At the end of last year we got the chance to see the new, fully electric Ford Explorer on tour across the UK: @planetauto/a-first-look-at-the-all-new-fully-electric-ford-explorer
Now it’s finally launched, and this time, we were invited by Evans Halshaw to take one away for review – so of course not only did we do that, we road tripped in it too (keep your eyes peeled for it) Ford has developed this EV in partnership with VW, and even though it’s based on the ID Buzz, Ford have taken this time to tweak, upgrade and generally Fordify this SUV, and having been behind the wheel, we agree it was worth the wait.
Although it draws on its American Heritage (just look at that design) it’s been designed for European roads, so let’s take a deeper look at what this means.
What’s in a name? Well, the Ford Explorer is a name steeped in history, representing rugged capability and adventure. Now, with its electric counterpart, Ford has merged its American heritage with German engineering, resulting in a sleek, modern SUV with seats for five and plenty of tech to boot. Built at Ford’s new Cologne Electric Vehicle Centre, this version of the Explorer is all about family adventures with a sustainable twist.
And it’s not just a rehash of the classic Explorer design—it’s a fresh take on a familiar shape, one that leans into the future of electric mobility. When you first approach the vehicle, it’s hard not to notice the bold exterior styling. Ford has done away with the traditional front grille, replacing it with a sleek, closed-off design that feels much more aerodynamic. This isn’t just about aesthetics; the smooth lines help improve range by cutting through the air more efficiently.
The Explorer’s boxy shape remains intact, providing that rugged SUV vibe, but with modern touches like LED headlights and dynamic matrix LED with glare-free high beams on premium trims. It’s clear that this is an SUV designed for adventure, yet sophisticated enough to blend into urban landscapes. Ford has gone for a clean, confident look that doesn’t scream “electric,” but rather whispers it through subtle design choices.
On the practical side, the all-electric Explorer features a generous 490 litres of storage space, including the innovative MegaConsole, which can hold everything from snacks to gadgets, ensuring you’re always prepared for the road ahead. And let’s not forget the hands-free tailgate (available with the Driver Assist Pack), which makes loading and unloading hassle-free, especially when your hands are full after a shopping spree or when juggling gear for an outdoor adventure.
Of course, the real excitement lies under the skin. Ford has packed the Electric Explorer with serious electric power. Available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) variants, the Explorer gives you the flexibility to choose a setup that best fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re planning to stick to city streets or head off the beaten path, there’s a version of the Explorer to suit your needs.
The AWD version boasts an impressive 340 PS, giving it a 0-100 km/h time of just 5.3 seconds—yes, you read that right. Despite being an SUV, the electric torque makes acceleration feel seamless and fast, something you’ll appreciate whether overtaking on the motorway or zipping through traffic in town. It’s sporty without losing the refined ride you expect from an SUV.
Ford promises an impressive range of over 370 miles (WLTP) on the Extended Range RWD model, meaning long road trips are now more achievable than ever. Charging is quick too; the AWD version supports 185kW fast charging, taking the battery from 10% to 80% in just 26 minutes. Imagine stopping for a comfort break, and by the time you’re ready to hit the road again, your Explorer is charged and ready to go. Ford’s partnership with IONITY and Allego ensures you’ll have access to 600,000+ charging points across Europe, making range anxiety a thing of the past.
On the road, the Electric Explorer doesn’t just feel like an SUV—it feels like a Ford, and that’s an important distinction. Ford’s hallmark has always been about delivering fun-to-drive vehicles, and despite the shift to electric, they’ve carried that ethos forward. During our review, the Explorer AWD felt well-balanced, with quick, responsive steering and minimal body roll, even on winding roads.
Thanks to the low centre of gravity, courtesy of the floor-mounted battery pack, the Explorer feels planted and stable, even at higher speeds. The suspension has been tuned for European roads, providing comfort without sacrificing agility. It’s not a sports car, but for a mid-size SUV, it handles with surprising nimbleness. For those planning off-road adventures, the AWD system is ready for rougher terrains and inclement weather, while the RWD version offers a more economical choice for everyday driving.
And if you’re thinking about towing, the Explorer AWD can handle up to 1,200 kg, meaning you can easily tow a trailer or small caravan for those longer weekend getaways.
Inside, it’s all about comfort and technology. As soon as you step into the cabin, you’re greeted by the large, centrally positioned 14.6-inch SYNC Move touchscreen, which can be adjusted for height to suit your needs. Whether you’re adjusting navigation or checking on battery status, this touchscreen is the hub for controlling most of the vehicle’s functions.
Ford has done an excellent job of integrating tech into the Explorer without making it feel overwhelming. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, allowing you to connect your smartphone effortlessly. There’s also a wireless charging pad for your devices, keeping everything charged and within easy reach.
The heated and massaging front seats were a welcome touch during our time with this EV, especially on longer journeys. And the sound system—especially the 10-speaker B&O audio system in the Premium version—made road trips even more enjoyable, providing crisp sound throughout the cabin.
As for interior space, there’s no shortage of room for passengers and cargo. The second row provides ample legroom, and the panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, adding to the sense of space. Whether you're driving through the city or cruising down the motorway, the cabin feels airy and relaxed—a perfect place to enjoy the quiet hum of electric power.
Ford has packed the Electric Explorer with over 15 standard driver assistance features, ensuring peace of mind whether you’re navigating tight urban streets or cruising on the open road. Some highlights include Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, which adjusts your speed to match traffic, and Clear Exit Warning, designed to prevent dooring accidents with cyclists.
One standout feature is the 360-degree camera, which provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle, making parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces a breeze. Another innovation we appreciated was the Assisted Lane Change technology, which helps you safely switch lanes with ease—a great addition for motorway driving.
After spending time in the Electric Explorer, it’s clear that Ford has designed this SUV to be more than just another electric vehicle—it’s a bold statement about the future of the brand. Combining rugged capability with the latest technology, the Electric Explorer is a versatile, adventure-ready SUV that’s just as comfortable on city streets as it is on the open road.
Thank you all, and enjoy!
Annabelle 😊