107 MPGe combined makes the 2017 Ford Focus Electric a good choice for urban commuters. It’s a nimble, zero-emissions hatchback ideal for city streets and minimizing your carbon footprint on daily drives, not a long-range EV for cross-country trips.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the 2017 Ford Focus Electric at 118 MPGe in the city and 96 MPGe on the highway. This difference is typical for electric vehicles, which are more efficient in stop-and-go city driving because of regenerative braking. Regenerative braking captures kinetic energy during deceleration, converting it back into electricity to recharge the battery. On the highway, with less braking, the efficiency decreases slightly. Expect to see figures closer to 118 MPGe in urban environments, but outside temperatures impact these figures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford Focus Electric at $700. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average electricity cost at the time of calculation. Your actual electricity costs may vary based on your location, utility rates, and driving habits. But even with these varying expenses, many drivers find this EV cheaper to “fuel” than a comparable gasoline-powered car.

Real-world expectations

The EPA’s figures provide a solid baseline, but real-world MPGe depends on various factors. Aggressive acceleration, consistent high-speed driving, and extreme temperatures can all impact energy consumption. Like any electric vehicle, the Focus Electric’s range is reduced in cold weather due to the energy required to heat the cabin and maintain battery temperature. Most owners report achieving figures close to the EPA estimates in moderate conditions with careful driving habits. All Ford fuel economy data is provided by the EPA, which makes comparisons easier.

How it compares

Compared to other electric vehicles of its time, the 2017 Ford Focus Electric occupies a specific niche. The 2017 Nissan LEAF, for instance, offered a similar driving experience and achieved approximately 112 MPGe combined. However, the Chevy Bolt, which was also released around that time, boasts over 200 miles of range and 119MPGe. While the Bolt’s superior range and efficiency may seem appealing, the Focus Electric was priced lower, making it attractive to cost-conscious buyers with shorter commutes. Those focusing on FOCUS MPG across all years will find this generation among the most efficient.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Employ regenerative braking whenever possible. Anticipate stops and ease off the accelerator early to maximize energy recovery. The Focus Electric has a dedicated “L” (Low) gear position on the transmission which amplifies the regenerative braking effect when you lift off the accelerator. Get familiar with this feature and make it your default driving mode in city traffic.

Precondition the cabin while the vehicle is plugged in. This uses electricity from the grid to heat or cool the interior before you start driving, minimizing the drain on the battery during your trip. This is especially useful in extreme temperatures and can significantly improve range.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the motor to work harder and consuming more energy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications to extract the maximum range out of your Focus Electric.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Excess cargo increases the load on the vehicle, reducing efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need to carry to optimize your energy consumption. This applies to all cars, but is essential in an EV with a shorter range.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration. Rapid acceleration consumes a significant amount of energy in an electric vehicle. Smooth, consistent driving habits will maximize your range and get you closer to the EPA’s efficiency figures. The Focus Electric is a fun car to drive, but restraint is key for optimal efficiency.