Ford cuts Focus Electric price by $6,000

Ford Motor Co. slashed the price of the Focus Electric by $6,000 to $29,995, including shipping. The price reduction, which took effect Oct. 13, remains in effect for all 2014 models and will continue when the 2015 models are introduced at the end of the year, Ford spokesman Aaron Miller said.

It marks the second time Ford has cut the price of the slow-selling Focus EV. In July 2013, Ford reduced the price by $4,000.

With a $7,500 federal tax credit thrown in, customers can now get a Focus Electric for $22,495.

"What we've been saying is the Focus Electric provides the design and engineering of world’s best-selling nameplate," said Miller. “We hope by cutting the price we give consumers another reason to consider it."

In spite of the two price cuts, demand for the vehicle remains below expectations. In the U.S., Ford has sold 1,534 Focus Electrics so far this year, an increase of 15 percent, amid a 3 percent decline in demand for all EVs, hybrids and alternative-powered light vehicles. Still, Miller said the Focus Electric is on target to surpass its best year: 1,738 vehicles in 2013.

By comparison, Nissan has sold 21,822 of its Leaf electric cars the first nine months, an increase of 36 percent. The Leaf has its own body style and dedicated platform, while the Focus Electric shares chassis and body with the gas engine Focus. The 2015 Focus will get a refresh and a new grille.

The Focus EV has an EPA-rated range of 76 miles between charges. The Focus EV was introduced late in 2011 as a 2012 model. Miller said it sells best on the West Coast.