The development is part of the “Drive Green for Life” program and offers a 2.5 kW rooftop solar system, including SunPower E18 Series solar panels that produce an average of 3,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually.
These efficient solar panels should offer around 50 percent more electricity compared to conventional panels, as well as use a smaller roof area. The system was designed to cater to the needs of a customer who drives about 1,000 miles (1,600 km) each month.
"Under the 'Drive Green for Life' program, Focus Electric owners can reduce their total cost of ownership by generating enough energy from their high efficiency SunPower rooftop solar system to offset the electricity required to charge the vehicle at night," said Mike Tinskey, Ford director of Global Vehicle Electrification and Infrastructure. "It's an eco-friendly solution that perfectly complements our plug-in products and other green initiatives."
The SunPower solar system is priced at around $10,000 after federal tax credits and the company claims that other incentives, such as local and state rebates, could bring the price lower.
The system is not only compatible with the Focus Electric, but also with the C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, which will hit the market in 2012.
"SunPower's innovative partnership with Ford is a win-win for customers, providing a comprehensive sustainability program," said Tom Werner, SunPower president and CEO.
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