Ford’s Electric Explorer: VW in Disguise

Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover

It’s been quite a while since we had word that Ford and Volkswagen were joining forces to build an electrified SUV, and now Ford Europe has uncovered what this vehicle would be; say a warm hello to the Ford Explorer.

The initial all-electric Explorer runs under Volkswagen’s MEB electric structure rather than the Global Electrified 1 (GE1) Ford platform utilized by the Mustang Mach-E. Although it has German fundamentals, that is not evidently seen in the fresh Explorer.

At the front, the traditional grille has been replaced with a new shield design. We appreciate how “Explorer” is subtly included in the upper fascia, and the overall look doesn’t feel like a huge departure from the gas-powered model. The side profile has some interesting features, such as unique aero wheels (ranging from 19 to 21 inches) and an attractive C-Pillar design.

In the back, the tail lamps remind one of the current Explorer, but there is no hint of exhaust pipes.

Ford has not mentioned any performance or capacity details for the battery, but they declared that the electric Explorer is accessible either in two- and four-wheel-drive set-ups.

This will be the initial battery-powered Ford crafted at its Cologne EV Center in Germany, wherein the Fiesta ST was assembled before its end. Ford remains to solely advertise it in Europe, thus, Stateside patrons have access only to the traditional fuel-powered Explorer. However, though named an Explorer, it is over 20 inches decreased than the American general combustion engine variation. This abides to the familiar Ford system of employing a present term regarding a novel EV, and plausibly made smaller to acquire more attractiveness among European consumers. It constitutes one of seven upcoming EVs the business will launch all over the world before 2024.

“Explorer is a game-changer for the emerging selection of electrifying Ford vehicles. Boasting a classic American pedigree but assembled in Cologne for drivers in Europe, it is fully equipped for grand adventures and has all the features customers require for their daily commutes,” declared Martin Sander, General Manager for Ford Model e, Europe.

Despite the Volkswagen underpinnings, the interior is comprised of Ford’s technology and knobs (regardless, the cargo hole in the rear is purely Volkswagen).

Mounted on the dashboard is a 15-inch Sync 4 infotainment system, along with a hidden section labelled My Private Locker. Ford has engineered the all-electric Explorer to offer space for up to five individuals, in addition to 16.6 cubic feet of storage located in the car’s trunk. Although they didn’t divulge any additional information when it comes to the battery size or charging options available, we do know that the Explorer can be charged from 10 to 80 percent power in as little as 25 minutes if one opts to go with high-speed charging. Judging by the press photographs, it appears that home charging solutions may also be provided.

The cost begins at a rate of less than €45,000 ($48,500), and reservations can be made later this year.