Lexie Alford, better known as Lexie Limitless, and the New All-Electric Ford Explorer led an unprecedented convoy of vehicles across the finish line, marking the end of a record-setting 30,000 km journey—an event that signals a new era for Ford in Europe.
In a celebration dubbed the "world's ultimate test drive," Ford has put the New All-Electric Explorer up for sale in Europe. With prices starting from £39,875, customers can now start creating their own adventures.
This European-built SUV boasts a best-in-class driving range of 374 miles on a single charge and can recharge from 10-80 per cent in around 26 minutes using DC charging.
In Nice, France, on March 26, 2024, Lexie officially set the record for being the first person to circumnavigate the world in an all-electric vehicle, using the New All-Electric Ford Explorer. To celebrate this milestone, Ford released the price and specifications of the new Ford Explorer range, making the vehicle available to customers eager to embark on their own adventures, big or small.
Crossing the finish line alongside Lexie in Nice, the new Ford Explorer led a parade of iconic Ford vehicles, surrounded by the latest models shaping the company's forward-looking direction.
Jim Farley, Ford's CEO, said, "Ford aims to inject passion and emotion into electric vehicles in Europe. The new Explorer embodies Ford's unique character, evident in every car in this fantastic convoy. We're thrilled to launch this new all-electric passenger car designed specifically for European roads and customers, capable of taking you anywhere in the world."
The Explorer's epic journey spanned six continents, traversing 27 countries and covering over 30,000 kilometres, all powered solely by electricity. From overcoming power outages in Africa to navigating the challenging terrains of the Atacama desert, this journey showcased the potential of electric vehicles.
Martin Sander, general manager of Ford Model Europe, said, "Lexie's journey served as the ultimate test drive for our new Ford Explorer, facing every weather and road condition and tackling various charging scenarios. It embodies the true 'can do' spirit of our company, pushing boundaries not just for ourselves but for the world's charging infrastructure. Today's finish line crossing demonstrates the capabilities of the new all-electric Ford Explorer, and we're excited for customers to experience it firsthand."
Throughout her journey, Lexie relied on a pre-production version of the Ford Explorer, now available for order. The vehicle used a variety of charging solutions, from AC wall outlets to DC fast chargers and a portable battery pack.
Lexie utilised features such as MegaConsole cabin storage, heated and massaging driver's seats, and voice-activated SYNC Move infotainment, all standard on both Ford Explorer and Ford Explorer Premium models.
"On this epic adventure, I met incredible people from many corners of the world and experienced 27 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 honour of a lifetime to be trusted by Ford to circumnavigate the globe in the New All-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 is Ford’s first passenger EV developed and built in Europe, blending German engineering, American style, and superior standard specification, including battery electric powertrains for zero-tailpipe emissions while driving. With a range of up to 374 miles on a single charge, it's ready for any adventure.
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 will have easy access to charging points through the FordPass app or Plug & Charge technology.
The Explorer can accelerate faster than a Ford Performance Focus ST, with 340 PS meaning 62 mph can be reached in 5.3 seconds by the AWD model. Explorer AWD can also tow up to 1,200 kg. All this is achieved using seamless electric propulsion for ultimate refinement, complemented by luxurious standard specifications.
With its combination of innovative features and top-notch performance, the new all-electric Ford Explorer is poised to redefine the electric vehicle landscape in Europe.
To see and learn more on the New All-Electric Explorer, click here!
