Ford Focus EV

[chimpanzee]

I'm leaving for CES for start of Media events (Sunday & Monday), the Exhibit & Conference Sessions are from Tue-Fri

Just got this in from CES press-release:

See why following the leader means following Ford, when you visit the Ford display at the 2012 CES. It's all here. From the totally new 2013 Fusion - the Official Car of CES - to the 2012 Focus Electric* and a wide array of smart features, Ford will showcase new technologies bound to set the pace for the automotive industry. Electrics and more. All-electric, plug-in and hybrid Ford vehicles will all be on display. So will MyFord® Mobile, the award-winning app that helps Ford Electric Vehicle drivers maximize their gasoline-free driving. Stay Connected with SYNC® with MyFord Touch®. You'll see and experience the faster, simpler, better SYNC® with MyFord Touch system. And check out SYNC AppLinkTM** - the game-changing technology that lets you use your voice to control mobile apps like Pandora®internet radio.® iHeartRadio, Stitcher Smart Radio,TM Slacker® Radio, and more to be announced at the show. Views from the top. On Wednesday, Ford CEO Alan Mulally will be among top executives gathered for an informative Innovation Power Panel discussion about integrating your digital life and your vehicle. Experience all the latest tech developments and more at the 2012 CES. CESweb.org

Ford's CEO Mulally will be giving keynote speech, he also talked at 2010 CES:

2010 CES Jan 7 - a set on Flickr

Ford is definitely doing some good things, they announced a Pandora partnership at 2010 CES. I was at the Media event for Monster Cable (CEO talking), & found myself standing next to the Pandora founder! (we exchanged business cards)

I had met Martin Eberhard for the 1st time in 27 yrs at 2009 LA Auto Show (just prior to 2010 CES on Dec/2009)

2009 LA Auto Show: M. Eberhard @Chevrolet Booth [ '09 LA Auto Show, 12/2 ]

& also got a ride in the Ford Focus EV (prototype) there, will upload the video soon (interview of driver while on demo ride).

The integration of electronics (Bluetooth, Wireless, etc) into modern cars, not just Drivetrain "drive by wire" (e.g. PEM/Power Electronics Module in Tesla Roadster), is an interesting component of what I call "Smart Cars". Not just Alternative Transportation (electric, hydrogen, clean diesel, etc), but Immersive Technology. The latter is a field in Computer Science.

[AnOutsider]

Ask about range! This and the Tesla booth are on my list (and the goody-bag booths of course!)

[EVNow]

If they have a Ford Energi - can you grab a photo of the back seat & cargo area ? They have been trying to keep that under the wrap for a long time now ...

[TEG]

At the Silicon Valley auto show they had the Focus EV and Transit Connect EV on display.
I sat in both, but the hoods were locked so you couldn't look at the e-Drivetrain.
2012 Silicon Valley International Auto Show - General Info

CODA was also there... No Tesla though.

[KBF]

I haven't seen many people talk about the Ford Focus EV. Wikipedia has an article as well. Has anyone seen these cars in the wild? Are they actually being delivered or are there delays? Any opinions on it?

[Rifleman]

The few reviews I have read on it are positive, but underwhelmed. The price point is higher than the leaf, for a vehicle with essentially the same capabilities. If it was 5K cheaper, or has 20-30 miles additional range, it would be a fairly compelling vehicle.

[doug]

Merged with existing thread. See also this thread: Ford EVs by 2012

[EVNow]

The few reviews I have read on it are positive, but underwhelmed.

Where are the reviews ? Ford hasn't even let any journalist drive the car yet ...

[Mycroft]

Where are the reviews ? Ford hasn't even let any journalist drive the car yet ...

To be fair, neither has Tesla.

[Rifleman]

Where are the reviews ? Ford hasn't even let any journalist drive the car yet ...

I read one or two of them online a few weeks ago, as I recall they were non-driving reviews, just based off of sitting in the car, and giving a general impression. I will see if I can find them again to post them here for everyone to check out.