Ford Explorer electric SUV is first in wave of bold new EVs
Ford has revealed its new Explorer electric SUV, springboarding plans for a bold new range of EVs that will reinvent the brand.
Designed for Europe and built at its new EV plant in Cologne, Germany, the new model also fuses in the brand’s American roots; from styling to the Explorer nameplate.
“Explorer is a trailblazer for a new breed of exciting Ford electric vehicles. Steeped in our American roots but built in Cologne for our customers in Europe, it is road trip-ready for the big adventures and fully loaded with everything our customers will need for their daily drives,” said Martin Sander, general manager, Ford Model e, Europe.
The two-row, five-seat midsize crossover joins the existing Mustang Mach-E SUV, marking the brand’s second electric vehicle. But it’s built on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform also used for the ID.3 and ID.4, under a global cooperation between the two firms that has also delivered the latest Ranger and Amarok pickups, both the work of Ford.
The new Explorer is a crucial part of Ford’s plans to have an all-electric portfolio of passenger vehicles in Europe by 2030.
Full powertrain and battery details haven’t been revealed but the line-up will include rear-wheel and all-wheel drive versions while DC fast charging will enable a 10-80% charge in 25 minutes and the BlueOval network will give access to more than 21,000 charging stations across Europe.
Boot space stands at 450 litres with the rear seats up while tailgate operation is hands-free. The cabin is designed to be roomy, with a private locker and a 17-litre central console that provides stowage for large items, such as a laptop.
Two grades – Select and Premium – will be available. Onboard tech includes a movable 14.6‑inch touchscreen running Ford’s latest Sync Move infotainment system, wireless compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a wireless device charger.
Advanced driver assistance features include assisted lane changes for the first time in Europe and warnings of oncoming cyclists before the doors are opened.
The new all-electric Explorer can be ordered from later this year.
Natalie Middleton
Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for nearly 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day. Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news - or gossip.
