Ford reveals electric Explorer based on Volkswagen platform

Ford revealed its fully electric Explorer to the public today which is said to be the first in its wave of EVs that will forge the way for brand in Europe.

To achieve its goal, the US-based carmaker enlisted Volkswagen as its partner and set about replacing the ID.4 SUV’s body with a one designed by Ford.

That means the Explorer inherits the same battery and electric motor setup found on the German marque’s Modular Electric Drive matrix (MEB) which is also shared by Audi, Seat, and Skoda.

Ford didn’t state what powertrain configurations will be offered on the Explorer but Auto Express says the entry level model will come with a 55kWh battery that provides power to a 125kW rear-mounted single electric motor, achieving 351km of range.

Also on offer is a mid-specification 170kW single motor and 82kWh battery option capable of 539km range along with a top-of-the-line 250kW dual-motor, all-wheel drive setup using the aforementioned battery to provide 491km of range.

By this point, you may be wondering why the American carmaker decided to partner up instead of using its own chassis such as the one found under the Mustang Mach-e which is also sold in Europe. However, the answer to that isn’t exactly clear.

Nevertheless, the electric Explorer boasts five seats across two-rows and is “fully equipped to set families on the road to adventure.”

With regard to styling, cues from the petrol-powered US-made Explorer have been carried over like its smiling front fascia, swept-forward C-pillar, and tail light design.

As for the inside, there’s a combined storage capacity of 450 litres including a 17 litre storage console between the driver and front passenger.

In the centre of the dashboard sits a moveable 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen that can slide up and down to suit the driver. Storage for two smartphones, a wireless device charger as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity also come as standard.

Driver assistance systems include lane change assist, clear exit assist which warns of approaching road users before opening doors, and more.

New Zealand won’t be getting the electric Ford Explorer but its not like we’re missing out – unless you’re a diehard Blue Oval fan – considering the ID.4 and ID.5 are on sale locally.