Archive for the ‘Focus EV’ Category

A couple of weeks ago, Fisker gleefully announced fuel efficiency stats for its upcoming extended-range Karma sedan (67 mpg, though the math is a little fuzzy).  Now the upstart automaker has another reason to celebrate: the U.S. Department of Energy has awarded Fisker a $529 million low-interest loan, which will help the company develop the $87,000 Karma and the upcoming Nina, a lower-priced sedan that will ring in around $45,000.

Roughly $169 million of Fisker's loan will be applied toward development of the Fisker Karma. Those funds will go toward the design of tools, equipment for manufacturing, and coordination of materials from U.S....

We've mentioned that Jay Leno will use a specially built all-electric Ford Focus during his new show's "Green Car Challenge" segment. We've mentioned that Tom Cruise has already taken a spin in that vehicle and asked for a second lap. And now we're happy to announce that the show's first featured driver will be none other than roller derby enthusiast/former firestarter, Drew Barrymore. We thought you'd like to know. We now return to your regularly scheduled Frankfurt Auto Show news. [egmCarTech]

The Jay Leno Comedy Show doesn't debut until next week, but details have already emerged about the program's "Green Car Challenge" (an eco-friendly version of Top Gear's "Star in a Reasonably Priced Car" segment). Apparently, the vehicle that Tom Cruise and others will be driving is a very special battery electric version of the Ford Focus, built by Ford's hybrid and battery EV program in conjunction with Ford Racing. Sounds like a great set-up for the real thing. [Jalopnik]