New Battery-powered Models From Ford, Volvo Under Trial

The Volvo C30 and the battery-powered versions of the Ford Focus are in focus

Ford and Volvo are revealing experimental cars based on mainstream models. The move is in line with the industry trend wherein automakers across the globe are emphasizing on electrically powered vehicles, reported PAISLEY Daily Express.co.uk.

Further, the Volvo C30 and the battery-powered versions of the Ford Focus are expected to undergo trials. In a study jointly run by Scottish and Southern Engery and Strathclyde University in Hillingdon, London, Ford would use a fleet of 15 Focus Battery Electric Vehicles. The focus of the trials would be to establish the viability the cars and roadside charging points which will be installed around Hillingdon.

Both the Volvo C30 and the Ford Focus are zero emission cars powered by electric motors driven from lithium ion batteries. Both the models can be recharged from the mains in around eight hours at an estimated cost of around 60 pence. The Focus BEV has a speed of 85mph and a range of 75 miles while the Volvo can manage 93 miles between charges and has a top speed of 80mph.

The Swedish car maker has already announced a low emission C30 powered by a conventional 1.6-litre diesel engine with a carbon dioxide output of 99g/km, making it exempted from current road tax charges. Driven either as an electric vehicle or a longer range hybrid, a plug-in hybrid C30, is scheduled for production by 2012.

John Fleming, chief executive of Ford of Europe, said: 'We are looking forward to working with the various project partners on developing a realistic solution and viable market for electric vehicles both in the UK and Europe.