2011 Ford Focus - European model

2011 Ford Focus - European model

Yesterday, Ford announced that they would be investing $550 Million to transform its Michigan Assembly Plant to build the next-generation Ford Focus as their next global small car. The plant that is to get this complete make over is one of three light truck plants that Ford will retool to build what they are calling, “fuel-efficient global small cars.” This particular plant used to be a production site for the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator. So what does this all mean? Lets break it down.

This news from the Ford Motor Company allows for us in the media and the consumer market to see that the company is taking steps to actually meet the promises it has been making over the last couple years. The retooling of the Michigan plant is supposed to support 3,200 new jobs and Ford says that this will also help the company “meet its promise of delivering four new electric vehicles in the U.S. by 2012.” Which brings us to the redesign of the Ford Focus for 2011.

Ford EV

Ford EV

Currently, the new 2011 Ford Focus is being developed in Europe and is based on the new global C-car platform. A platform that is supposed to be the basis for more than 2 million units annually around the world—this includes the new Ford Focus and other derivatives. Even better is the planned All-Electric Zero Emissions Focus that is being developed via a partnership with Magna International. The battery-electric vehicle will be powered by a high-voltage electric motor that is coupled to a Lithium Ion battery pack. Charging the vehicle will be accomplished via a 110-volt or 220-volt outlet. Specifics on power, charge time and range are still to come. 

Bottom line—The Ford Motor Company is making an effort to show follow through on their promises and balance out their product offerings from the past SUV and Truck heavy strategy.

  

 

Still have an appetite for Ford news? Then check out our other coverage of Ford including the Ford Focus All-Electric Mule Test Drive and the Focus MyKey Test Drive. Also, for all you families out there, check out our partner site dedicated to everything and anything to do with families and cars at FamilyCarGuide.com.