Ford Explorer EV revealed for Europe

FORD has debuted its all-electric Explorer SUV this week, with the Volkswagen-based five-seater to go on sale in Europe later this year price from €45,000 ($A72,000) plus on-road costs.

The stylish mid-sized model – which will not be offered in Australia – will be produced at Ford of Europe’s Cologne facility in Germany. It shares underpinnings with the VW ID.4, making it one of two Ford models that will stem from Volkswagen’s MEB electric platform before the end of 2024.

For the EU, Ford will offer the Explorer EV in three configurations: an entry-grade rear-wheel drive with a 52kWh battery, 350km range and 125kW output; a mid-tier rear-wheel drive with larger 77kWh battery, 540km range and stronger 210kW output; and a range-topping all-wheel drive dual-motor with the same 77kWh battery, 490km range and 250kW output.

DC fast charging can replenish the smaller battery pack at a capacity of up to 130kW, while the larger battery pack supports a charging capacity of up to 170kW. A 10 to 80 per cent charge is said to take just 25 minutes.

Ford says the Explorer EV receives its own suspension tune with a familiar MacPherson strut front and multilink rear arrangement providing a “different driving experience” to the Volkswagen derivative.

The 2024 Ford Explorer EV measures 4450mm in length, giving it a similar stature to the Honda HR-V, Nissan Qashqai or Toyota Corolla Cross. It will be offered in two model grades in Europe: Explorer and Explorer Premium, each with a generous list of standard equipment.

Ford’s 15.0-inch SYNC Move central infotainment array offers a moveable, portrait-oriented display that combines wireless app integration with a tailored audio package and advanced driver assistance technology. The screen conceals a storage cubby ahead of the centre console, which itself offers a separate compartment of 17 litres.

The “ultra-modern” interior combines premium materials and sculpted sports seats across two rows. Like many EVs, pre-conditioning of the cabin’s climate is possible, the space also boasting heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, a massaging driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, as well as keyless entry and start.

Further back, and with access via an optional handsfree electric tailgate, the Explorer EV provides “about 470 litres” of cargo space in five-seat mode.

Advanced driver assistance systems include assisted lane change and clear exit assist among a raft of active and passive safety systems.

“(The) Explorer is a trailblazer for a new breed of exciting Ford electric vehicles,” said Ford Model e Europe general manager, Martin Sander.

“Steeped in our American roots but built in Cologne for our customers in Europe, it is road-trip ready for the big adventures and fully loaded with everything our customers will need for their daily drives.”

Speaking to GoAuto about the possibility of an Explorer EV for Australia, a local spokesperson said simply, “while we have no plans to introduce the all-electric Explorer in Australia, we’re looking forward to sharing the next phase of our EV journey very soon”.