Ford Explorer EV Standard Range RWD

Overview

The Ford Explorer EV storms into the European market, aiming to shake up the family electric SUV scene! This Standard Range RWD variant is your entry ticket to Ford's all-electric vision, cleverly built on VW's MEB platform. It’s all about practical space and everyday usability, wrapped in that distinctive American-inspired Ford design. While full EU pricing is still under wraps as it's an announced model, expect it to be a competitive challenger. This Explorer is definitely one to watch if you're after a fresh-faced, zero-emissions family hauler.

What's New for 2025?

For 2025, the Ford Explorer EV is essentially brand spanking new for Europe! This isn't just a facelift; it's an entirely fresh model designed to woo European families over to electric. The Standard Range RWD trim kicks things off, showcasing Ford's new EV direction on this side of the pond. Built in Germany, it represents a significant step in Ford's electrification strategy, bringing a popular American nameplate to Europe with a bespoke electric powertrain and platform. Expect the latest Ford tech and a focus on practicality from the get-go.

Design & Exterior

This Euro-spec Explorer EV Standard Range RWD packs a punch with its bold, assertive stance, though it’s more compact than its American namesake. It measures 4468 mm in length, 1871 mm wide (excluding mirrors), and stands 1630 mm tall. You get a distinctive sealed-off "grille" or shield, sleek LED headlights, and robust SUV proportions. It’s got that rugged Ford DNA but tailored for European tastes and roads. This trim features clean lines and an aerodynamic profile, making it look ready for adventure even when parked.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the Explorer EV Standard Range RWD, and you'll find a cabin designed for the modern family, seating five comfortably. Cargo-wise, you're looking at a decent 450 litres in the boot, expanding to a generous 1422 litres with the rear seats folded flat. Sadly, no frunk here. The dashboard is dominated by a large, portrait-oriented SYNC Move touchscreen (likely 15-inch) that slides up and down, complemented by a crisp digital driver’s display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are expected as standard, ensuring seamless connectivity on your adventures.

Performance & Driving Experience

The Standard Range RWD Explorer EV isn't shy, with its single rear-mounted Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) churning out 125 kW of power and 310 Nm of instant torque. This setup propels you from 0-100 km/h in a respectable 9 seconds, topping out at 160 km/h. Being rear-wheel drive, it promises engaging handling for a family SUV. Expect a comfortable ride tuned for European roads, with selectable drive modes and adjustable regenerative braking to fine-tune your driving experience and help eke out extra range.

Range, Battery & Charging

Powering the Explorer EV Standard Range RWD is a 52 kWh usable battery pack, delivering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 323 km. Efficiency is rated at a solid 6.21 km/kWh. For charging, you get a standard 11 kW on-board AC charger via its CCS Type 2 port, meaning a full top-up at home takes roughly 5 hours. When you're out and about, it can guzzle down DC juice at up to 145 kW, taking it from 10-80% in around 25-30 minutes under ideal conditions.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While the official Euro NCAP rating for the Explorer EV is still pending, expect Ford to aim high. This family SUV will likely come packed with Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite. Standard features on the Standard Range RWD should include essentials like Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition. Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Blind Spot Information System, and a 360-degree camera will probably be available, potentially as part of an optional pack, ensuring peace of mind on every journey.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Ford Europe typically offers a comprehensive warranty package. Expect the Explorer EV Standard Range RWD to come with a general vehicle warranty of at least 2 years with unlimited kilometres. The crucial battery pack should be covered for 8 years or 160,000 km, guaranteeing at least 70% of its original capacity. Powertrain components usually align with the battery warranty. While specific complimentary maintenance plans vary by market, EVs generally require less upkeep than their petrol counterparts, promising lower running costs and good reliability.