Ford Explorer EV
The Ford Explorer EV is a battery electric mid-size crossover SUV produced by Ford of Europe, featuring a compact design under 4.5 meters in length with five seats across two rows, rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive powertrains, and battery options delivering up to more than 600 km of WLTP-estimated range.[1][2] Revealed on March 21, 2023, at the Ford Cologne EV Centre in Germany—where it is engineered and assembled—mass production began in June 2024, the vehicle represents Ford's inaugural passenger electric model tailored for the European market, blending precise German engineering with bold American styling influences to revive the iconic Explorer nameplate in an all-electric format.[2][3][4] It is available in two variants: the standard Explorer and the higher-spec Explorer Premium, with customer orders opening in mid-2024 and initial deliveries commencing in late 2024 across Europe.[2][5][6] The powertrain is based on the Volkswagen MEB platform with structural battery integration for enhanced efficiency and rigidity.[2] The rear-wheel-drive version employs a 77 kWh battery pack powering a single electric motor that produces 286 PS (211 kW) and 545 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h acceleration in 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h, with a WLTP range exceeding 600 km.[1] The all-wheel-drive model features a 79 kWh battery and dual motors delivering a combined 340 PS (250 kW) and 679 Nm, accelerating to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds while offering 532-566 km of WLTP range.[1] Charging capabilities include up to 185 kW DC fast charging for the AWD variant (10-80% in approximately 26 minutes) and 135 kW for the RWD (10-80% in 28 minutes), complemented by 11 kW AC onboard charging.[1][2] Inside, the Explorer EV emphasizes a minimalist, tech-forward cabin with a 14.6-inch SYNC Move movable touchscreen for infotainment, wireless smartphone integration, and advanced driver-assistance systems including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping aids.[3][1] Practicality is highlighted by 470 liters of cargo space in five-seat configuration, a 17-liter central MegaConsole storage bin, hands-free power tailgate, and premium features like heated seats, ambient lighting in 10 colors, and a soundbar audio system.[3][1] Exterior design elements include aerodynamic 19- to 21-inch alloy wheels, a distinctive front shield grille, signature LED lighting, and color options such as Agate Black and Arctic Blue.[1] Priced starting from under €45,000 (including VAT but excluding on-the-road costs) at launch, the Explorer EV targets urban adventurers and families seeking sustainable mobility, with access to over 500,000 European charging points via Ford's partnerships.[2] By 2025, it has undergone real-world validation, including a record-setting 30,000 km global drive in March 2024 to demonstrate reliability and range performance.[5] As part of Ford's broader electrification strategy, the model supports the company's goal of an all-electric passenger vehicle lineup in Europe by 2030.[2]Development and Production
Development
The development of the Ford Explorer EV stemmed from a strategic alliance between Ford and the Volkswagen Group, announced in July 2019 and expanded in March 2022, which allowed Ford to leverage Volkswagen's Modular Electric Toolkit (MEB) platform for up to 600,000 electric vehicles over several years starting in 2023.[7][8] This partnership facilitated close engineering collaboration in Germany, where Ford's team at the Cologne facilities worked alongside Volkswagen engineers to adapt the MEB architecture for Ford's specifications, emphasizing scalable production and cost efficiencies for the European market.[9] The vehicle's design was led by Jordan Demkiw, Ford's exterior design manager, drawing inspiration from the bold aesthetics and heritage of the sixth-generation U.S. Ford Explorer while resizing it to fit the European C-segment compact crossover category for better urban maneuverability and compliance with regional preferences.[10][11] Demkiw's team focused on integrating American SUV cues, such as a commanding presence and distinctive lighting, with German engineering precision to create a vehicle that blends heritage with modern electric functionality.[2] The Explorer EV was initially revealed on March 21, 2023, at Ford's Cologne facilities in Germany, marking the company's first major electric SUV for Europe and showcasing its commitment to an all-electric passenger lineup by 2030.[2] However, in August 2023, Ford announced delays in customer ordering, originally slated for September 2023, pushing it to March 2024 due to adaptations required for new EU battery regulations under UN Regulation 100, which mandated enhanced safety standards for electric vehicle batteries to mitigate fire risks, alongside broader supply chain challenges affecting component availability. The delay facilitated a switch from planned nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) to lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries for improved safety and compliance.[6][12] A key aspect of the development process involved integrating Ford's proprietary BlueCruise hands-free driving software with the Volkswagen MEB platform's hardware, enabling Level 2+ autonomous capabilities on compatible highways through over-the-air updates and sensor fusion, despite the shared underpinnings.[13] This effort highlighted Ford's focus on software differentiation within the partnership, allowing BlueCruise to utilize the MEB's modular electronics while incorporating Ford-specific features like eye-tracking and adaptive steering for enhanced driver monitoring and safety.[14]Production
