Ford is preparing to manufacture the first electric Explorer models this summer, with expectations for the initial deliveries to reach customers by August. Ford also anticipates commencing production of its second EV by the end of 2024.
Following a delay in the launch of its all-electric Explorer, Ford endeavors to commence production in June, approximately eight months later than initially projected.
Ford unveiled the electric version of its top-selling SUV in Europe in March last year. The electric SUV is the first EV resulting from a partnership with Volkswagen in 2020 to utilize its MEB platform. Ford describes the electric Explorer as combining German engineering with striking American style.
The Explorer will be the first EV manufactured at Ford’s upgraded Cologne factory, which underwent approximately $2 billion in investments for electric vehicle production.
Despite the initial hype and promise for production to begin at the end of 2023, the start of production was delayed by about eight months by Ford due to a new battery standard, with sales opening in early 2024.
The series production of Ford’s second EV based on VW’s platform is planned by the end of 2024.
The electric Ford Explorer is a “road-trip ready” mid-size SUV, featuring a massive movable touchscreen, 470 liters of storage, and Ford’s advanced driver assist. It will be available in Europe in two trims – the Explorer and Explorer Premium, with the base trim expected to start under $50,000 (€45,000).
Ford aims to transition to all-electric in Europe by 2035, with a lineup that will include nine EVs. The electric Explorer is expected to play a significant role in Ford’s goal to sell 600,000 EVs annually in Europe by 2026.
Ford plans electric Explorer, second EV production
Ford plans to start building the Explorer EV in June 2024, with the first deliveries now scheduled for August. Series production of its second EV based on VW’s platform is also planned by the end of 2024.
Electrek’s Take
Ford’s delay in EV production in Europe may set it further behind amidst the growing competition from other automakers. As rivals are launching new models at a rapid pace, the eight-month delay is critical for Ford in transitioning to electric vehicles and preparing for an electric future.
With competitors likely to ramp up output by the time the electric Explorer begins rolling out, Ford may face challenges in pricing and market competitiveness, especially as other automakers announce significant price reductions on their electric vehicles.
For Ford’s transition to EVs, particularly in the US, the launch of an electric three-row SUV and next-gen electric pickup is highly anticipated. However, questions remain about Ford’s ability to compete amid the evolving electric vehicle landscape.
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