The European Ford Explorer Is Way Smaller, And Fully Electric
This trendy EV is Europe only, at least, for now.
Similar to the United States, Ford has opted to start winding down its sedan and hatchback lineup, replacing them with crossovers and EVs. The Mondeo, (known as Fusion), Focus, and Fiesta are on the chopping block, and in its place, Ford is in part offering a brand-new EV: The Ford Explorer.
Yes, you read that right. Ford is calling its new Europe-only EV, the Explorer. Not to be confused with the seven-passenger full-sized SUV that we’ve come to know and love, this vehicle is far smaller. Underneath, the Ford Explorer shares a common platform with the Volkswagen ID.4. So, it’s definitely far more petite than our behemoth Explorer, but in the grand scheme of things, it’ll be about the size of every other compact crossover on sale today.
Ford’s managed to shake any appearance of its VW roots on the Explorer. The exterior is stylish, almost like a rounded-off Bronco Sport. Inside, the ID.4’s touch-capacitive nonsense is gone, replaced with a 14.6-inch vertical touchscreen, that looks to run the same Sync 4 system that is in the F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E. And it’s got four, real power window switches, unlike the VW ID.4.
Otherwise, we don’t have any other mechanical specifications for the Ford Explorer. Since it’s based on the VW MEB platform, it’ll likely come with 58.0-kWh and 77.0-kWh battery packs, and power outputs that could crest 300 horsepower in dual-motor trim. The crossover will be made in Germany, and start around the equivalent of $48,000 USD.
Confusing name aside, we think the Explorer could be a real hit in the US, potentially more than what it would do in Europe. Ford could use a right-sized, traditionally-shaped EV crossover that could cater to those who aren’t so keen on the Mustang Mach-E. If sold in North America, the Explorer would go directly against the forthcoming Chevy Equinox EV, and potentially the Honda Prologue.
Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here
Kevin has been obsessed with cars ever since he could talk. He even learned to read partially by learning and reading the makes and models on the back of cars, only fueling his obsession. Today, he is an automotive journalist and member of the Automotive Press Association. He is well-versed in electrification, hybrid cars, and vehicle maintenance.
More by Kevin Williams
Comments
Join the conversation