The production of the Ford Explorer EV began on June 4, 2024, at the Cologne Electric Vehicle Center, Ford's dedicated assembly plant in Germany, representing the automaker's inaugural all-electric vehicle manufactured in Europe. This milestone followed a €2 billion investment to transform the historic Cologne Body & Assembly facility into a high-tech hub for electric vehicle production. The first production unit was immediately delivered to a customer, underscoring the plant's readiness for mass output, though the launch faced additional software-related challenges in late 2024.[4][15][16] The Cologne facility utilizes expanded assembly lines optimized for the Volkswagen MEB platform, incorporating advanced automation for body construction, powertrain integration, and final vehicle testing. Specialized battery integration lines enable efficient mounting and calibration of the electric drivetrain components, supporting a streamlined manufacturing process that reduces energy consumption by up to 40% compared to traditional plants. The plant's layout emphasizes flexibility, allowing for the production of multiple EV models on shared infrastructure.[17][18] With an initial annual capacity of 250,000 units, the Cologne Electric Vehicle Center is engineered for scalability to accommodate future Ford EV variants, such as the Capri crossover added later in 2024. Component sourcing prioritizes a mix of global and regional suppliers: the 82 kWh (RWD) or 84 kWh (AWD) gross capacity lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery packs are provided by CATL from China, enhancing cost efficiency and safety.[17][19][20] Environmentally, the Cologne plant achieved carbon neutrality upon its EV center opening in 2023, ahead of broader industry timelines, through measures like 100% renewable electricity usage, advanced water recycling systems that cut consumption by 60%, and low-emission painting technologies. These initiatives align with Ford's commitment to net-zero operations across its European manufacturing footprint by 2035, including supplier engagements for sustainable sourcing.[17][21]Design
Exterior Styling
The Ford Explorer EV features a compact crossover body measuring 4,468 mm in length (without towbar), 1,871 mm in width (excluding mirrors), 1,630 mm in height for the rear-wheel-drive variant, and a wheelbase of 2,767 mm, positioning it firmly in the C-segment SUV category for urban and suburban use. [1] This sizing allows for agile handling in European cities while providing ample interior space for five passengers. [2] The exterior adopts a bold, American-inspired design that echoes the assertive style of the iconic U.S.-market Explorer, characterized by a sculpted hood with dynamic lines and a prominent "shield" front grille that is non-functional due to the electric powertrain. [2] Slim LED signature headlights integrate seamlessly into the front fascia, offering a modern, futuristic appearance with options for standard LED units or advanced Dynamic Matrix LED on higher trims. [1] The overall aesthetic combines German engineering precision with striking visual elements, including blacked-out pillars that create a floating roof effect. [2] Aerodynamics play a key role in the design, with a closed grille optimized for airflow, aero-refined alloy wheels in 19- to 21-inch sizes, and a streamlined body shape. [1] These features contribute to efficient highway performance without compromising the vehicle's rugged SUV stance. Exterior color choices include six options: Agate Black, Frozen White, Magnetic Grey, Arctic Blue, Blue My Mind, and Lucid Red, with an optional panoramic roof available to enhance the open-air feel. [1] At the rear, slim full-width LED taillights provide a cohesive lighting signature, complemented by a hands-free power liftgate for convenient access to the cargo area on Premium trims or as an option on base models. [1] [2]Interior and Technology
The interior of the Ford Explorer EV accommodates five passengers across two rows, featuring sculpted sporty seats upholstered in synthetic leather as standard, with optional premium materials available on higher trims.[2] Front seats are power-adjustable and include heating as standard, while massage functions are standard on the driver's seat and ventilation is offered on Premium models for enhanced comfort during long drives.[5] The rear seats feature a 60/40 split-folding configuration, allowing flexible passenger and cargo arrangements.[22] Cargo capacity measures approximately 470 liters behind the rear seats in five-seat mode, expanding to 1,460 liters when the rear seats are folded flat, supported by a hands-free power tailgate and underfloor storage for practicality.[2][23] The cabin design emphasizes a minimalist, digitally inspired wrap-around cockpit with premium touches like a 17-liter MegaConsole center storage that accommodates a 15-inch laptop.