Ford’s first all-electric vehicle, the 2013 Ford Focus Electric, received an overall five-star score in the NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program (NCAP), which combines performance in front- and side-impact crash tests and rollover resistance.
Along with airbags tailored to deploy for individual occupants, the 2013 Focus Electric has a driver’s airbag that uses a reconfigured curve-shaped tether system that pulls the lower section, creating a “pocket” that helps to lessen airbag impact on the driver’s chest and ribs for frontal crashes.
“As more people shop for electrified vehicles, the Focus Electric now offers both a top vehicle safety rating from NHTSA and a faster-charging technology that allows it to fully recharge in three to four hours,” said Steve Kenner, global director of the Ford Automotive Safety Office. The Focus Electric also has side airbags featuring shoulder vents that stay open to reduce pressure for smaller occupants.
Ford will soon certify 900 dealers to sell the plug-in vehicles, compared to the 67 that were certified in February 2012. With the spike in electric vehicles, Ford’s share of the electric market is second only to Toyota.
Source: Ford
Most Active