New Ford Explorer, First EV to Circumnavigate the Globe, Now on Sale

NICE, France – Adventurer Lexie Alford (@LexieLimitless) set the official record of being the first person to circumnavigate the globe in an electric vehicle using the new all-electric Ford Explorer.

To celebrate their Charge Around The Globe, Ford has confirmed the price and specifications of the new Ford Explorer range, officially making the EV available to customers who are ready to make their own adventures, whether large or small.

Crossing the finish line in Nice, France, Lexie and the new Ford Explorer led a convoy of iconic Ford vehicles, flanked by current models that are shaping the visionary future direction of the company.

“Ford wants to bring passion and emotion to electric vehicles in Europe. There are enough boring cars and SUVs out there. The new Explorer represents Ford’s unique character, which is stamped on every car in this fantastic convoy,” said Jim Farley, CEO of Ford, who attended the celebration. “We’re proud to launch this new all-electric passenger car designed specifically for Europe’s roads and customers, and obviously capable of taking you anywhere in the world.”

The Explorer’s incredible journey crossed six continents, drove through 27 countries and covered more than 30,000 kilometres, all on electric power alone. Battling power outages in Africa, a lack of charging infrastructure in the Atacama desert of Chile, unmade roads, mountain passes and freezing conditions, the achievement proved just what is possible in an electric vehicle.

“Lexie’s journey has been the ultimate test drive for our new Ford Explorer, taking on every kind of weather and road condition, and dealing with just about every charging scenario,” said Martin Sander, general manager, Ford Model e Europe. "It embodies the true ‘can do’ spirit of this company, seizing this great opportunity to not only test ourselves but also the world’s charging infrastructure. Today’s crossing of the finish line proves just what you can do in the new all-electric Ford Explorer, and we’re delighted that customers will soon be able to find out for themselves.

“On this epic adventure, I met incredible people from many corners of the world and experienced 278 beautiful countries while behind the wheel. But this journey came with a unique set of challenges,” said Lexie, who also holds the world record for being the youngest person to visit every country in the world. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to be trusted by Ford to circumnavigate the globe in the electric Explorer, which has been like home for the last six months. I had the goal of pushing the limits of what’s possible to do in an EV and I’m proud to say I have!”

The new all-electric Explorer that is available to order from today has a driving range of up to 602km on a single charge.

Customers can choose either single motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) or dual motor all-wheel drive (AWD) powertrains, while a single motor RWD powertrain with standard-range NMC battery will be available too at a later date.

Charging from 10-80 per cent takes approximately 26 minutes using up to 185 kW DC fast charging for the AWD model. Explorer drivers across Europe can also easily access and pay for charging at more than 600,000 charging points within the BlueOval Charge Network using the FordPass app or innovative Plug & Charge technology.

It's not just charging that’s quick and simple. Explorer can accelerate faster than a Ford Performance Focus ST, with 340 PS meaning 100 km/h can be reached in 5.3 seconds by the AWD model. Explorer AWD can also tow up to 1,200 kg.

In addition to approximately 470 litres of combined storage including the 17-litre MegaConsole and the secure My Private Locker in the cabin, every Explorer features SYNC Move connected infotainment with an adjustable 14.6-inch centre touchscreen that can be raised and lowered through an arc of more than 30 degrees.

The new all-electric Explorer is the first vehicle to be assembled at the Ford Cologne EV Centre following a $2 billion dollar investment.