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Ford has just launched the online configurator for its new 2012 Focus Electric – the full-electric version of its redesigned Focus five-door hatch, giving us some insight into both pricing and available options for Ford’s C-segment electric hatchback.
Once destination charges are added in, the Focus EV matches the 2011 Chevrolet Volt’s $39,995 price tag. However, it’s important to note GM made navigation and the Bose audio system optional for 2012 on the Volt, lowering its entry price entry to entice more buyers. The Nissan Leaf comes in below the Focus, as the SV starts at $36,050, and the SL model begins at $38,100. All prices are do not include any federal and/or local tax rebates.
The Focus EV comes in one flavor and includes the latest and greatest of Ford’s technology and convenience features, including a Sony audio system with HD radio and SYNC with MyFord Touch and navigation. Six paint choices are optional; two colors, Candy Blue and White Platinum, are extra-cost, and tack on $395 and $495, respectively. Cloth seats are standard, and leather is an additional $995. Tick the right boxes, and Focus Electric pricing can rise up to $41,485.
Adding a comparable Bose audio system and navigation with back up camera brings the 2012 Volt up to $43,180 – $3185 more than the Focus EV. Adding special paint and leather to both cars can add another $999 to the price spread. The Leaf includes premium audio and navigation in its base SV package, which undercuts the Focus EV by $3945.
Nissan claims the Leaf can go 100 miles on a single charge. The Volt is capable of 35-40 miles per electric charge and the gasoline engine can extend the range up to 407 miles. Ford claims the Focus EV can go up to 100 miles per charge, although EPA figures are still pending.
After breaking down the numbers a couple of questions come to mind: Is the traditional-bodied Focus Electric worth more than the funky-looking Leaf for the same estimated range? Is the (slightly) cheaper Focus Electric better value than the Volt (when comparably-equipped) or does its range extender justify its higher cost?
Source: Ford
This past weekend I was at the Green Festival in Los Angeles. Ford had the Ford Focus Electric there and I had a chance to look and sit in it. They still did not have the price out yet so to now hear that it is prices at $40K was a bit shocking to me. I would definitely go with the Nissan Leaf and save thousands. The Nissan Leaf is much roomier. I am 6’3″ and I fit in the Leaf with room to spare. I sat in the back seat in the Ford electric and could not extend my head without hitting the roof. Also leg room was much more cramped in the Ford. Quite surprised at $40K for this car. In the future I will buy an electric car but the prices have to come down to make this a mass market car.
The regular Focus is the most expensive car in the segment, so you shouldn’t be surprised. The new Mitsubishi electric is cheaper than the Leaf by thousands as well.
Of course, these prices are high because there are government incentives.
You can’t just put Aston grill and call it Ford. What a rip off…
Is a grille the only thing that makes an Aston? I’d wager not…