Ford is planing a new battery-electric version of the Focus for the North American market in conjunction with battery maker Magna, slated to debut in 2011.
“In the worst of times worldwide, we’re here today to celebrate a plan to profitably grow Ford,” CEO Alan Mulally said. “We’re fighting for the soul of manufacturing in the United States of America and worldwide.”
The battery-electric Focus will run up to 100 miles without using gas or emitting greenhouse gas.
“We’re building the highest tech vehicle in our fleet here in Michigan,” Chairman Bill Ford Jr. said. “It going to be a critical step toward the commercialization and ultimately the acceptance of electric vehicles.”
In addition to the battery-electric Focus, the Ford is working with Smith Electric to sell a battery electric commercial vehicle for North America in 2010, the Transit Connect. It also plans to introduce in 2012 a next-generation hybrid vehicle and a plug-in hybrid vehicle.
