I have always been fascinated by the Ford Explorer. This iconic SUV has been a symbol of adventure and freedom for decades, offering spaciousness, comfort, and versatility. But now, Ford has taken the Explorer to a whole new level with its 100% electric version, which shows the way for a new wave of Ford electric vehicles.
The electric Ford Explorer is not just a rebadged version of the conventional model. It is a completely new car, designed and built in Europe, with German engineering and American heritage. It is based on the Volkswagen MEB platform, which also underpins the Volkswagen ID 4 and other electric models from the VW Group. This means that the Ford Explorer benefits from the latest technology and innovation in electric mobility, such as a choice of battery sizes, fast charging capability, and advanced driver assistance systems.
The Ford Explorer also stands out with its bold and futuristic design, which combines a boxy shape with sleek lines and aerodynamic features. The front end features a distinctive LED light signature and a closed grille that hints at its electric nature. The side profile showcases the large wheels and the high ground clearance, while the rear end features a full-width light bar and a roof spoiler. The Ford Explorer looks like a concept car rather than a family car, but it is actually very practical and spacious inside.
The interior of the Ford Explorer electric SUV is designed to offer comfort, convenience and connectivity. The dashboard is dominated by a 15-inch adjustable touchscreen that can be moved up and down or sideways to suit different drivers or passengers. Behind the screen, there is a hidden storage compartment that can hold personal items or valuables. The center console also has a large storage space called the MegaConsole, which can fit a laptop, several water bottles, or other items. The seats are sporty and supportive, and the sound bar in the instrument panel provides high-quality audio.
The Ford Explorer can accommodate five people and their luggage comfortably. The rear seat can be folded down to create more cargo space or to load long items. The boot has a capacity of approximately 450 liters, which is more than enough for most trips. The Ford Explorer also has a towing capacity of up to 1,000 kg, which is impressive for an electric car.
The Ford Explorer offers three power outputs to suit different needs and preferences. The entry-level model has 168 hp from a single electric motor that drives the rear wheels. The mid-range model has 282 hp from the same motor, while the top-of-the-range model has 335 hp from two motors that power all four wheels. The latter also has more torque and better acceleration than any other version of the Ford Explorer.
The Ford Explorer electric SUV also has two battery options: a 52 kWh battery that provides an official range of up to 230 miles and a 77 kWh battery that extends the range to up to 310 miles. Both batteries can be charged at up to 125 kW at fast charging stations, which means that a 10-80% charge can take as little as 35 minutes. Ford also offers a discounted tariff for using the Ionity charging network, which has over 400 stations across Europe.
The Ford Explorer is not only efficient and eco-friendly but also fun and safe to drive. It has a low center of gravity and a balanced weight distribution, which improve its handling and stability. It also has several driving modes that adjust the steering, suspension, and throttle response according to the road conditions or the driver's mood. The Ford Explorer also comes with a range of driver assistance features that enhance safety and convenience, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and park assist.
The Ford Explorer is expected to go on sale in late 2023, with prices starting from around $49,683. This makes it competitive with other electric SUVs on the market, such as the Volkswagen ID 4, the Kia EV6, and the Nissan Ariya. However, none of them can match the Ford Explorer's unique combination of style, practicality, and performance. The Ford Explorer is more than just an electric SUV; it is an invitation to explore the world with confidence and excitement.
Btw, Lexie Alford and Ford Explorer are redefining exploration for the 21st century, showing that electric vehicles can be adventurous, fun, and reliable. They are also celebrating the spirit of Aloha Wanderwell, who paved the way for women explorers and inspired generations of travelers. Lexie Alford and Ford Explorer invite you to join them on their journey, which you can follow online through their social media. You can also experience virtual electric Explorer test drives through a range of intrepid driving environments from your desktop or mobile device. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the world with Lexie Alford and Ford Explorer!