The all-electric Ford Explorer will hit the market tentatively six months later than anticipated. Since the company disclosed to its workers at its Cologne plant recently on Thursday. As notified by Ford, it will suspend the launch of the electric Explorer.
Ford announced the electric version of its best-selling SUV in March, exclusively for the Europe market. It is worth noting here that this electric Explorer is developed on Volkswagen’s MEB platform, the same used for the ID.4 respectively.
Ford partnered with VW in 2020 and intended to launch two new EVs based on its platform. The aim is to expand and reinvent its brand in the region. Therefore, the forthcoming electric explorer “combines German engineering with striking American style,” according to Ford.
This Ford mid-size electric crossover is developed for family adventurers, this comprises of roughly approx 470 liters of storage. Apart from this, certain other features include a fully connected infotainment system. A private locker, and fast charge capabilities from 10% to 80% in about 25 minutes.
In addition to this, the Explorer will be the first electric vehicle built at Ford’s new Cologne EV facility in Germany. While by opening the unit in June, its first carbon-neutral assembly plant, executive chair Bill Ford said it’s “the start of a new generation of clean manufacturing and electric vehicles in Europe.”
Ford is delaying the launch until next summer
However, the production was expected to begin after the reopening. The news has been revealed by the industry source, Cologne-based media Kolnische Rundschau, Ford is delaying the launch until next summer.
According to Ford’s initial plan of action, it slowly increase the electric Explorer production into the new year. While the sales are estimated to start at the beginning of 2024.
The company notified its Cologne workers recently about the delay, by indicating new global safety rules for the vehicle’s powertrain. Whereas, the report does not mention the new safety rules. Also, doesn’t reveal Ford’s plans to “bring vehicles to this new standard onto the market worldwide.”
Therefore, because of this delay, those who looking to opt for the new electric Explorer will need to wait until next summer. The electric Explorer starts at 45,000 euros ($49.5K). Ford will seamlessly work with VW in Europe, they have plans to buy 1.2 million platforms over the next six years.
