Ford calls the "most fuel-efficient five-passenger car" in the States. As it has in other marketing material, today's press release announcing the HOV designation, Ford is touting ways its car beats the Nissan Leaf (hey, it "only" gets 73 official miles, remember?), as you can read after the jump. For more on the controversial HOV lane situation in California, check out this article from AutoblogGreen contributor Chelsea Sexton.

Continue reading Ford Focus Electric qualifies for California HOV lane access, extra $2,500 off

Ford Focus Electric qualifies for California HOV lane access, extra $2,500 off originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford focus electriccalifornia air resources boardcarbfocusfocus electricfocus evfordford focus electrichigh occupancy vehiclehovhov laneMon, 12 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20191426/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/12/ford-focus-electric-qualifies-for-hov-lane-access-extra-2-500/20191426/article-detail.xml 20191426 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/ford-focus-electric-in-motion_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/ford-focus-electric-in-motion.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Focus Electric officially rated at 105 MPGe with a 76-mile range]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/02/ford-focus-electric-officially-rated-at-105-mpge-with-a-76-mile/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/02/ford-focus-electric-officially-rated-at-105-mpge-with-a-76-mile/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/02/ford-focus-electric-officially-rated-at-105-mpge-with-a-76-mile/#commentsFiled under: ,



Coming soon to select Ford dealers, at least those on the coasts, is the most efficient five-passenger car in America, the 2012 Ford Focus Electric, which the EPA has certified gets 105 miles per gallon equivalent, combined. This is better than what the Blue Oval was estimating publicly in December, when it said the all-electric Focus should get 100 MPGe. The Focus EV is also rated for 110 MPGe in the city and 99 MPGe on the highway. As you can read in the press release below, Ford is using the official numbers to go after the Nissan Leaf for the all-electric passenger car market. Ford says its new electric car:

... achieves a combined rating of 105 MPGe, topping Nissan Leaf by 6 MPGe while also offering more motor power, passenger room and standard features. Customers can make more use of this efficiency with Ford's faster charging technology that can recharge Focus Electric in about half the time of Nissan Leaf.

To compare with some other combined MPGe ratings for plug-in vehicles on the market or coming soon: the 2012 Chevrolet Volt gets 94 MPGe (one better than the 2011 model), the Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid gets 95 MPGe, the Nissan Leaf gets 99 MPGe, the Mitsubishi i is rated at 112 MPGe, and the current champion, the Tesla Roadster 2.0, officially gets 119 MPGe.

The EPA also says the Focus EV will have a range of 76 miles. As Ford is quick to point out, again, that's three miles more than the Leaf. Given the variances of EV ranges based on driving style and outside influences, those three miles won't make all that much real-world difference to most people, but it does give the engineering team one more thing to brag about.

For all the comparisons that Ford makes in today's announcement, it does leave one thing out: the Leaf's one big numerical advantage. The 2012 Leaf starts at just $35,200, while the Focus EV starts at $39,200.

Continue reading Ford Focus Electric officially rated at 105 MPGe with a 76-mile range

Ford Focus Electric officially rated at 105 MPGe with a 76-mile range originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 11:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>105 mpge110 mpge2012 ford focus electricepafocusfocus electricfocus evfocus mpgfordford evford focus electricmpgeFri, 02 Mar 2012 11:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20184453/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/02/ford-focus-electric-officially-rated-at-105-mpge-with-a-76-mile/20184453/article-detail.xml 20184453 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/12focuselectric01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/12focuselectric01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford set to double the amount of SYNC-controlled apps at CES]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/ford-set-to-double-the-amount-of-sync-controlled-apps-at-ces/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/ford-set-to-double-the-amount-of-sync-controlled-apps-at-ces/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/ford-set-to-double-the-amount-of-sync-controlled-apps-at-ces/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford Evos Concept

For the fourth year in a row, Ford is going big at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, and that includes the North American debut of the Evos concept, a new production car and even more SYNC-controlled apps.

Next week at CES, Ford will reveal the 2013 Ford Fusion, which is also set to bow halfway across the country at the Detroit Auto Show. Joining the Fusion will be the normal smattering of Mustangs and Focus sedans, hatchbacks and the all-new Electric, along with the Evos concept that debuted earlier this year. The Evos' presence is particularly important, as it outlines Ford's plan for a cloud-connected vehicle, and there's a chance we'll see those concepts evolved even further at CES.

