Ford hopes the battery quick charge time and range of standard features on its 2012 Focus Electric model will attract buyers. The base version sticker price is $39,200 plus destination charge, and buyers will qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit. Ford claims the Focus Electric can recharge in half the time as the Nissan Leaf.
Carmakers often fail to mention increased security risks that accompany wireless access to automotive systems. Wireless connections are susceptible to hackers, opening the door to multiple potential problems. The growing popularity of wireless options in vehicles means consumers must have basic knowledge about their security concerns.
The Ford Crown Victoria has been a staple for years, commonly seen as taxi cabs and police cars. It will be one of 14 cars being retired at the end of this year, along with other well-known models like the Buick Lucerne, Cadillac DTS and STS, Dodge Dakota, Ford Ranger, Honda Element, and Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Contracts between some municipalities and vendors who provide red-light cameras split ticket revenue 50/50. Red-light cameras are one answer to raising revenue. However, some regions are becoming more aware of the pitfalls of contracting out red light tickets and have issued bans on the cameras.
ALG's latest Perceived Quality Study shows Ford, Kia, and Hyundai have the biggest long-term gains in improved brand perception, and Toyota's quality score rose more than two percent over the last six months. The complete list with scores and details is available at: https://www.alg.com/pdf/pqs_fall_2011.pdf.