Ford has made significant updates to its electric Explorer and Capri Standard Range EVs, introducing a new lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery and an improved electric motor. These changes unlock longer driving ranges, more power, and what's expected to be a lower price tag.
The electric Ford Explorer and Capri, both built on Volkswagen's MEB platform, received these key improvements, increasing driving range by up to 70 km (43 miles) and boosting torque for quicker acceleration. Both models can now drive over 400 km (248 miles) on a full charge, with the electric Explorer Standard Range model offering a WLTP driving range of up to 444 km (275 miles), while the Capri Standard Range can now drive up to 464 km (288 miles).
The enhanced electric motor provides up to 190 PS and 350 Nm of max torque, allowing both models to accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 8 seconds. Ford's electric vehicle lineup in Europe includes the Explorer, Capri, Mustang Mach-E, Puma Gen-E, and E-Tourneo Corrier.
The company is in the middle of a restructuring in Europe, where it has leaned heavily on its partnership with Volkswagen and is now turning to Renault to help it compete. With lower-cost, oftentimes more advanced EVs launching, Ford has struggled to keep pace in Europe as brands like BYD continue to steal market share.
As part of its efforts to revamp the brand in Europe, Ford is partnering with Renault to develop more affordable EVs, including two new Ford-branded electric vehicles based on Renault's Ampere platform. The first of which is expected to be an electric successor to the Fiesta, while the second is rumoured to be a smaller EV crossover, much like the Renault 4.
With these updates and new partnerships, Ford aims to regain its footing in the European market and establish itself as a major player in the growing electric vehicle industry.
These updates demonstrate Ford's commitment to improving its electric vehicles and making them more competitive in the market. By investing in new battery technology and motor improvements, Ford can offer customers more range, power, and value for their money.
