By Ian Strachan.
Model by model, Ford is changing perceptions of some of its iconic products from the past.
A Ford Mustang is no longer a growling V8 450 horsepower monster, but is now a respectable, eco-friendly all electric offering. The Ford Capri is more conservative than the boy-racer Capris of the 1970s, and now the Ford Explorer has thrown off the image of a hefty truck loved by our transatlantic cousins to an all-electric super-smooth SUV.
The fully-electric Explorer is an entirely different animal to its all-American antecedents. With zero emissions and a range of up to 323 miles this is the epitome of clean motoring.
But don’t think for a moment that the Explorer is boring, just because it’s environmentally responsible. The twin motor, all-wheel-drive version that I tested will take you from 0-60 mph in a tad over five seconds. Its electric motors give you a more than adequate 340 bhp and a top speed, where allowed, of 112 mph.
Despite its performance, the Explorer is extremely composed, with a ride that’s engaging but confident, and a very pleasant cruiser. Obviously there will be a range penalty if you take full advantage of the Explorer’s performance, and its motorway range is estimated at 257 miles.
It’s also a good looker. My test car came in an attractive Magnetic Grey premium paint finish (£800 extra) which gave it a stand-out quality. Its side aspect is helped by stylish 20-inch machined alloys and black wheel arches. From the rear the multiple signature tail-lights make it stand out from the crowd.
The interior is also very clean and pleasant, with good trim materials and clear controls. The massive central 14.6 inch touchscreen to control sound, climate and navigation is big enough for a home cinema and is the most prominent feature of interior, but I like it. It’s easy to use and because it’s so big you can make minor adjustments without taking your eyes off the road. It also moves position for the convenience of the driver.
Specification on the Explorer is good, with two-zone automatic temperature control, heated driver and passenger seats with massage function, panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging pad, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera, 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, hands free tailgate, powered driver’s seat and heated, electric door mirrors with puddle lights.
My test car came with a £1,300 driver assistance pack that included head-up display, driver alert, lane centring with lane change assist, park assist and a 360 degree parking camera. The car was also fitted with a heat pump (£1,050) to heat the car on cold days without the normal severe impact on battery range.
The Ford Explorer is a good choice for anyone looking to buy a fully electric vehicle for the first time. It’s competitve on value – the on-the-road price for the Explorer in Premium AWD spec – is £53,985, and you get a well-specified, good performing comfortable car with lower ownership and running costs than its petrol-powered competitors.
