Ford Focus Electric Hatchback Will Cost $39,995

On Tuesday, Ford announced pricing and began taking orders for its 2012 Ford Focus Electric hatchback. The vehicle will cost $39,995, including destination charge. That puts it on par with the Chevrolet Volt, which saw a price reduction in June from $41,000, and $3,900 more than the base Nissan Leaf. Those prices do not include a $7,500 federal tax rebate, for which all three vehicles are eligible.

Some details of the vehicle remain unreleased: Ford has yet to officially state its estimated range, for example, though the manufacturer says it will be comparable to competing vehicles. Some known specs are less than impressive. Top speed for the hatchback EV, which is powered by a 92-kilowatt electric motor putting out the rough equivalent of 123 horsepower, is a mere 84 mph; in addition, the vehicle is not compatible with DC fast chargers, though it can re-juice using an optional 240-volt charger in "just over three hours," according to Ford.

Ford will roll out the Focus Electric next year, first in California, New Jersey and New York, with other markets following shortly thereafter.

[Source: Wheels.]

Import From: http://editorial.autos.msn.com/blogs/autosblogpost.aspx?post=61643df7-2c0a-4aed-b4d1-54cf08733d8f