Ford Electrification Boss Calls The Focus Electric A Compliance Car That’s “Not Too Exciting”

If you forgot that Ford makes the Focus Electric, you’re probably not alone.

While the model has been on sale for years, it never caught on with consumers and data shows the company has only sold 501 units in the United States through June. To put that number into perspective, Chevrolet managed to sell 1,161 Bolts last month alone.

There are a number of reasons why the Focus Electric isn’t flying off dealer lots and part of it is the car’s limited range. Thanks to a recent update, the model has an EPA-estimated driving range of 115 miles (185 km). That’s a big jump from the 76 mile (122 km) range on 2016 models, but it pales in comparison to newer electric vehicles such as the Bolt, Nissan Leaf and Tesla Model 3.

Despite being at a major competitive disadvantage, the Focus Electric starts at $29,120. That’s $870 less than the Leaf, but that model has a range of 151 miles (243 km).

 

 

Given the dismal sales figures, Ford has finally admitted the obvious. In a recent interview with Engadget, the company’s global director of electrification, Ted Cannis, seemingly referred to the model as a compliance car. That’s not exactly high praise, but Cannis said “there’s nothing wrong with [the] Ford Focus Electric” and stated it is “executed well.” However, he admitted it’s “not too exciting.”

That’s a bit of an understatement and Ford’s efforts to entice buyers have been somewhat laughable. Earlier this year, the company announced the 2018 Focus Electric would be offered in Outrageous Green Metallic which was described as a “unique shade, symbolizing modern renewal and a reconnection with nature.” Unsurprisingly, a new paint shade hasn’t caused a rash of Model 3 cancellations.

While the Focus Electric turned out to be a dud, the company has high hopes for the future. Cannis says the company’s upcoming EVs will be “awesome” and far more exciting than the Focus Electric.

 

Ford Electrification Boss Calls The Focus Electric A Compliance Car That’s “Not Too Exciting”

The Focus Electric was a failure but company says upcoming EVs will be “awesome”.

BMW Expects EVs Will Make Up 15-25% Of Its Sales By 2025

Consumer acceptance of EVs is climbing but BMW has no clue how popular its upcoming models will be.

UK’s ICE Ban Won’t Apply To Hybrids, Government To Test On-Street Charging Tech

The UK plans to spend $530 million to expand its charging infrastructure.

Modded Chevy Interior Goes To War With Common Sense

This is what happens when you can’t decide whether you like James Bond or The Dukes of Hazzard.

Your Brain Won’t Be Able To Comprehend The 2088 Honda CyberRace Concept

Is this what race cars from the year 2088 will look like?.

Audi SQ8 Tipped To Get Both Gasoline And Diesel Engines

The diesel model could be launched in Europe, whereas the USA might get the gasoline version.

Toyota Claims 2019 Avalon Is All About Authenticity And Excitement

Toyota’s marketing campaign for the new Avalon is about not taking life too seriously.

France Says Tariff War With U.S. Has Started, E.U. Will Respond To Attacks

If President Trump goes ahead with his threats, the E.U, will react in a coordinated manner.

Porsche Mission E Cross Turismo Expected To Launch In 2021

The Porsche Taycan will soon be joined by the shooting brake-like Cross Turismo variant.

Ford Gives Saudi Woman Activist A Free Mustang GT After Driving Ban Lifted

Lifting the ban on women driving in Saudi Arabia has opened a new market for automakers.