Americans crave electric SUVs — but automakers dream of a slow and orderly transition to e-mobility. Unfortunately for us Americans, this means that new EV models are usually launched in China and/or Europe first.
ford has unveiled a new all-electric Explorer, designed and built in Germany, as part of a strategy to “reinvent the Ford brand in Europe.”
The electric Explorer will be the first electric vehicle to be built on a large scale at the new Ford Cologne EV Center in Germany. Ford says it will offer an all-electric portfolio of passenger cars in Europe by 2030.
Ford isn’t offering any technical details of the new Explorer at this time, but says it will be available in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive variants and will be outfitted with the latest electronic goodies and amenities.
The SYNC Move infotainment system has a 15-inch articulating touchscreen that slides up and down to suit the driver (Tesla, note), plus wireless compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. There is storage space for a laptop and another with a wireless phone charger.
Other bells and whistles include heated front seats and steering wheel, a massaging driver’s seat, individual climate controls, a kick-activated tailgate and multiple driver assistance features.
“Explorer is a precursor to a new generation of exciting Ford electric vehicles. Infused with our American roots but built in Cologne for our customers in Europe, it’s ready for the big adventures and packed with everything our customers need for their everyday drives,” said Martin Sander, general manager, Ford Model e, Europe .
Orders will be accepted “from the end of this year” and prices are expected to start at “less than €45,000”.
Source: ford