Finally, Ford reps say they'll be doubling the amount of apps available through the automaker's SYNC infotainment system, so expect more streaming, more social and more connected apps to be available later this year.

Ford set to double the amount of SYNC-controlled apps at CES originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012evosfocus electricfordford cesford evosford focus electricford syncsyncWed, 04 Jan 2012 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20140582/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/04/ford-set-to-double-the-amount-of-sync-controlled-apps-at-ces/20140582/article-detail.xml 20140582 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ford-evos-concept-12-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ford-evos-concept-12-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Ford Focus Electric priced from $39,200*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/2012-ford-focus-electric-priced-from-39-200/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/2012-ford-focus-electric-priced-from-39-200/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/2012-ford-focus-electric-priced-from-39-200/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The 2012 Ford Focus Electric showed up on the company website's configurator this morning with a base price of $39,200 before state and federal incentives, plus an additional $795 for destination charges. That brings the total base starting price of the Focus Electric to $39,995. Factor in a maximum federal tax credit of $7,500 and the price falls to a more palatable $32,495.

For comparison's sake, the 2012 Nissan Leaf features a base starting price of $35,200 plus $850 for destination charges. Factoring in delivery fees, Ford's EV will cost $3,945 more than Nissan's before incentives.

Options that will inch up the Focus Electric's price are few, but include special Blue Candy ($395) and White Platinum ($495) paint options, as well as leather-trimmed seats ($995) to replace the car's standard Earth-friendlier cloth seats.

What you'll get for your money is Ford's fun-to-drive Focus with a permanent-magnet electric motor producing 123 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. The motor is fed by a 23 kwh lithium-ion battery system and mated to a single-speed transmission. A full charge can be had in 18-20 hours by a typical 120v outlet or 3-4 hours by a special 240v charger. While no quick charge option is available, Ford has partnered with a company called SunPower to offer a home solar charging option for an additional $10,000.

You can reserve your own 2012 Ford Focus Electric by clicking here.

2012 Ford Focus Electric priced from $39,200* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford focus electricbreakingfocusfocus electricfocus electric on salefordWed, 02 Nov 2011 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20096761/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/02/2012-ford-focus-electric-priced-from-39-200/20096761/article-detail.xml 20096761 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/focus-electric-price_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/focus-electric-price.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Focus Electric will offer solar home option]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/ford-focus-electric-will-offer-solar-home-option/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/ford-focus-electric-will-offer-solar-home-option/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/ford-focus-electric-will-offer-solar-home-option/#commentsFiled under: ,

ford sunpower graphic

Running an electric car on the power of the sun is many an EV enthusiast's dream. Ford isn't the first company to combine EV charging with solar energy, but it is trying to make it as easy as possible to go from driving on imported oil to extremely local energy.

Through a new partnership with SunPower, Ford will offer a 2.5-kilowatt rooftop solar system to people who buy the upcoming Ford Focus Electric (and, later, the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid) that should, under the right conditions, create around 3,000 kWh of electricity a year. Put one of these on your house and, Ford says, that's enough to drive 1,000 miles a month. But, you say, I like to drive during the day and so then how will my car charge? As solar advocates know, the idea here is to offset the (potentially) coal-generated electricity your car charges with at night by feeding totally clean energy into the grid during the day. Until solar panels and EVs become so efficient that cartop solar devices can power the car, this type of setup is about as clean as you can get with a "normal" car. Ford's even calling the new partnership "Drive Green for Life," which is not inappropriate. The only problem? Adding the SunPower "option" to your Focus will cost you around $10,000 (after federal tax credits).

Toyota has also worked with SunPower in the past, putting the largest single-roof solar installation in North America onto the company's North America Parts Center California.

Continue reading Ford Focus Electric will offer solar home option

Ford Focus Electric will offer solar home option originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>focus electricford focus electricford sunpowersolarsolar fordsunpowerWed, 10 Aug 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20014149/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/10/ford-focus-electric-will-offer-solar-home-option/20014149/article-detail.xml 20014149 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/fordsunpower-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/fordsunpower-630.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Focus Electric launch pushed back to Spring 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/08/ford-focus-electric-launch-pushed-back-to-spring-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/08/ford-focus-electric-launch-pushed-back-to-spring-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/08/ford-focus-electric-launch-pushed-back-to-spring-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Focus Electric ad

Want to buy a 2012 Ford Focus Electric when it hits dealer lots in late 2011? You might be out of luck. Unless, that is, you reside in New York or California, as those are reportedly the only two states that are in line to receive retail deliveries of the electrified Focus before the end of 2011.

