Can we expect an E-Ford Explorer?

Can Americans expect an E-Ford Explorer in the coming years?

After posting an operating loss of $722 million in the first quarter of 2023, Ford says its Model e electric vehicle business is operating “with a start-up intensity to build a profitable EV business” and a differentiated portfolio.

So far, that portfolio consists of the Mustang Mach-e crossover SUV, F-150 Lightning electric pickup, and E-Transit commercial van, at least in the US.

Ford released its new mid-size electric Explorer SUV in March, but only for Europe. The electric Explorer is a scaled-down version of Ford’s best-selling SUV in the US.

Rather than the full three-row SUV known to the US, the electric Explorer introduced in Europe is a five-seat two-row mid-size crossover. The electric Explorer is based on Volkswagen’s MEB platform, the first model that’s come from the relationship established in 2020.

Designed for “exploring in compact European cities and beyond,” the electric Explorer is less than 4.5 m (177 inches) long, which is even slightly smaller than Volkswagen ID.4 at 180.5 inches.

Compared to the gas-powered Explorer’s length of nearly 200 inches, the electric Explorer is over 2.5 feet smaller.