Frequently Asked Questions on Hybrid & Electric

We are here to help you! Browse the topics below to find out answers to some of our frequently asked questions across the lifetime of your vehicle ownership. If you can't find what you are looking for, then please get in touch.

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Environment

Are electric cars efficient?​

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It’s estimated that electric cars are up to three times more efficient than their fuel-powered equivalents. This is due to electric motors being able to convert energy into motion with 90% efficiency, compared to the 30% efficiency of a conventional model.

Are electric cars better for the environment?​

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Absolutely. By choosing an all-electric car, you will be able to drive a model that produces zero CO2 emissions - i.e. you will not be polluting the environment when at the wheel. Not only that, but with some electric vehicles being charged using renewable sources, you will further be able to reduce your carbon footprint.

Are hybrid cars better for the environment?​​

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In comparison to models featuring just standard combustion engines, absolutely. The combination of electric motor and traditional engine enables you to enjoy greater fuel efficiency but also reduced CO2 emissions, thereby mitigating the effect you’re having on the environment.

What electric Ford cars are available?​​

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The Ford car lineup is committed to providing 15 fully electric models by 2022, incorporating all the key vehicles in the manufacturer’s selection such as the Ford Fiesta, Focus, and even a Mustang inspired all-electric SUV that will be arriving soon.

Does Ford have an electric vehicle​?​

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Ford has committed more than $11 billion towards the production of electric vehicles, pledging to offer 15 fully electric models by 2022. Of this 15, nine are expected to be available to purchase in 2019, with a thrilling new SUV - inspired by the iconic Mustang - arriving in 2020.

Once available, the electric vehicles from Ford will be simple to charge, with the manufacturer committed to providing some of the best solutions available. A Ford Walbox can be fitted at home enabling you to charge overnight, while public and destination charging points - of which more than 100,000 are available across Europe - provide plenty of opportunity to top up your charge. 

What is Ionity?

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A joint venture between Ford, BMW Group, Daimler and the Volkswagen Group, Ionity is a cross-Europe network for high-powered fast vehicle charging.

What is a hybrid car?​​

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A hybrid car is a vehicle that combines a traditional combustion engine with a battery-powered electric motor. The result is a more efficient drive and lower CO2 emissions.

How do hybrid cars work?​​

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Hybrid vehicles provide greater efficiency and lower emissions by combining a traditional petrol or diesel engine with a battery powered electric engine. These rechargeable batteries provide increased efficiency and enable you to burn less fuel to operate.

How far can an electric car go?​

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As electric vehicle technology becomes more and more refined, the range provided by such vehicles is continuing to increase. In the selection of electric cars being developed by Ford, you can look forward to a range of up to 370 miles from a single charge.

Are electric cars automatic or manual?​

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Unlike traditional combustion engines, electric cars do not require a traditional gearbox of any kind. As such, the smooth motoring and fixed-ratio transmissions enable you to enjoy effortless motoring that is clean and efficient.

How fast can an electric car go?​​

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The speed of an electric car is dependent upon the make and model. However, most models on the market today are comfortable reaching 90mph with a minimum of fuss.

What is regenerative breaking?​​

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Regenerative braking operates by using the electric motor as a generator, converting the energy usually lost when decelerating into energy that recharges the battery.

Are electric vehicles reliable?​

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Are electric vehicles reliable?

Yes. Electric and hybrid cars are very reliable with many boasting an impressive electric-only range. Electric and hybrid cars usually come with an information display which shows the driver exactly how much charge is left.

Charging & Battery

How long does it take to charge an electric car?​​

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Fast and rapid charging options mean you can recharge your electric car in as little as 30 minutes. Home charging is also an option and the speed will depend on the power supply and the quantity of electricity you need to charge the car’s battery.

Where can I charge my Plug-in Hybrid or All-Electric vehicle?​

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Where can I charge my Plug-in Hybrid or All-Electric vehicle?