[1] The infotainment system centers on a 14.6-inch adjustable portrait-oriented touchscreen running the SYNC Move 2 platform, part of Ford's Digital Experience ecosystem, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless connectivity.[24] Over-the-air updates ensure the system remains current with new features and software enhancements.[2] Complementing this is a 5-inch digital instrument cluster, providing customizable driver information, while an optional head-up display projects key data onto the windshield for reduced distraction.[1] A standard 360-degree camera system aids in maneuvering, and ambient lighting with multiple color options creates a customizable atmosphere, paired with a wireless charging pad in the center console for device convenience.[1][5] The system also integrates with Ford's advanced driver assistance features, such as BlueCruise hands-free highway driving where available.[25]Powertrain and Performance
Battery and Electric Range
The Ford Explorer EV features lithium-ion nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries with liquid cooling to maintain optimal performance and longevity across varying conditions. Entry-level models are equipped with a standard-range battery of 55 kWh nominal capacity (52 kWh usable), while premium trims offer an extended-range option with 82 kWh nominal capacity (77 kWh usable in rear-wheel-drive configuration and 79 kWh usable in all-wheel-drive setup). These batteries are designed for efficient energy storage and delivery in a mid-size SUV platform. Under Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) standards, the extended-range rear-wheel-drive variant achieves up to 602 km (374 miles) on a full charge, while the all-wheel-drive counterpart reaches 566 km (351 miles); the standard-range rear-wheel-drive model provides 378 km (235 miles). These figures represent combined cycle estimates and can vary based on trim-specific features like wheel size and equipment. Key factors influencing real-world range include the vehicle's aerodynamic profile, with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.28 that aids efficiency at highway speeds, adjustable levels of regenerative braking to recapture energy during deceleration, and consumption rates of 13.9–16.6 kWh/100 km across variants. Motor configurations, such as single- versus dual-motor setups, also impact overall efficiency by affecting weight and power distribution. The battery pack carries an 8-year/160,000 km warranty, ensuring retention of at least 70% capacity over that period to support long-term ownership reliability. To estimate range conceptually, the fundamental relationship is derived from energy balance: the total distance achievable equals the usable battery energy divided by the vehicle's specific energy consumption rate. This can be expressed as \text{Range (km)} = \frac{\text{Usable Capacity (kWh)}}{\text{Consumption (kWh/100 km)}} \times 100. For instance, using the extended-range rear-wheel-drive model's 77 kWh usable capacity and 13.9 kWh/100 km efficiency yields approximately 554 km theoretically, though WLTP testing accounts for standardized driving cycles to provide the certified 602 km figure; real-world adjustments for temperature, terrain, and driving style typically reduce this by 10–20%.Motors and Drivetrain
The Ford Explorer EV employs permanent magnet synchronous electric motors developed under the Volkswagen MEB platform, providing efficient power delivery through a single-speed automatic transmission.[5][26] The Standard Range rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configuration features a single rear-mounted motor rated at 125 kW (168 bhp), which propels the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 170 km/h.[27] The Extended Range RWD uses a single rear-mounted motor rated at 210 kW (286 PS). For enhanced performance, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant uses dual motors delivering a combined 250 kW (335 bhp), with 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.3 seconds on the Premium trim; this setup incorporates torque vectoring to optimize traction and cornering stability by selectively distributing power and applying brakes to individual wheels.[28][29][1] Drivers can select from multiple modes to tailor the vehicle's response, including Normal for balanced everyday driving, Eco to prioritize efficiency, and Sport for sharper throttle and steering feel.[29] The drivetrain integrates seamlessly with the vehicle's independent suspension system, which includes adaptive dampers on higher Premium trims to adjust ride firmness based on road conditions and driving style, maintaining a ground clearance of 202 mm for versatile handling.[30] When equipped for towing, the Ford Explorer EV supports up to 1,000 kg of braked trailer weight for RWD variants and 1,200 kg for AWD, enabling practical utility for light loads while preserving the electric powertrain's smooth torque delivery.[5][1] The efficiency of these drivetrain configurations contributes to overall range variations, though specific endurance figures depend on battery and usage factors.[1]Charging Capabilities
