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Ford’s all-electric Explorer was scheduled to go on sale in Europe in the last quarter of 2023, but the introduction of new EU battery certifications has caused delays. Now, after tweaking the formula, the American brand is finally ready to launch a competitive SUV in the region.
Prices start in the UK from €45,000, or £39,875 (approximately $42,000 less European taxes/AU$65,000) This base-level electric model was launched after the more expensive version and is mounted on the rear axle. It features a single 168bhp motor and is powered by a small 52kWh battery pack.
As expected, the all-electric range (about 370 miles) is an impressive 374 miles, which Ford advertises on the more powerful Extended Range rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions (prices start from £45,875). It’s not even close to the range. (approximately $46,000 less VAT/AU$71,000).
These models use a revised 77kWh lithium-ion nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery pack that now complies with recently introduced UN regulations regarding EV safety. It also has a rear-mounted 282bhp single motor for maximum electric range.
The dual-motor all-wheel drive version offers improved performance, using a slightly larger 79kWh battery pack and increasing power to 335bhp, which equates to a fastest 0-100km/h time of 5.3 seconds. Range here hovers around the 330 mile mark.
The all-electric Ford Explorer is the first result of the Blue Oval’s partnership with the Volkswagen Group, which has contributed its MEB architecture and electric motor knowledge to underpin the new model.
According to Ford, this gives the Explorer more development time to deliver a sporty and dynamic driving experience, Martin Sander, head of Ford’s European Model E electrification division, told Autocar. , said the Explorer has a “very unique character” compared to many models. As a result, it becomes a competitor in its segment.
Speaking of which, the Ford Explorer will be up against a handful of models with nearly identical underpinnings, such as the VW ID 4 and Skoda Enyak, but neither can match its maximum EV range of 374 miles. However, we will discuss the pricing in detail.
To keep things simple, Ford will only offer Select and Premium trim levels, and every car will feature a heated steering wheel and seats, wireless smartphone charging, and Ford’s latest vertical infotainment that can tilt up to 30 degrees. Benefits such as the ment system “Think Move” will be given. degree to minimize glare.
Analysis: Key milestones for Ford
The European Explorer stands out in Ford’s new electrification era as it aims to take on existing EVs with a competitive electric range and conventional SUV styling that is deliberately US-inspired. It is likely to be an extremely important vehicle.
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is currently the only electric passenger car on sale in Europe and has strong sales around the world, but some reports suggest that customer enthusiasm for the model is particularly strong in the US. This suggests that it is slowing down.
The introduction of a slightly more “conventional” SUV shape, with reasonable load space and a comfortable architecture designed for European roads, would probably be an attractive proposition for buyers.
However, Ford appears to remain unsure about its future EV strategy, having previously delayed spending $12 billion on EVs, citing market indecision. Additionally, CEO Jim Farley believes small, low-cost electric vehicles are key to the company’s future success.
€45,000 (£39,875 / $42,000 / AU$65,000) may seem cheap on paper, but it’s not even close to a figure in the headline-grabbing range. It will cost at least £45,875 (approximately $46,000 less VAT/AU$71,000) to access these, which is still a significant amount for new customers.
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