Ford refreshes electric Explorer with extra range and smarter tech

The European electric car market is crowded, and standing out requires constant improvement. Ford revealed several updates for its electric Explorer, a crossover designed specifically for the European driver. The new version addresses previous complaints by adding a better battery, more power, and smarter technology.

One of the biggest changes involves the Explorer Standard Range model. Ford swapped out the old battery for a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) pack. This type of battery is known for being durable and cost-effective. Along with the new battery, the car gets an upgraded electric motor that delivers 188 hp (140 kW) and 258 lb-ft of torque.

Performance numbers show a clear improvement over the older version. The extra 20 hp (15 kW) and 22 lb-ft of torque help the electric Explorer reach 62 mph in exactly 8.0 seconds - nearly a full second faster than the previous model. Range is also better than before. The updated powertrain allows the car to travel up to 276 miles on a full charge based on WLTP testing - an increase of 37 miles compared to the earlier version.

Ford also focused on making the Explorer safer and easier to drive in traffic. The crossover now features an Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control system that includes Traffic Light Recognition. This clever tech can see red or yellow lights ahead and automatically slow the vehicle down or bring it to a full stop. For those who struggle with narrow driveways, a new Reversing Assist feature remembers the last 50 meters the car traveled forward. It can then take over the steering to back the car out of tight spots.

Parking becomes even simpler with a feature called Trained Park Assist. Owners can teach the vehicle a specific parking path up to 50 meters long. Once the car learns the route, it can park itself by controlling the steering, acceleration, and braking. Inside the cabin, a massive 14.6-inch touchscreen runs on a new Android-based system. Ford says this makes the menus smoother to navigate and easier to read while driving. The car also gains a one-pedal driving mode, letting the driver slow down simply by lifting their foot off the accelerator.

Safety technology gets a major boost with a system called Driver State Assist, which keeps an eye on the person behind the wheel to ensure they are paying attention. If the driver stops responding, the car can take action. It will turn on the hazard lights, bring the vehicle to a safe stop, unlock the doors, and call for help.

The updated electric Explorer can also act as a mobile power station. A feature called Pro Power Onboard provides a power outlet in the trunk. There is also an optional adapter that plugs into the charging port on the outside of the car. These outlets provide 2.3 kW of electricity - enough to run a laptop, plug in some lights at a campsite, or even use power tools in areas where there are no wall plugs.

For buyers who want a more distinct look, Ford introduced a special edition called the Explorer Collection. This version comes in a unique Cactus Grey paint color and sits on 20-inch wheels with a Satin Black finish. To complete the look, Ford added a black roof, black skid plates, and black graphics on the body. Inside, the Black Onyx interior gets bright orange accents on the seats and dashboard. The seat inserts use a special "2D knit" material that's similar to high-end sports clothing, giving the cabin a modern, sporty vibe.

The new Explorer is available to order from now on, with prices starting from $48,457 for the entry-level model in the UK. The top-of-the-range AWD model with the largest battery starts from $68,644 before any local incentives are applied.

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