The Ford Explorer EV supports DC fast charging via a CCS2 connector, enabling rapid replenishment of its battery. For the Extended Range rear-wheel-drive variant with a 77 kWh usable battery capacity, the maximum DC charging rate is 135 kW, allowing a charge from 10% to 80% state of charge in approximately 28 minutes under optimal conditions. The all-wheel-drive model, featuring a 79 kWh usable capacity, achieves up to 185 kW, reducing the same 10-80% charge time to about 26 minutes. These rates taper as the battery approaches full capacity, and actual performance varies based on factors such as ambient temperature and charger availability.[1][31][32] For home or workplace AC charging, the vehicle is equipped with a standard 11 kW onboard charger compatible with Type 2 connectors, providing a full charge in roughly 7 to 7.5 hours depending on the battery variant. This setup supports single-phase AC input up to 240 V, making it suitable for typical residential installations across Europe. The system integrates with the vehicle's SYNC infotainment for scheduling and monitoring charge sessions.[1][32][33] The Explorer EV includes Plug & Charge functionality on compatible public networks, such as IONITY, which automates authentication and billing without requiring a separate app or card, streamlining the user experience at supported CCS2 stations. Additionally, it offers bidirectional charging capabilities, including vehicle-to-home (V2H) applications in select European markets, where the EV can serve as a backup power source when paired with compatible home energy systems.[34][35][36] To enhance charging efficiency, particularly in colder climates, the vehicle incorporates a heat pump system for battery preconditioning, which warms the battery pack prior to DC fast charging sessions via the FordPass app or onboard controls. This process optimizes charge acceptance rates by maintaining ideal battery temperatures, reducing energy loss and potentially shortening overall charging times without drawing significantly from the battery's range. Brief reference to battery preconditioning aligns with its role in maximizing DC session performance, as detailed in related powertrain specifications.[37][38]Models and Variants
Trim Levels
The Ford Explorer EV is offered in three trim levels in Europe: Style, Select, and Premium, each building on the previous with enhanced features, performance options, and luxury appointments to cater to different buyer preferences.[39][40] The base Style trim emphasizes efficiency and essential functionality, equipped with a single-motor rear-wheel-drive (RWD) powertrain and a 52 kWh battery pack. It includes 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights with auto high-beam assist, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, and the SYNC 4 infotainment system with a 14.6-inch touchscreen supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Starting at approximately €46,500, this entry-level variant prioritizes urban usability and cost-effectiveness for everyday driving.[39][41][40] The mid-level Select trim upgrades to a larger 77 kWh battery for extended range while retaining RWD as standard, adding comfort-oriented features such as heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, an electrically adjustable driver's seat with massage function, and wireless smartphone charging. It maintains the 19-inch wheels but introduces adaptive cruise control as standard, enhancing highway efficiency. Priced from around €54,500, Select strikes a balance between practicality and refinement, appealing to families seeking reliable all-around performance without excess luxury.[39][42][40] At the top, the Premium trim incorporates all Select features plus options for a 77 kWh or 79 kWh battery with RWD or all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, 20-inch alloy wheels, matrix-beam LED headlights, a panoramic glass roof, ambient interior lighting, a hands-free power tailgate, and a premium 10-speaker B&O sound system. A 52 kWh battery is also available in RWD configuration. Adaptive suspension is available to improve ride quality and handling, particularly in AWD configuration. Starting at about €51,000 (prices vary by market; e.g., from £43,985 in the UK), this variant focuses on upscale comfort and capability for longer journeys or varied terrains.[39][43][41][44] Key differentiators across trims include the Style's focus on core efficiency for budget-conscious buyers, Select's emphasis on enhanced daily comfort and range, and Premium's luxury and performance upgrades for premium experiences. Optional packages available on all trims encompass a BlueCruise hands-free driving subscription for eligible highways and a towing kit supporting up to 1,600 kg braked capacity, allowing customization based on needs. Safety features like lane-keeping assist vary slightly by trim but are comprehensively detailed in the active safety section.[39][42]| Trim Level | Drivetrain & Battery | Key Standard Features | Starting Price (approx. €, Europe) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Style | RWD, 52 kWh | 19-inch wheels, SYNC 4 infotainment, dual-zone climate | 46,500 |
| Select | RWD, 77 kWh | Heated/massaging seats, wireless charging, adaptive cruise | 54,500 |
| Premium | RWD/AWD, 52/77/79 kWh | Panoramic roof, B&O audio, matrix LEDs, 20-inch wheels | 51,000 |