Ford’s all-electric Explorer SUV is now on sale in the UK, bringing up to 374 miles of range and pricing from £39,875.
It’s the brand’s first passenger EV to be developed and built in Europe – and a key part of its plans to go all-electric in Europe, alongside a future electric SUV and the new electric Puma.
The 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 Volkswagen ID.3 and ID.4, under a global cooperation between the two firms, and described as “combining German engineering, American style and superior standard specification”.
The Explorer – which will be spotlighted by Ford at the upcoming Great British Fleet Event – was due towards the end of 2023 but was delayed due to changes needed for battery certification. The production version now uses a lithium-ion nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery, chosen for its energy density, power and performance in European climates, and already put through the “world’s ultimate test drive” with a 30,000km (18,641-mile) journey around the world.
The launch line-up includes a choice of two powertrains: single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) or dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD). Both use an extended-range version of the NMC battery. A single-motor RWD powertrain with a standard-range NMC battery will arrive at a later date, priced at £39,875.
The Extended Range RWD model, which is priced at £45,875, features a 286hp motor, delivering a top speed of 111mph and 0-62mph time of 6.4 seconds. It’s connected to a 77kWh battery, giving it the top range figure of 374 miles. The battery is able to charge at 11kW AC or 135kw via DC public charger, the latter giving a 10-80% charge in some 28 minutes.
The Extended Range AWD model gets a 340hp twin-motor setup that means it’s able to accelerate faster than a Ford Performance Focus ST, reaching 62mph in 5.3 seconds. Explorer AWD can also tow up to 1,200kg. It’s fitted with a slightly larger 79kWh battery, again able to charge at 11kW max AC but with a higher DC charging power of 185kW, cutting the 10-80% charge time to around 26 minutes.
Explorer drivers across Europe will be able to easily access and pay for charging at more than 600,000 charging points within the BlueOval Charge Network using the FordPass app or using Plug & Charge technology. These include Ionity’s ultra-rapid charging network – a consortium of which Ford is a founder member, and Allego – which Ford has partnered with to introduce ultra-fast chargers at Ford dealerships.
Two trims are offered: Select and Premium. All models come with some 470 litres of combined storage, including the 17-litre MegaConsole and the secure My Private Locker in the cabin.
The Explorer also features the Sync Move connected infotainment as standard, with an adjustable 14.6-inch centre touchscreen that can be raised and lowered through an arc of more than 30 degrees.
Other standard features include a heated steering wheel and front seats, massaging driver’s seat and wireless phone charging. Interior features include sports seats with integrated headrests, and a soundbar to access audio played through wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connected devices.
Explorer Premium specification adds a 10-speaker B&O sound system and ambient interior lighting, as well as upgrading Explorer’s signature headlamps from LED with auto high beam to Dynamic Matrix LED with Glare-Free Highbeam.
The Explorer also comes with more than 15 standard driver assist technologies, including Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, as well as Clear Exit Warning.
Optional extras are limited to a panoramic roof and a Driver Assist Pack that features hands-free tailgate, head-up display, 360-degree camera and new assisted lane change technology.
- Ford will be at next month’s Great British Fleet Event as part of its as 2024 ‘Go Electric’ Roadshow. Experts from the brand will be on hand to discuss its current and upcoming electrified vehicles, including the Explorer.
