2012 Ford Focus Electric: 2011 Detroit Auto Show

Just the Facts:

Ford unveils its first.

The Focus Electric is one of five new electric vehicles due from Ford by 2013.

It can be fully charged in half the time of the Nissan Leaf.

DETROIT — Ford's new Focus Electric, built in Michigan and on sale in late 2011, is the latest entry in the company's growing stable battery-powered vehicles. Ford said the Focus Electric, on display next week at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show, will have a mileage-equivalency rating that's one mile per gallon better than the Chevrolet Volt, and its lithium-ion battery pack can be charged in half the time required by the Nissan Leaf.

Clearly aimed at younger, tech-savvy buyers, the five-door hatchback will come with a "driver information suite" that bundles a special version of MyFord Touch along with MyFord Mobile, a new smartphone app that enables owners to monitor vehicle functions and settings while on the go.

The Focus Electric also will come with a 120-volt "convenience cord" for charging at any standard outlet. An extra-cost item is the 240-volt wall-mounted home charging station that enables the Focus Electric to be fully charged in three to fours.

The electric motor will enable a top speed of 84 miles per hour.

Among the standard features on the Focus Electric are electronic traction control, six airbags, hands-free telephone connectivity, pushbutton start, 17-inch alloy wheels, Sony audio system with CD and MP3 player, Sirius satellite radio with Travel Link and voice-activated navigation.

Both the gasoline and electric versions of the 2012 Focus for North America will be assembled at Ford's Wayne plant in Michigan.