Ford Focus Electric 33 kWh

Overview

This all-electric Ford Focus, specifically the updated 33 kWh version, offered a more practical entry into the EV world for hatchback lovers. While discontinued, it represented Ford's early efforts to electrify a popular nameplate. With its familiar Focus driving dynamics and a now more usable battery pack compared to its predecessor, it became a more sensible, albeit still modest, electric runabout. On the used market, you might snag one for around €10,999 in Europe. It’s a solid choice for city commutes, blending everyday practicality with zero tailpipe emissions, though its range won't be breaking any records.

What's New for 2018?

For 2018, the Ford Focus Electric pretty much carried over the significant upgrade it received in 2017: the beefier 33.5 kWh (31.8 kWh usable) battery pack. This was a game-changer compared to the original's paltry 23 kWh unit, giving it a much-needed range boost and making it a more viable daily driver. Alongside this, DC fast charging capability via a CCS Type 2 port became standard in Europe, drastically cutting down those pesky charging times on longer jaunts. Otherwise, it remained the familiar, competent electric hatchback from the previous model year.

Design & Exterior

The 2018 Focus Electric 33 kWh keeps the familiar, sharp looks of its petrol-powered sibling, but with a few EV-specific tweaks. You'll spot a unique front grille design, often smoother for better aero, and discreet 'Electric' badging. The charge port is neatly integrated, and it typically rolled on eco-focused alloy wheels. It’s a proper hatchback measuring 4392 mm long, 1882 mm wide (excluding mirrors), and 1478 mm tall, making it perfectly sized for nipping through city streets or squeezing into tight parking spots. It’s understated EV styling for those who prefer to fly under the radar.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the Focus Electric 33 kWh offers a cabin that’s very... Focus. Decent materials and a user-friendly layout make it a comfortable place for its 5 occupants. Tech-wise, it usually came equipped with Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, often including an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto – pretty slick for its time! Luggage space is a bit compromised by the battery, offering 237 litres in the boot, expanding to a useful 1125 litres with the rear seats folded. Unfortunately, there’s no frunk for your charging cables, a common miss back then.

Performance & Driving Experience

Don't expect Tesla-baiting acceleration, but the Focus Electric 33 kWh scoots from 0-100 km/h in a respectable 11.4 seconds, thanks to its 107 kW, 250 Nm PMSM motor driving the front wheels. Top speed is capped at 135 km/h. The driving experience is classic Focus: agile handling and a comfortable ride, now with the added bonus of silent, smooth electric power. Regenerative braking helps recoup some energy, though it might not offer full one-pedal driving. It's a chilled and refined way to get about town, making urban driving a doddle.

Range, Battery & Charging

The heart of this Focus is its 31.8 kWh usable battery, delivering a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of around 172 km – enough for daily duties. It sips energy at a rate of 5.41 km/kWh. Topping up at home via its standard 6.6 kW AC on-board charger (CCS Type 2 port) takes about 5 hours for a full charge. Out and about, DC fast charging at up to 50 kW can juice it up significantly quicker, getting you back on the road for those slightly longer trips. No fancy V2L here, though.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety-wise, the Ford Focus platform on which this EV is based generally scored well, with data indicating a 5-star Euro NCAP rating for the wider range. The Electric version typically came with essential safety kit like multiple airbags and stability control. Driver-assistance features often included a rearview camera and rear parking sensors as standard for this trim. More advanced systems like automatic emergency braking or blind-spot monitoring might have been part of optional packages, so check the spec of any used model carefully. It’s a reassuringly safe way to travel electrically.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

When new, Ford typically offered a standard vehicle warranty in Europe, often around 2 years with unlimited kilometres. Crucially for an EV, the battery pack and electric drive components usually received extended coverage, commonly 8 years or 160,000 km for the battery, often with a 70% capacity guarantee. Powertrain components might have had around 5 years/100,000 km. Maintenance is generally simpler and cheaper than its petrol cousins, with fewer moving parts to worry about. Reliability has been decent, but it's always wise to check the battery health on any used example.