Don Chalmers Ford, a leading Albuquerque, NM Ford dealer, is excited to show customers how the Focus Electric will stay cool during the hot summer months.
Albuquerque, NM -- (SBWIRE) --06/29/2011 -- Don Chalmers Ford knows that when the weather heats up in Albuquerque, people have all sorts of ways to cool down. Ford will offer them one more way with the development of a system that cools the lithium-ion battery in the all-new Focus Electric.
The batteries in electric vehicles are designed to operate under a range of ambient conditions. Extreme temperatures can affect an electric vehicle’s battery performance by reducing its overall range. That is why Ford will use an advanced active liquid-cooling and heating system to regulate the temperature of the lithium-ion battery packs in the Focus Electric.
"If the battery became too hot, we would have to limit the use of energy to protect it. The liquid cooled system allows us to reduce those constraints and get the most out of the battery," said Dave Fabricatore, Thermal Program Management team engineer. "We're helping owners by making sure their battery is always ready to go regardless of the weather.”
The Focus Electric will use an integrated cooling system to keep the different systems in the vehicle at optimal operating temperatures. The air conditioning system is used to refrigerate the coolant going to the battery. Temperature sensors placed throughout the entire car let the cooling system know when it needs to kick into action; even when the car is charging to help reduce charge time in hot climates.
Electrification is an important piece to Ford’s overall product sustainability strategy. Ford will launch a total of five electric vehicles in the U.S. by 2012. Don Chalmers Ford is excited to offer these eco-friendly vehicles to Albuquerque customers. Visit Don Chalmers Ford online to view their current fuel efficient models at http://www.donchalmersford.com/NewFordCars.aspx.
About Don Chalmers Ford
Don Chalmers Ford is proud to serve the Albuquerque, New Mexico area. Carrying a full line of new and used Ford cars, Don Chalmers Ford offers the best selection when it comes to purchasing a vehicle. The knowledgeable service department at Don Chalmers Ford is prepared to assist with repairs and routine maintenance and the Parts Department offers one-stop shopping on a full selection of Ford parts and accessories. Don Chalmers Ford is Albuquerque’s community minded Ford dealer!