The Greens will have a good time seeing red at the sight of the latest Explorer - the first to cross the Atlantic - because it is much cleaner than some city cars at the wheel of which these wrongdoers move. Ford's XXL SUV can thus enter low-emission zones prohibited for cars with combustion engines. His secret boot: a plug-in hybrid engine. This technology, which for many motorists combines the best of both worlds, makes it possible to cover several tens of kilometers in electric power and offers the versatility of a conventional vehicle.
Rouffignac Bernard
Under a distinguished body which testifies to a found inspiration, the new Explorer can afford to roll mechanics. It boasts a power of 457 hp and a generous torque of 840 Nm thanks to the combination of a 3-liter turbo V6 with direct injection of 357 hp gasoline and a 100 hp electric machine. The latter is powered by a 13.6 kWh battery, providing an electric range of 42 km.
Exemption from TVS
Sign of the progress of electrified technologies, we can hold a vigorous acceleration (up to 130 km / h) without risking triggering the V6. Result: its official consumption is similar to that of a city car, barely 3.1 l / 100 km, which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 71 g / km. Theoretical values which depend on the uses. On a motorway route, we exceeded 12 liters after exhausting the battery and activating the recharge mode while driving. During the week, if each trip remains within this limit and if you have a charging station at home and at your office, the Explorer will not consume gasoline. However, full recharging requires almost 6 hours on a domestic socket; 4:20 a.m. on a Wallbox. Companies benefit from an exemption from TVS for three years and from free registration in many regions.
Rouffignac Bernard
Well positioned compared to its competitors, the Explorer multiplies its talents: plethora of standard equipment, a refined finish, state-of-the-art driver assistance technologies, a layout of 7 seats in 3 rows, an ability to tow trailers up to 2,500 kg and sports performance, 100 km / h are reached in 6 seconds.
Technical sheet
Engines: V6 turbo petrol, 2,956 cm3, 357 hp + 1 electric motor (cumulative power: 457 hp)
Transmission: Integral, auto. 10 speed
Dimensions: L. 5.04, l. 2.10, h. 1.77 m
Consumption: 3.1 l / 100 km
CO2 emissions: 71 g / km
Speed: 230 km / h
Price: from 77,000 €