The 2013 model-year Ford Focus Electric has earned a top vehicle safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Focus Electric, Ford’s first all-electric passenger vehicle, earned a five-star Overall Vehicle Score in NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) testing, which combines vehicle performance in frontal and side-impact crash tests and resistance to rollover.

“As more people shop for electrified vehicles, the Focus Electric now offers both a top vehicle safety rating from NHTSA and a faster-charging technology that allows it to fully recharge in three to four hours,” said Steve Kenner, global director of the Ford Automotive Safety Office.

Focus Electric features front and side airbag technologies to tailor deployment to individual occupants. The driver’s airbag uses a reconfigured curve-shaped tether system that pulls in the lower section to create a “pocket” to help lessen the impact of the airbag on the driver’s chest and ribs in frontal crashes. Side airbags feature unique shoulder vents that stay open and reduce pressure for smaller occupants who typically benefit from reduced forces. 

Ford just announced that more than 900 Ford dealers will soon be certified to sell plug-in electrified vehicles, including Focus Electric, up from 67 dealers in February 2012. The spike in electric vehicle-certified Ford dealers reflects increased demand for the company’s electrified vehicles. Ford’s share of the electrified vehicle market is now second behind only Toyota.

Focus Electric safety and security features include:

• AdvanceTrac with electronic stability control

• Dual-stage front airbags

• Front seat side airbags

• Side-curtain airbags

• Four-wheel anti-lock braking system

• LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether Anchors for Children)

• Anti-theft engine immobilizer.

The 2013 Ford Focus earned a NHTSA five-star Overall Vehicle Score as well.