Ford Explorer: Everything you need to know about the new EV
The new Explorer is a very important car for Ford. It might be an old name, but everything about this electric vehicle is new, blending innovative tech, impressive electric drivetrains and a sleek stand-out look into a single package.
It’s now available to order too and, costing from less than £400 per month, represents excellent value if you’re looking to lease.
In this article, we’ll delve into all the key elements of the new Explorer you need to know if you’re considering one. From drivetrain options to trim levels, let’s have an explore of the Explorer.
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Ford Explorer: Freshly designed from the ground up
The fabulous Mustang Mach-E was Ford’s first foray into the mainstream EV market, but to really offer mass appeal it also needed to create a more affordable offering. Enter the Explorer.
With traditional two-box SUV styling, this is a brand-new car from a design point of view. It doesn’t borrow looks or design cues from other vehicles in the Ford range, immediately standing out as something a little bit different.
Keen to produce an electric vehicle that fits the bill for a wide-ranging audience, the Explorer is actually the first EV to have traversed the world while undergoing testing. Visiting Europe, Australia, South America, North America and Africa, it covered more than 30,000km.
Looking at the dimensions and price of the Explorer, it really feels like Ford will be on to a winner. At 4.4 metres in length, it remains a relatively compact vehicle, but the electric drivetrain allows the cabin to remain uncluttered and spacious.
It’s the perfect car for existing Ford fans considering an EV; whether it’s a Focus or Kuga, the Explorer feels like a natural upgrade for those considering their first electric car.
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What drivetrain and battery options are available?
Three battery options are offered. Kicking off the range is the 52kWh Standard Range option, which produced 170PS and is available in rear-wheel drive only. Offering a range of 239 miles, this model offers great value for money and will be available to order later this year.
Two Extended Range variants also exist from launch; the 77kWh and 79kWh options. The former is rear-wheel drive and produces 286PS and offers 374 miles of range, while the larger 79kWh offers 340PS battery comes kitted out with an all-wheel drive system.
All models can also regain an 80% charge in 28 minutes (or 26 minutes for the all-wheel drive variant) if an ultra-rapid charger is used.
This means range drops slightly to 329 miles, but adds a clever system that can split power across both axles, adding traction. The towing capacity of this variant is also 1,200kg – impressive for an EV of this size.
To maximise range, an optional heat pump is available. This ensures you’ll be able to take full advantage of your potential range on cold days through warming the cabin more efficiently. Explorer also offers pre-conditioning, allowing you to optimise the battery before your journey to further maximise range.
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What about trim level choices and optional extras?
Ford has kept things simple. At launch, you’ll be able to choose between two levels of trim: Select and Premium.
Select models feature 19in alloy wheels, Ford’s latest 14.6in SYNC sliding infotainment screen with wireless smartphone integration, powered and heated front seats, wireless phone charging, a heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control and a heated steering wheel.
A seven-speaker premium sound system with an integrated Soundbar is also standard on Select models.
Another Explorer party trick lies within its centre console. There’s a modular storage area called “Megaconsole” that offers enough room for large handbags, a laptop and multiple 1.5L water bottles.
There’s also a neat secure storage compartment behind the tilting glass infotainment system. “My private Locker” is a lockable storage area that enables you to hide valuable items.
Plumping for the Premium trim, you’ll enjoy a range of enhanced features including 20in alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a 10-speaker B&O sound systems, hands-free tailgate, ambient lighting and Matrix LED headlights.
Other options for both trims includes the Driver Assistance Pack. This gives you a head-up display, lane change assist, park assist, a 360-degree camera and a power-operated tailgate (on the Select models, this latter feature is standard on the Premium grade).
When is it available?
The Explorer has been an eagerly anticipated car, and order books are now open. You’ll find the UK’s very best Explorer lease deals on Leasing.com, with the first deliveries due to commence in the coming months.
You can check out and compare prices right now by hitting the button below.