Spring 2012 is now the official arrival time for the rest of us who live in the initial 19 markets that will get the Focus Electric. Those markets include Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Orlando, Phoenix, Portland, Raleigh Durham, Richmond, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Tucson and Washington, D.C.

David Finnegan, Ford's electrified vehicles marketing manager, is being reported saying:
For the first few months of production, we will be concentrating on California and New York. Our dealers in those areas will be the first to have their retail orders scheduled and receive the Focus Electric. We will be rolling out to the remainder of our initial markets starting in Spring 2012.
Heck, even Ford's "Go gas-free" Focus Electric promo ad reads "Coming spring 2012." It doesn't get much more official than that.

Ford Focus Electric launch pushed back to Spring 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclefocusfocus electricfocus electric delayedfordford focusford focus electricMon, 08 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20011925/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/08/ford-focus-electric-launch-pushed-back-to-spring-2012/20011925/article-detail.xml 20011925 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/fordpage-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/fordpage-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford's plan to make commutes more efficient, optimize EVs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/10/fords-plan-to-make-commutes-more-efficient-optimize-evs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/10/fords-plan-to-make-commutes-more-efficient-optimize-evs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/10/fords-plan-to-make-commutes-more-efficient-optimize-evs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Google Prediction API

Android developers across the world have descended on San Francisco for this week's Google I/O conference, and Ford is getting in on the action with its announcement to utilize Google's new Prediction API to increase efficiency and decrease commute times.

The Prediction API has a range of location-based uses, but Ford's plan involves tapping into your driving habits, gathering historical commute and errand data, and then optimize your route depending on traffic, weather and a host of other information.

Cutting down commute times and increasing fuel efficiency are at the top of the list, but it's obvious Ford is primarily planning to use the tech for its future all-electric and plug-in hybrid-driving vehicles. By determining drive routes ahead of time, storing that information in the cloud and directing drivers to the most efficient roads, Ford can eliminate some of the range anxiety EV drivers have to contend with.

Tomorrow, a group of Ford researchers will be showing off concept version of the system at Google I/O, complete with a prototype use case that involves the driver opting in for the service (Ford is adamant that personal information security is of the utmost importance) and then utilizing the Google Prediction service to determine the most efficient route. The vehicle would ask the driver, "Good morning. Are you going to work?" and if the driver responds, "Yes," the system will choose a route that's optimized for the powertrain. This could also include EV-only zones, something that's being experimented with throughout Europe.

We'll have more on Ford's implementation of the Predictive API tomorrow, but in the meantime, check out the press release after the jump for more.

Continue reading Ford's plan to make commutes more efficient, optimize EVs

Ford's plan to make commutes more efficient, optimize EVs originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 May 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>focusfocus electricfordford focus electricgooglegoogle iogoogle prediction apiTue, 10 May 2011 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19937040/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/10/fords-plan-to-make-commutes-more-efficient-optimize-evs/19937040/article-detail.xml 19937040 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/fordgooglepredictiongraphicfinal-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/fordgooglepredictiongraphicfinal-630op.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Focus Electric gets connected by AT&T]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/22/ford-focus-electric-gets-connected-by-atandt/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/22/ford-focus-electric-gets-connected-by-atandt/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/22/ford-focus-electric-gets-connected-by-atandt/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MyFord Mobile App
MyFord Mobile App for the 2012 Focus Electric - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hot on the heels of Audi's announcement to use T-Mobile for its future wireless data needs, Ford has partnered with AT&T to provide connectivity to the 2012 Focus Electric.

Nearly every EV or plug-in hybrid coming to market will offer some combination of embedded wireless data and an accompanying smartphone app, and as we saw at CES with our exclusive hands-on of MyFord Mobile, FoMoCo will be offering a similar solution for its all-electric Focus hatchback.

The partnership Ma Bell and the Blue Oval involves an embedded wireless connection in the EV that allows drivers with the MyFord Mobile app to keep track of charging, set specific times of the day to juice up (late at night when electrons are cheap) and receive a variety of notifications, ranging from battery status to maintenance reminders.

MapQuest has been tapped to provide charging station locations, range alerts, trip planning and vehicle location, and the MyFord Mobile app also includes the ability to remotely lock and unlocks doors, heat and cool the interior and download performance and system data. And if your phone doesn't have the app, you can use any HTML5-based or WAP 2.0-supported browser to keep tabs on your EV. Hit the jump for the full details and check out our write-up on MyFord Mobile.


