Similar to other automakers, The Ford Motor Company has lofty plans for its electric vehicle (EV) future. It’s carving its own space in the EV race by hoping to dispel myths about the electrification of vehicles through education and a lineup of vehicles that promise to provide a similar, fun driving experience like its gasoline-powered models.
This article is a continuance of our Electric Vehicle Race series that explores the present offerings and future EV plans of major automakers.
Ford’s Myth Busting and EVs
In addition to Ford’s part in advancing the prevalence of EVs by manufacturing the vehicle, it aims to change public perception.
“The capability of all-electric vehicles has changed significantly recently and hence the need for education to help people making the switch. We’re in a period of massive change which is exciting but could be daunting for some people,” said Darren Palmer, a global product development director at Ford.
One of the main concerns identified by Ford are EV’s ability to handle extreme road conditions, such as frigid temperatures and snowy, ice-covered roads. In response, it released this winter test video demo of an EV battling the elements. For drivers believing EVs lack the amount of torque to produce a similar driving experience than the internal combustion engine, the fun-to-drive video aims to squash those feelings.
Current Ford EV Offerings
If you look at a list of Ford’s current electric lineup, you’ll see a small range of plug-in and conventional hybrids. The 2020 Fusion Hybrid touts an extra boost of energy from its gas engine and 88kW electric motor. While the 2020 Fusion Plug-in Hybrid offers multiple driving modes with gas, electric or a combination of the two. With the new 2020 Escape Ford revives the hybrid model. The 2020 Explorer Limited Hybrid boasts a 500-mile range in between fill ups.
The EV Future of Ford
Later in the year, Ford plans to release a Mustang-inspired, all-electric SUV. With a 370-mile (600km) range with a single charge, there’s lots of hype around the release of this vehicle.
In a special “Go Electric” event in Amsterdam, Ford announced 16 electrified vehicle models. The Kuga SUV will feature a mild, full- and plugin- hybrid powertrains with the latter having more than 31 miles (50km) electric range. The Explorer Plug-in Hybrid will offer 25 miles (40km) of range.
The all-electric lineup includes the Transit, expected to launch in 2021. In July 2019, Ford unveiled a demonstration of an all-electric F-150 prototype towing 10 double-decker rail cars and 42 F-150s—more than 1 million pounds. Yet, its release is still a few years away.
More information on the coming EV lineup can be found in this Ford press release.