Across the range of our All-Electric and Plug-in Hybrid vehicle portfolio, we can provide optional public Charging cables during the vehicle’s handover. This lets you charge your Ford vehicle at any of the 100,000 + (and growing) charge points across Europe, no matter their socket type. To make public Charging times even faster, optional High Powered Charging Cables are also available on our All-Electric cars and vans.

How do electric cars work?​​

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Quite simply, an electric car replaces a traditional combustion engine with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. These provide an electric current that powers the vehicle, and doesn’t require the burning of any fuels or carbon emissions. What’s more, the delivery of power is instantaneous, and you can drive without any gear changes - just smooth motoring all the way.

How do I get a better range in winter?​

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Batteries have an optimal operating temperature, and they heat and cool themselves to achieve it. They have to power everything that you switch on, so everything you do to reduce the power needed will improve your range. There are many ways you can help to maximise the range of your electric car during cold weather:

  • Pre-heat your car while it’s charging, before you leave.
  • Remove any snow so it’s not heavier than necessary.
  • Use the heated seats and steering wheel rather than heat up the entire cabin.
  • Drive economically – a steady speed that isn’t high, with gentle acceleration and braking etc.
  • Maximise the power recovered through regenerative braking by braking gradually when possible.
  • Connect your electric car to an external power source whenever it’s parked, to keep the system warm from an external source and to re-charge.

How long do electric car batteries last?​​

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Our Ford Electric vehicles are built to the same high quality standards as our conventional vehicles. That’s why we give an 8-year/100,000 miles warranty on our batteries.

Maintenance & Running Cost

How much does it cost to charge an electric car?​

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The cost to fully charge an electric car depends on the model and where you are charging. At home, a full charge will often cost approximately £8.40; at a rapid charging point, you can expect to pay approximately £6.50 for a 30-minute charge. Many public charging locations - such as workplaces and supermarkets - are often free of charge to use.

Are electric cars cheaper?​

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While the price you may pay for a new electric car may seem expensive, it actually works out far more affordable in the long run. After all, you can benefit from government grants, zero road tax, no congestion charges, no fuel costs and, with fewer mechanical components needing fixing and replacing, lower vehicle maintenance charges.

How do I install an electric car charging point?

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These are quick and easy to install, taking just a few hours. The best thing to do is to contact a certified OLEV (Office for Low-Emissions Vehicles) installer and you’ll be able to claim a government grant of £500 in the UK towards it. Choosing an installer like this will ensure your home charger is fitted to the highest safety standard.

Do electric cars need servicing?

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​Yes, electric and hybrid cars need servicing to keep them in top condition. Electric cars tend to have fewer parts, however, making servicing cheaper.​​

Do the Government offer support to electric vehicle drivers?

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Up to £3500 is available from the government’s plug-in grant incentive scheme for new electrified vehicles, and also on the installation of charging equipment. For company car drivers, All-Electric vehicles can offer attractive reductions in benefit-in-kind tax liability compared to petrol and diesel vehicles.

Vehicles with CO2 emissions of 0g per 100km qualify for a grant of 35% of the recommended retail price, up to £3,500. And your dealer will handle all the paperwork for you.

There’s also a grant of up to £500 for your Wallbox installation too, to help you get the benefit of more convenient charging at home. Claiming the grant is a simple process as well. 

What affects an electric car's range?

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Just like in petrol or diesel-fuelled cars, the range of electric vehicles can be affected by a few factors. Here are some main things to consider:

  • High speeds and heavy acceleration use more power and reduce range, so you’ll get more miles out of your potential range by travelling at a steady speed and accelerating gradually.
  • Extreme hot or cold weather conditions affect batteries and can reduce range. Heating or cooling the inside of your vehicle will also draw extra energy from your battery. We’d recommend adjusting the inside temperature of your vehicle while you’re still plugged into the charger.
  • Regenerative braking can capture and reuse more than 90% of the energy normally lost during the braking process, recharging the high-voltage battery and maximising your range. Try to predict traffic situations ahead to optimise your braking for maximum energy recuperation.