This week on EV Rider we’re showing you some electrified Fords that the Blue Oval has – at least for now – decided against selling in the United States.
In the U.S., if you want a Ford with a plug, your currrent choices are the Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, eTransit or the Escape plug-in hybrid. But if you live in Europe, where EV adoption is happening faster, Ford has several more plug-in models to meet your needs.
Let’s start with one I think would sell really well here in the states, and that’s the Ford Ranger plug-in hybrid. It’s coming to Europe in the spring of 2025, however there are no announced plans to sell it stateside.
I’m absolutely stumped as to why Ford isn’t bringing this one to the states ASAP. It’s got a pure EV range of 28 miles, based on European testing. So figure maybe 21 miles or so per charge for the EPA’s test cycle.
When it’s time to switch back over to gas, it features Ford’s 2.3-litre EcoBoost and a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Depending on how it’s optioned the Ranger plug-in hybrid has a tow rating of up 7,700 pounds and a payload of just over a ton.
Better yet, the Ranger can be optioned to include a 6.9 kW power output option, which allows it to power worksites or serve as a backup power supply for your home.
Got VR? This episode is also available in 3D on YouTube VR and in 180-degree immersive video on Meta Quest TV.
Next, let’s take a look at Ford’s recently introduced Capri EV.
Unlike the sporty two-door many of us remember from the 1970s, this EV is an SUV that’s actually based on an EV platform shared with Volkswagen.
The RWD version rated for up to 389 miles per charge, which would probably translate to about 315 miles or so in EPA testing.
The AWD version has a peak charging speed of 185 kW and accelerates to 62 miles per hour in 5.3 seconds.
I think it would be a great addition to Ford’s U.S. line-up, although perhaps Ford is worried it might siphen some sales from the Mustang Mach-E.
Next up on our list of electric SUVs you’re not allowed to have in the U.S. is the Explorer, which Ford says quote, “combines German engineering with striking American style.”
Like the Capri, it’s also based on an EV platform shared with VW. Also like the Capri, the Explorer is available in either RWD or AWD drive and has similar specs.
To see all three in action, watch the video at the top of this post. What do you think? Should Ford bring any of these to the U.S.? Let us know in the YouTube comments.