Ford Begins Production of Focus Electric in Michigan
The first all-electric Ford Focus rolls off the line at Michigan Assembly Plant, targeting over 100 MPGe and taking aim at rivals like the Nissan Leaf.
Ford has started production of the Focus Electric at its Michigan Assembly Plant, marking the company's first fully electric passenger car to enter volume production. The move puts Ford into direct competition with established battery-electric models such as the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Volt as the US market for electric vehicles begins to expand.
The Focus Electric is designed as a five-seat hatchback based on the conventional Focus platform but swaps the petrol engine for a 123-horsepower (100 kW) electric motor and a 23 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Ford claims a fuel efficiency rating of more than 100 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe), positioning it as a direct rival to the Nissan Leaf, which uses a slightly larger 24 kWh battery.
Charging and range
A key selling point for the Focus Electric is its fast-charging capability. Ford says the system can recharge the battery in around half the time required for a Nissan Leaf, provided a suitable charging station is available. This could allow drivers to double the car’s effective daily range by topping up more quickly during the day. Official range figures were not confirmed at launch, but the battery specification and efficiency target suggest a real-world range broadly in line with early rivals.
Equipment and pricing
Ford has equipped the Focus Electric with a high level of standard features to justify its price. Highlights include MyFord Touch with an 8-inch touchscreen, two configurable LCD displays for EV-specific information, a rear camera with parking sensors, HID headlamps, 17-inch aluminium wheels, and seats made from recycled materials. Connectivity is covered by the MyFord Mobile app, which allows remote monitoring and scheduling of charging, and SYNC Bluetooth with navigation and traffic services.
- MyFord Touch infotainment with 8-inch screen
- MyFord Mobile app for remote battery management
- Rear camera and parking sensors
- HID headlamps and 17-inch wheels
- Sony-branded audio system with nine speakers
At $39,200 plus a $795 destination charge, the Focus Electric is priced above the Nissan Leaf and close to the Chevrolet Volt. The Volt, a plug-in hybrid, offers extended range via a petrol engine, which may appeal to buyers concerned about charging infrastructure or range limitations. Ford’s pricing strategy appears to bank on the Focus Electric’s combination of equipment, efficiency, and faster charging to attract early adopters.
What it means for Ford and Michigan Assembly
The start of Focus Electric production signals Ford’s commitment to electrification and flexible manufacturing. The Michigan Assembly Plant, which also produces conventional and hybrid Focus models, was retooled to accommodate the electric variant on the same line. This approach allows Ford to adjust production volumes in response to demand without dedicating a separate facility.
Buyers in the US will be the first to access the Focus Electric, with availability in select markets initially. Ford has not announced plans for right-hand drive or wider international sales at this stage.
