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48 Phonebox Magazine | September 2025FORD EXPLORES NEW IDEASFord has fully embraced the electric revolution, just like a growing number of car manufacturers and its Explorer, which we drove recently, is the company%u2019s second all-electric SUV (sport utility vehicle) after the launch of the Mustang Mach-E a few years ago.So, for a car with only batteries for fuel and such impressive green credentials, it%u2019s amazing that it takes its name from the massive car with the same badge that smokes around US streets.It%u2019s a tough playground to be entering, the all-electric family crossover sector. Already there are well-known and highly successful cars available such as the Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Tesla Model Y and Peugeot E-2008, but the Explorer is a good example and has had some help from other car makers.Underneath the rugged but space-age bodywork lies an electric motor and batteries borrowed from Volkswagen%u2019s popular ID4 EV (electric vehicle). That presents a similar choice in terms of drivetrain %u2013 either a rear wheel drive or a dual motor all wheel drive version.Instead of an unnecessary grille at the front, in its place is a %u2018shield%u2019 style face showing the US company%u2019s bold vision of the future of its vehicle designs.It%u2019s quiet, of course, and gives the drive that new kind of electric car experience you%u2019d expect from behind the wheel. Get in, slide the satnav screen towards you and off you go. No noise, no fuss %u2013 and no exhaust out of the tail pipes.The Explorer is a whole new way forward for the blue oval brand, and Ford has fi rmly set its sights on the future of the electric family car with this model. Designed and built in Germany, the new vehicle paves the way for a wave of innovative EVs and sets the scene for a reinvention of the Ford brand in Europe. Forget that big US Explorer %u2013 here is the new way forward on this continent.Ford calls this an %u2018adventure-ready design%u2019 and it certainly comes with lots of space and storage for an adventurous family. There are 450 litres of cargo when all the seats are up, and that includes a lockable space under that 14.6-inch sliding satnav screen. There are more cubby holes throughout the interior including a large 17-litre space upfront, under the central armrest which can even hold a laptop.The whole family can be kept entertained while on the move thanks to compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while there%u2019s space for two mobile phones to charge wirelessly.The technology keeps coming too, especially upfront. Both front seats are heated, as is the steering wheel for when it%u2019s cold outside, and the climate control allows the driver and front passenger to set diff erent temperatures. The driver%u2019s seat has a massage facility to keep him or her comfortable and alert while behind the wheel.Coming back to a locked car is simple with remote keyless central locking and a tailgate that opens and lifts by moving your foot around under the bumper %u2013 useful if your hands are full of shopping or luggage.It%u2019s a big car, but it feels neat and easy to drive on the road. There%u2019s plenty of glass ahead of you for a great view out front, while large side windows do a similar job. Only the rear has limited visibility, so you have to be careful when reversing.It%u2019s quick and nimble on the road and has excellent regenerative brakes which harvest energy while slowing the car down before junctions and roundabouts. Sharp steering and a fi rm ride with minimal body roll helps to enhance the enjoyable experience.As UK drivers become more used to EVs and the electric revolution, charging must %u2013 and is %u2013 becoming simpler and quicker. The Explorer%u2019s charging times can be scheduled to wait for the most economical time of day to power up, using the cheapest tariff s while, out on the road, the car can be programmed to select the most convenient places to stop for a top up at a service station public charger.The car off ers access to more than 21,000 charge points across the UK using the company%u2019s Blue Oval Charging Network. There%u2019s also half a million charge points across Europe to tap into.If you are in a hurry and want to get to your destination quickly, the Explorer can recharge up to 80% of its battery in 25 minutes %u2013 that%u2019s time for a comfort break and a cup of coff ee.Safety is addressed too, in the form of Assisted Lane Change for smooth, safer manoeuvring on dual carriageways and motorways and a system called Clear Exit Assist which warns of approaching cyclists before you open the doors in a busy street.In keeping with its looks, the Ford Explorer is packed with high-end technology which will bring a new wave of drivers out from petrol cars %u2013 like its US cousin %u2013 and into a brave new world of EVs.AT A GLANCE:Power: 340 hpTop speed: 112 mph0-62mph: 5.3 secsRange: 374 miles (extended version)CO2: 0 g/kmPrice: from %u00a340,000