The Ford Focus Electric, a fully electric version of the popular Ford Focus, offered a glimpse into the electric vehicle market during its production run. Understanding the differences between model years is crucial for potential buyers looking for a reliable and cost-effective EV option. This guide will delve into the best and worst years of the Ford Focus Electric, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
Ford Focus Electric: Model Year Comparison
| Model Year | Key Strengths | Potential Weaknesses & Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Early adopter advantage, Relatively low price on the used market. | Limited range (76 miles), Slower charging speeds (Level 2 charging only), First model year potential reliability quirks, Battery degradation concerns due to age. |
| 2013 | Minor software improvements over 2012, Still relatively affordable. | Same limited range (76 miles) as 2012, Slower charging speeds (Level 2 charging only), Continued battery degradation concerns. |
| 2014 | No major changes from previous years. | Same limited range (76 miles) as 2012/2013, Slower charging speeds (Level 2 charging only), Continued battery degradation concerns. Potential for high mileage and wear. |
| 2015 | Introduction of standard DC fast charging (SAE Combo), Faster charging times compared to previous years. | Range still limited (76 miles), Battery degradation concerns, Potential for high mileage and wear. |
| 2016 | Minor interior updates, Improved infotainment system. | Range still limited (76 miles), Battery degradation concerns, Potential for high mileage and wear. |
| 2017 | Significantly improved range (115 miles), Faster charging times due to more efficient charging system, Most desirable year for overall performance and value. | Higher price on the used market compared to earlier years, Battery degradation still a factor to consider, Potential for high mileage and wear. |
| 2018 | Last production year, Similar performance to 2017. | Higher price on the used market, Battery degradation still a factor to consider, Potential for high mileage and wear. |
Detailed Explanations
2012: As the inaugural model year, the 2012 Ford Focus Electric represents an entry point into the EV world at a potentially lower price point. However, it's important to be aware that this model suffers from a limited range of only 76 miles and relies solely on Level 2 charging, making longer trips and quick charging less convenient. Furthermore, due to its age, battery degradation is a significant concern, and potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the battery's health.
2013: The 2013 Ford Focus Electric is largely similar to the 2012 model, offering only minor software refinements. It inherits the same range limitations (76 miles) and Level 2 charging dependency. The battery degradation concerns persist, and prospective buyers should exercise caution and prioritize battery health assessment.
2014: The 2014 Ford Focus Electric offers no significant updates compared to the previous two years. It shares the same 76-mile range, Level 2 charging limitation, and battery degradation concerns. Due to its age, these models likely have accumulated significant mileage, potentially increasing the risk of wear and tear on various components.
2015: A noteworthy upgrade arrived in 2015 with the introduction of standard DC fast charging (SAE Combo). This allows for significantly faster charging times compared to previous models, making it a more practical option for those who need to quickly replenish the battery. However, the range remains at 76 miles, and battery degradation remains a concern.
2016: The 2016 Ford Focus Electric brought minor interior updates and an improved infotainment system, enhancing the overall driving experience. Despite these improvements, the range remains unchanged at 76 miles, and battery degradation continues to be a crucial factor to consider when evaluating this model year.
2017: The 2017 Ford Focus Electric marks a significant leap forward with a substantial increase in range to 115 miles. This improvement, combined with a more efficient charging system, makes it a vastly more practical and desirable EV option. While prices on the used market are higher compared to earlier years, the extended range often justifies the added cost.
2018: As the final production year, the 2018 Ford Focus Electric offers similar performance and features to the 2017 model. It benefits from the increased range (115 miles) and improved charging system introduced in 2017. However, being the newest model year, it typically commands a higher price on the used market.
Limited Range: The earlier models (2012-2016) of the Ford Focus Electric suffer from a significantly limited range of only 76 miles. This can be a major drawback for those who require longer commutes or frequently travel beyond city limits.
Slower Charging Speeds (Level 2 Charging Only): The 2012-2014 models are limited to Level 2 charging, which can take several hours to fully replenish the battery. This can be inconvenient for those who need to quickly charge their vehicle.
DC Fast Charging (SAE Combo): The introduction of DC fast charging in 2015 (standard) and retained in 2017/2018 models significantly reduces charging times. This allows drivers to add a substantial amount of range in a relatively short period.
Battery Degradation Concerns: Battery degradation is a natural process that occurs over time in electric vehicles. The older the vehicle, the more likely it is that the battery's capacity has diminished, resulting in a reduced range. Thoroughly inspecting the battery's health is crucial when considering a used Ford Focus Electric.
Improved Infotainment System: The 2016 model year saw improvements in the infotainment system, offering a more user-friendly and modern experience. This can be a significant factor for those who prioritize in-car technology.
Significantly Improved Range (115 Miles): The 2017 and 2018 models boast a significantly improved range of 115 miles, making them much more practical for a wider range of driving needs. This extended range is a major selling point for these model years.
Overall Performance and Value: Considering the combination of range, charging speed, and reliability, the 2017 Ford Focus Electric generally offers the best overall performance and value for money on the used market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the range of the Ford Focus Electric? The range varies by model year. 2012-2016 models have a range of 76 miles, while 2017-2018 models have a range of 115 miles.
Does the Ford Focus Electric have fast charging? The 2015-2018 models are equipped with DC fast charging (SAE Combo), allowing for faster charging times. Earlier models (2012-2014) only support Level 2 charging.
How long does it take to charge the Ford Focus Electric? Charging time depends on the charging level and the model year. Level 2 charging can take several hours, while DC fast charging can replenish the battery to 80% in around 30-40 minutes on the 2015-2018 models.
What should I look for when buying a used Ford Focus Electric? Pay close attention to battery health and potential degradation, check the vehicle's maintenance history, and consider the model year's range and charging capabilities.
Is the Ford Focus Electric a reliable car? Reliability can vary depending on the model year and how well the vehicle was maintained. Research common issues for each model year and get a pre-purchase inspection.
Conclusion
Choosing the right year for a used Ford Focus Electric depends on your individual needs and budget. While the earlier models (2012-2016) offer affordability, their limited range and slower charging speeds may not be suitable for everyone. The 2017 and 2018 models, with their significantly improved range and faster charging, represent the best overall choice for those seeking a more practical and capable electric vehicle.