We are accelerating nicely up to about 40 mph and I am impressed with the amount
of torque for such a tiny engine in a relatively heavy car. I feel uneasy,
wonder why and then realize I am waiting for the engine to shift. I question Ron
again and he explains that the single speed transaxle has a gear ratio of
10:1—engineer-speak that means the car doesn’t shift. One gear does all the work
regardless of speed and even in reverse.
By the second turn of our city-block loop, I’m getting used to the Focus FCV’s
quirks and the lack of engine noises and feedback in the brake pedal don’t feel
so odd. At our last turn, I hurriedly ask Ron if we can take one more spin. He
nods and I continue past the parking lot entrance for another loop around the
block. This time I drive a bit more aggressively and feel comfortable about
pulling out into normally spaced traffic. Halfway around the block, I decide to
see what happens when I step on the accelerator harder—as if I’m entering a
highway. The Focus FCV responds well, although I keep listening for the sound of
shifting gears and, when they don’t, I find it a bit odd.
I round the next corner, thinking that the future looks promising. This is a
practical car of decent size and despite its idiosyncrasies; I could drive this,
as is, as a commuter car and be satisfied. With the improvements planned for the
production version less brake pedal feedback, improved performance due to the
use of some aluminum body panels and increased trunk space, I’d be even happier.
Darn good thing, too, because three years isn’t that far away.
Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek
Palestinian State
Ukraine, Kiev
Detroit, Michigan
Boise, Idaho
Somalia, Mogadishu
Arvada Colorado USA,
Palau, Koror
Switzerland, Bern
As Sur, United Arab Emirates, As Sur, UAE
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