NEW Electric Ford Explorer Full Review: Does This 374-Mile SUV Set a New Benchmark in the EV Market
Watch Vicki Butler-Henderson give her verdict on the NEW Electric Ford Explorer:
The Ford Explorer, a name long associated with rugged American SUVs, has made a grand entrance into the European market, reimagined as a compact and fully electric SUV. Since its debut in the early '90s in the US, the Explorer has evolved with the times, now catering to the growing demand for electric vehicles. Priced between £40,000 and £50,000, the new Explorer seeks to combine American heritage with modern technology, offering a stylish, practical, and innovative choice for families and adventurers alike.
Specifications:
Price: £40,000 - £50,000
Powertrain: Electric RWD or AWD
Range: Up to 374 miles (RWD), 352 miles (AWD)
Charging Time: 10-80% in 26 minutes with fast charging (AWD)
Colours: 1 standard, 5 premium (£800 extra)
Exterior & Design
The new Explorer presents a bold and unmistakably electric look, with a distinctive front end that exudes confidence. While its dimensions are more compact compared to a Land Rover Discovery Sport, the Explorer still boasts a commanding road presence. The "Blue My Mind" paint, a vivid shade that adds a touch of personality, is an optional extra that’s well worth the investment for those seeking a splash of colour. The overall design is characterised by simplicity and function, making it adaptable to both city streets and country roads.
Interior & Features
Inside, the Explorer emphasises digital sophistication and minimalism. The centrepiece of the cabin is the 14.6-inch touchscreen, which can tilt to reveal a hidden storage compartment, adding a unique touch to the vehicle's practical appeal. Ford has cleverly incorporated nearly 500 litres of interior storage space, including a "mega console" under the armrest that can hold a 15-inch laptop, making it ideal for busy families or tech enthusiasts.
The rear seating area provides ample room for three passengers, and with the rear seats folded down, the boot space expands from 470 litres to a generous 1,460 litres. The premium model enhances the experience with luxury touches like a ten-speaker B&O sound system, ambient lighting with a choice of ten colours, and a sleek soundbar integrated into the dashboard for a more immersive audio experience.
Notably, some familiar switchgear appears thanks to Ford's partnership with Volkswagen, such as the touch-sensitive volume slider. While this feature may not be to everyone’s liking, it reflects a shared commitment to electric vehicle development. Optional extras include a panoramic roof, a driver assistance pack featuring a 360-degree camera, and a £1,000 heat pump that helps efficiently heat the cabin during colder weather
Tyre Talk
Equipped with aerodynamic wheels ranging from 19 to 21 inches, the Explorer optimises efficiency and aesthetics. The model reviewed features 20-inch alloys fitted with Continental EcoContact 6Q tyres, which are designed specifically for electric vehicles.
These tyres utilise an advanced silica compound to boost energy efficiency and maximise the Explorer's electric range. The carefully crafted tread design minimises road noise while maintaining superb grip, providing a quiet and stable ride. Engineered for the unique demands of electric SUVs, the EcoContact 6Q ensures a balance of performance, durability, and comfort on all types of roads.
Battery and Charging Technology
One of the highlights of the electric Ford Explorer is its advanced battery system, delivering both impressive range and quick charging times. The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version offers a range of up to 374 miles on a full charge, making it perfect for longer journeys. For those opting for the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version, you still get a solid range of 352 miles, alongside faster charging capabilities, which are ideal for more performance-focused driving.
Thanks to Ford’s fast-charging technology, the Explorer can recharge from 10% to 80% in just 26 minutes when plugged into a rapid charger. This ensures that long road trips don’t become a hassle when it comes to finding time to recharge. Ford’s Blue Oval Charge Network, with over 600,000 charging points across Europe, makes finding a place to recharge convenient and straightforward. Whether at home, work, or on the road, you’re well-supported by this expansive charging infrastructure.
The Explorer’s battery is also equipped with smart energy management features. The heat pump option is especially useful in cold climates, helping regulate cabin temperature without draining the battery, which helps preserve driving range during the winter months. Ford backs the Explorer's battery with an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty, giving drivers confidence in the vehicle's long-term durability.
Driving Experience
The Explorer impresses with its electric powertrain capabilities, offering smooth and dynamic performance on the road. The all-wheel-drive model, capable of accelerating from 0-62 mph in 5.3 seconds, delivers impressive performance for an electric SUV. The suspension has been fine-tuned for European roads, ensuring a smooth ride across various surfaces. While the steering feels light at higher speeds, switching to Sport mode offers a more weighted response, enhancing the driving experience.
The Explorer’s regenerative braking system supports one-pedal driving in "B mode," maximising energy recovery during deceleration. This refined system allows for smoother stops and adds to the car's efficiency, making everyday driving a breeze.
Vicki’s Verdict
"This Ford has got a great range, some lovely interior features, and a sense of fun. You would be foolish not to explore it."
The Ford Explorer successfully blends its iconic heritage with modern electric vehicle advancements. With a spacious, well-equipped interior, impressive driving range, and playful driving dynamics, it stands out in the competitive electric SUV market. Vicki finds the Explorer to be an enticing option, especially for families or anyone considering a switch to electric driving.
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