Gallery: Hands On: MyFord Mobile App

Continue reading Ford Focus Electric gets connected by AT&T

Ford Focus Electric gets connected by AT&T originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford focus electricattfocus electricfordford attford focus electricmyfordmyford mobileTue, 22 Mar 2011 19:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19888477/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/22/ford-focus-electric-gets-connected-by-atandt/19888477/article-detail.xml 19888477 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/01-myford-mobile-hands-on-ces-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/01-myford-mobile-hands-on-ces-630op.jpg <![CDATA[CES 2011: Ford Focus Electric ready to steal the EV spotlight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/2011-ford-focus-electric-ces-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/2011-ford-focus-electric-ces-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/2011-ford-focus-electric-ces-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Focus Electric
Ford Focus Electric - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf may have stolen the show for electric vehicles in 2010, but Ford is hoping to make big waves in 2011 with its first EV passenger car, the Focus Electric. The zero-emissions Focus hatchback makes its official debut at this year's Consumer Electronics Show and Ford says the car will officially launch at the end of 2011 here in North America, with European customers expected to take delivery sometime before 2013.

Visually, the Focus Electric has an improved aerodynamics package to improve drag, incorporating a new front fascia that looks like something right out of the Aston Martin school of design. (Too bad this isn't the Cygnet, huh?) The only other major design changes are the addition of a charging port with an LED ring to the left of the driver's door and a new set of 15-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in low-rolling resistance tires. And speaking of LEDs, while the gasoline-powered Focus' LED eyebrow above the headlamp is only available in Europe, Ford tells us that the North American-spec Focus Electric will wear this bit of accent lighting when it hits production.

Continue reading...


Gallery: CES 2011: Ford Focus Electric

Ford Focus ElectricFord Focus ElectricFord Focus ElectricFord Focus ElectricFord Focus Electric

Gallery: Ford Focus Electric

Ford Focus ElectricFord Focus ElectricFord Focus ElectricFord Focus ElectricFord Focus Electric
Live photos copyright (C)2011 Damon Lavrinc / AOL

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading CES 2011: Ford Focus Electric ready to steal the EV spotlight

CES 2011: Ford Focus Electric ready to steal the EV spotlight originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ces2012 ford focus electriccesevfocusfocus electricfordFri, 07 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19787988/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/07/2011-ford-focus-electric-ces-unveiled/19787988/article-detail.xml 19787988 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/01-ford-focus-electric-ces-live-1294411049_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/01-ford-focus-electric-ces-live-1294411049.jpg <![CDATA[Ford reveals initial markets for Focus EV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/15/ford-reveals-initial-markets-for-focus-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/15/ford-reveals-initial-markets-for-focus-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/15/ford-reveals-initial-markets-for-focus-ev/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ford Focus Electric
2012 Ford Focus EV - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford is gearing up to launch the 2012 Ford Focus EV, and the automaker has selected 19 target markets for its first-ever all-electric passenger car. A press release can only reveal so much emotion, but we would like to believe the copywriters had a Howard Dean-like moment as they rattled off the markets that include 14 states and Washington, D.C.

Ford is working with local government agencies and utilities in the selected markets to help prepare for the launch of the EVs. Its efforts are focused on consumer outreach, education programs and providing information on charging needs. Ford also wants to make sure the local power grid will be able to support the increased demand caused by the vehicles.

The Focus Electric, which will reportedly have a 100-mile driving range, will go on sale towards the end of 2011. It will be produced on the same assembly line as the traditional Focus, allowing Ford to alter production based on demand. Click through to the jump to see if your state is on Ford's initial markets list.


Gallery: Jay Leno's Green Car Challenge Ford Focus


Gallery: 2012 Ford Focus

2012 Ford Focus hatchback2012 Ford Focus hatchback2012 Ford Focus hatchback2012 Ford Focus hatchback2012 Ford Focus hatchback

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford reveals initial markets for Focus EV

Ford reveals initial markets for Focus EV originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford focus2012 ford focus evelectric focuselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesevfocusfocus electricfocus evfordford evford focusford focus evMon, 15 Nov 2010 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19716974/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/15/ford-reveals-initial-markets-for-focus-ev/19716974/article-detail.xml 19716974 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/ford-focus-ev-leno-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/ford-focus-ev-leno-630.jpg -1 2