Electric Ford Explorer Completes Global Expedition

Lexie Alford pilots Ford Explorer EV around the world, proving EVs’ robust capabilities over 18,641 miles.

In the early stages of electric vehicles (EVs), they were often the subject of jokes. Back then, the Nissan Leaf was practically the only EV that received significant recognition, until Tesla introduced the Model S. Nowadays, EVs offer impressive driving ranges and can navigate challenging terrains. Demonstrating this capability, a Ford Explorer EV recently completed a global expedition, proving that EVs can match the performance of traditional vehicles.

Lexie Alford has been shattering records left and right. At just 21 years old, she became the youngest person to visit every country in the world, and she recently piloted the Explorer EV on a global tour. The journey spanned over 18,641 miles.

The expedition concluded in Nice, France, a nod to Aloha Wanderwell’s pioneering journey around the world in the 1920s in a Ford Model T. Alford’s trip is yet another remarkable achievement for Ford.

While there might be concerns about the spacing of fast-charging stations in the US and the readiness of our charging infrastructure for a surge in EVs, some parts of the world lack fast charging options entirely. This meant Alford had to rely on the Ford Explorer EV’s 2.2-kW charging capability, waiting for a full charge before she could proceed to a station with faster charging options.

Alford’s six-month global trek in the EV turned the vehicle into her home and pushed its capabilities to the limit, dealing with both challenging terrains and the constraints of charging and driving range.

Following Alford’s journey, Ford released the Explorer EV in the UK, available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) variants, and with options for single or dual motors. Buyers can choose between a standard or extended range battery, with the ability to charge up to 80% in just 26 minutes using a DC fast charger.

The Explorer EV boasts a driving range of 374 miles according to the WLTP rating system, which is more stringent than the EPA’s. The dual-motor version offers 330 horsepower, while the single-motor variant provides 278 horsepower, with both models delivering 402 lb-ft of torque. This makes the electric Explorer well-suited for towing and off-road adventures.

Ford has delayed the production of the American version of this electric SUV by a few months, with production expected to start before the end of the year and a potential launch in the US in early 2025.