Ford has unveiled in a digital event the new 100% electric vehicle that will be added to the range of emission-free models of the American manufacturer. This is the Explorer, the firm's popular SUV, which will be the first of a new generation of electric vehicles from the company, paving the way for a complete reinvention of the brand in Europe.
The midsize crossover will be assembled at the new Ford Cologne EV Center in Germany, which has involved an investment of $2 billion. Ford Europe plans to sell more than 600,000 fully electric vehicles in the region by 2026 and has committed to offering a range of fully electric passenger cars in the Old Continent by 2030 in its final transition towards full decarbonisation.
The newest member of this veteran crossover saga reinterprets the energetic and robust styling of this legendary SUV with European customers in mind specifically. It combines a powerful presence and a strong visual identity stemming from its American heritage with a fluid, futuristic and streamlined design promoting aerodynamic efficiency.
The front is characterized by the transformation of the classic combustion engine cooling grill into a kind of "shield" to create a continuous surface on which to display the blue oval logo, conveniently renewed for a new generation of electric vehicles. The front headlamps intertwine with a graphic running the length and width of the nameplate, encircling the shield and enhancing its presence, while its side silhouette shows off clean, simple and bold lines.
The rear exhibits compact and dynamic proportions, with a slim rear window that further accentuates the vehicle's width and poise. The vertical taillights are distinguished by a striking 'line of light' to convey a greater sense of off-road capability. Finally, a black side-by-side element connects the taillights and displays the Explorer name.
With five seats in two rows of seats, the Explorer takes full advantage of its all-electric architecture for maximum interior flexibility. In this regard, it is worth noting the Ford SYNC Move 15-inch adjustable central touch screen. It can be raised and lowered smoothly in an arc of more than 30 degrees. Its configurable layout helps drivers switch between their preferred screen positions for quick navigation or simply tailoring the interior to their driving position preferences.
The screen's vertical profile enables users to see further into the maps when using the Connected Navigation system, while the screen's brightness level can be adjusted just like a mobile phone. In addition, the fully configurable home screen and large touchscreen sliders make it quick and easy to access key features or make quick changes to adjust the climate.
Freedom to explore new territory, capture the spirit of exploration that embodies Ford's SUV heritage, and instill the confidence to travel without limitations. This is how the brand defines the objectives set with the new Explorer to convince and conquer a new generation of drivers. To achieve this, the brand will deploy an entire electrical support ecosystem that will complement the features of the vehicle itself in the new electrified landscape that will shape the mobility of the future.
Thus, Ford's emission-free crossover will be launched in two high-performance variants - Explorer and Explorer Premium, with rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive - both configured with electric drive systems with batteries capable of fast charging. The batteries are expected to charge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 25 minutes using DC (direct current) fast charging via the rear wing's CCS charging port, supported by battery temperature preconditioning. to optimize upload speeds. The public charging cable that Ford will provide will also allow charging from Type 2 AC power stations.
Customers will have access to more than 450,000 chargers across Europe, increasing to 500,000 by 2024. These include the more than 2,100 DC fast charging stations already installed at more than 450 locations by the IONITY consortium, of which Ford is a member.
Developed in Europe by the Ford Model e business unit -focused on the design, production and distribution of electric and connected vehicles-, the 100% electric Explorer can be ordered from the end of this year, with an expected price of less than 45,000 euros . Customers can now take virtual test drives of the electric Explorer through a series of advanced simulated driving environments from their computer or mobile device.
