The Ford Explorer Electric Vehicle (EV) has entered the competitive family SUV market, and it aims to leave quite the impression. Automotive reviewer Al Suttie spent a week testing the extended-range RWD version of the Explorer to see if this new electric model could shake off the negative images associated with its gasoline-powered predecessor, which previously found limited success in the UK.
With a manufacturer suggested price of £51,220 and carbon emissions sitting at 0g/km, the Ford Explorer EV brings something new and eco-friendly to the traditional SUV scene. The immediate features like the Driver Assist Pack and improved range are notable, but does it deliver enough to challenge established family SUVs?
From the get-go, the Ford Explorer EV distinguishes itself from its cousin, the Mach-E, by focusing on vehicle utility rather than exhilarating speed. Covering the 0-62 mph mark in 6.4 seconds, this SUV provides enough power for merging onto busy highways without overemphasizing sports dynamics. "It makes pulling onto a very busy roundabout at the top of the M9 motorway a breeze," noted Suttie, reflecting on its agility.
The styling of the Explorer also has received positive remarks. With its slightly more traditional front-end design compared to many electric vehicles, it strikes a balance between modern aesthetics and recognizable SUV charm. Its looks, combined with efficient features like 20-inch alloy wheels on the Premium trim, contribute to its appeal without the overt aggressiveness seen in some competitors.
But it's not just about looks—the Ford Explorer EV speaks to practicality as well. The interior is spacious enough to comfortably seat four or five adults, making it suitable for family outings. It features adequate boot space, with intentions clearly set on weekender trips or day-to-day utility. Suttie pointed out, "It’s not as vast as its old namesake inside, but it’s more than roomy for four or five." This family-friendly focus is particularly timely as more parents look to EVs for maintaining sustainability without sacrificing comfort.
Throughout Suttie's week of usage, he noted some practicalities and some challenges. The Explorer came equipped with heated seats and steering which, fine for comfort's sake, had impacts on battery efficiency, ostensibly knocking off range significantly under real-world conditions. "Using the heated seats and steering wheel to fend off the chilly weather does deplete the battery range noticeably," he remarked, pointing to this practical limit shoppers need to be aware of.
Perhaps most concerning was the discrepancy between the advertised range of 354 miles and the actual range experienced, which was nearly 100 miles less due to colder weather and practical driving conditions. The reviewer noted, "Ford claims a 354-mile range, but the dash display calculates...almost 100 miles less..." This raises important questions about how electric vehicle ranges can decrease due to external variables—a running concern for potential buyers.
On functionality, the Ford Explorer EV equipped the reviewer with amiable features such as easy accessibility for charging and storing the charging cables under the load floor, avoiding clutter. Nevertheless, minor annoyances surfaced. For example, Suttie found the electric tailgate button positioned awkwardly for right-handed users, complicing access when managing other items like shopping bags.
With continuous usage, Suttie charged the Explorer EV multiple times at 50 kW chargers with no issues but highlighted the associated costs, hinting at the vehicle's long-term financial commitments beyond the initial sticker price.
The Ford Explorer EV has set out with promises—a family-friendly SUV with electric integrity and practical capability—but as Suttie's thorough review showcases, it still has elements to refine if it wants to stand apart amid the growing EV market. The challenge now will be balancing expectations around range and exploring its utility points without losing sight of consumer satisfaction.
Overall, this new iteration of the Explorer shows promise, featuring much-needed advancements and being tuned for family life, yet buyers must weigh the practicality versus range claims before making any commitments. The Ford Explorer EV may not yet eclipse traditional offerings but is undeniably on the road to carving its niche within the electric SUV sector.