ELECTRIC VEHICLE USE - FORD FOCUS
The Lab’s current fleet contains some battery electric and hybrid vehicles which have some differences in operation from standard non-electric vehicles that drivers should be aware of.
- Reading Battery Range. (Note: driving style, use of heater, AC, radio, etc. impact range.) Plan routes carefully and mileage
BEFORE DRIVING
- Unplug the charger from the vehicle (leave the charger safely on the ground or in wall holster).
- Position key in close proximity with you (make sure the key is inside the vehicle). Push and hold start/stop button while stepping on/holding the brake pedal until the engine starts.
- Vehicle is now ready to be driven.
AFTER DRIVING
- Shift into PARK. Press the engine start/stop button to shut the engine off completely. Apply the parking brake and lock the vehicle. MAKE SURE THE ENGINE IS OFF BEFORE GETTING OUT OF THE VEHICLE.
- Charge vehicle at the electrical outlet after use. Open the charge port (front left fender) and insert charger. If properly plugged in, you should see the lightbar in this area blinking, indicating charging activity. IMPORTANT: Make sure that the charger is tightly latched to the charge port with no gaps.
- Be sure vehicle is locked and key is secure.
SAFETY-RELATED ITEMS TO BE AWARE OF:
- Dash display poses a potential distraction for the driver.
- Walking hazards, pedestrians cannot hear the approaching vehicle. Be cognizant of distracted pedestrians.
- If you don’t feel confident in the vehicle or have questions about the technology read the Drivers Manual in the glove compartment.
- Keep the EV battery charge whenever possible based on driving habits.
- Extend the life of the battery by keeping the vehicle plugged while not in use
- Plan your trip accordingly if miles exceed battery capacity.
- Charging an electric vehicle that take hours, depending on the level of the charging station and vehicle ranges should be taken into consideration
Range & Charging Times | All Electric Range / Total | Level 1 / 120V Recharge Time | Level 2 / 240 V Recharge Time |
2018 Ford Focus | ~115 miles (Affected by various conditions, AC, speed, temperature, etc.) | 30 hours | 5.5 hours |
Level 1 2-5 miles of range per hour of charging 120V charging, 7-21 hours for full charge. Charging cord provided standard with vehicle. | Level 2 10-20 miles of range per hour of charging 240V charging, 2-10 hours for full charge |
Learn more about Electric Vehicles and LBNL's electric vehicle charging here.