The all-electric Explorer is an entirely novel creation, unlike its US-spec Explorer or its plug-in hybrid variant offered in a handful of European markets. Specifically tailored for the European audience, the Explorer EV represents Ford’s debut model that leverages the Volkswagen Group’s renowned MEB architecture.
The Blue Oval’s inaugural all-electric passenger vehicle is constructed in Europe at Ford’s new EV manufacturing facility in Cologne, Germany. This two-row mid-size crossover, measuring just shy of 177.1 inches (4.5 meters) in length, bears a resemblance to its underpinnings mate – the Volkswagen ID.4.
Fitted with room for five passengers, the Explorer EV is slated to carry a starting price that is under $48,300 (€45,000) when bookings open later in the year across Europe. This will put it in stark contrast to its pricier sibling, the Mustang Mach-E, which sets customers back a hefty $67,600 (€62,900) in Germany. Interestingly, the Explorer EV will offer two well-equipped versions, with customers given a choice between the Explorer and Explorer Premium trims.
Exterior
Ford proudly proclaims that the all-electric Explorer is a harmonious fusion of German engineering excellence and the iconic American SUV design, cleverly adapted for the electrifying era exclusively for discerning European patrons. With a more rough and ready appearance compared to the ID.4, this electrifying charmer boasts muscular straight lines, a square-jawed profile, and an overall dominating presence.
Behold the wonder of its design, with its traditional cooling grille that has been reborn as an impenetrable shield, exemplary headlights joined with the Explorer lettering concealing the protective shield, a U-shaped skid plate, vertical taillights that evoke a sense of grandeur akin to the larger Explorer, a slim rear window that bestows an aura of sophistication, and a lower U-shaped element that seamlessly marries with the front skid plate.
Let us not forget the black A-pillars and the unparalleled C-pillars, which lend an ethereal floating roof effect, and the strikingly aero-optimized alloy wheel designs that come in 19, 20, and 21-inch sizes. In addition, the battery-electric Explorer also promises a spectrum of fresh body colors such as Arctic Blue and Vibrant Blue My Mind, besides the customary shades like Frozen White, Magnetic Grey, Agate Black, and Lucid Red that are sure to entice one’s senses.
Interior
The Ford Explorer Electric features a modern design that differentiates it from its competitors. The main highlight of the vehicle is the 15-inch portrait-style Ford Sync Move centre touchscreen that can be smoothly raised and lowered, adding to the vehicle’s style quotient. The screen can conceal the My Private Locker storage area on the centre console when it’s in its lowest position. Along with this, the vehicle, in its unbridled innovation, also boasts a floating digital instrument display that measures a staggering 5.0 inches in width. This digital monolith offers unprecedented insight into the driving experience, presenting an array of data points that span the gamut of driving statistics. From battery charge levels to driver assistance status, this technological marvel promises to provide an unrivaled level of visibility into the intricacies of the driving process. The Ford Explorer Electric introduces an ergonomic haptic trackpad under the centre screen, allowing for convenient control of features such as audio system volume and parking technologies.
The vehicle also offers standard comfort features such as keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, etc. When considering the practical implications, one cannot help but notice the cabin’s impressive array of features. The MegaConsole, located within the centre console below the armrest, provides a multifaceted hub for various functions. Additionally, the forward-angled compartment, specifically designed to house two large-screen smartphones, boasts a standard wireless charger, offering unparalleled convenience. The removable cupholders, while seemingly minor, further demonstrate the meticulous attention to detail that has gone into the cabin’s design. Finally, the lower storage area, which remains tantalizingly unmentioned, offers an enigmatic yet intriguing prospect that is sure to pique the interest of even the most seasoned automobile connoisseur. The trunk offers 15.9 cu ft of luggage space, which can be extended to more than 49.4 cu ft with the back seats folded. Astonishingly, the trunk floor of this vehicle is capable of a feat that few could have ever imagined. It can be lowered to an unprecedented degree, opening up a cavernous expanse of load space that is unmatched in the world of automobiles. Alternatively, it can be raised to create an easy-access platform for bulkier items.
Powertrain & Charging
Ford has not yet disclosed full details about the powertrains for the Explorer EV. The automaker announced that the electric vehicle would have a responsive and refined rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive battery-electric powertrain. Furthermore, it will offer DC fast charging that can charge the vehicle from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 25 minutes. The vehicle is also equipped with CCS charge ports.
The Explorer EV features 12 ultrasonic sensors, five cameras, and three radar devices that collectively monitor 360 degrees around the vehicle for driver assistance systems. The car also has a heat pump to improve energy efficiency. While Ford has not disclosed the range of the all-electric Explorer, the company has claimed that the car will be able to use more than 450,000 chargers across Europe in 2023 and 500,000 by 2024, including over 2,100 DC fast charging stations installed by the Ionity consortium, of which Ford is a founding member.
The Explorer EV is one of nine electric vehicles Ford plans to launch in Europe by 2024, including the Puma EV and another MEB-based model set to enter production in Cologne in mid-2024.
Source and Images: Motor1