Ford’s transformation to an electric vehicle (EV) powerhouse continues, with the company revealing its latest model in Europe – an electric Explorer.

This new Explorer will, however, not be the large SUV that many may remember. Aimed at the European market and engineered and built in Germany, the new EV Explorer is, instead, a mid-sized crossover.

While many technical details are to be confirmed, media reports in Europe have suggested battery pack sizes of 52kWh and 77kWh will be available offering ranges of up to 500km. Whatever eventuates there, Ford does say that the Explorer will be able to fast charge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 25 minutes.

Technology will be top-notch, of course, with features to include a SYNC Move connected infotainment system and a 14.6-inch touchscreen that can slide up and down to suit the driver, wireless app integration and plenty of advanced driver assistance (ADAS) technology. There are 12 ultrasonic sensors, 5 cameras, and three radars dotted
around the Explorer to enable those ADAS features – that will include Assisted Lane Change and Clear Exit Assist that provides warnings of approaching cyclists before opening doors in busy city centres.

Combined storage is 450 litres in five-seat mode and there’s a 17-litre console between driver and front-seat passenger that can hold a 15-inch laptop.

Styling and design touches include sculpted sporty seats and a soundbar up front, while there are also heated front seats and steering wheel, a massaging driver’s seat and climate control that allows driver and front passenger to choose their own temperature. Keyless entry and hands-free power tailgate are standard.

Available initially in two versions, Select and Premium, the all-electric Explorer will be available in Europe – where Ford is committed to offering an all-electric portfolio of passenger vehicles by 2030 – later this year and is Ford’s first EV to be built at scale in the new Ford Cologne EV Campus in Germany.

The new Explorer looks like an excellent addition to the ever-growing choices of EVs, but reports suggest it won’t make it to Australia any time soon. We can keep our fingers crossed that we will see it eventually.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (April 2023)

12 April 2023