Electric driving without compromising on towing capacity
Electric SUVs are becoming increasingly popular, but for many business drivers and caravan owners, one question remained important for a long time: what about the towing capacity? Ford is now clearly addressing this. The updated model year versions of the fully electric Ford Explorer and Ford Capri receive a significantly higher towing capacity, up to a maximum of 2,200 kilograms of braked towing capacity. Ford also confirms a towbar download of 90 kilograms.
This positions Ford's two models as serious electric towing vehicles within the SUV segment. For entrepreneurs, business drivers, and active users who regularly take a caravan, trailer, or bike rack with them, electric driving becomes more practical.
The updates go beyond just towing power. Ford combines the improvements with new battery technology, additional driver assistance systems, and smart features that enhance the usability of the electric SUVs.
Ford turns Explorer and Capri into electric workhorses
Ford has long had a strong reputation as a manufacturer of towing vehicles. The Kuga Plug-in Hybrid has grown into a popular plug-in hybrid in recent years, partly due to its practical usability.
With the new updates, Ford is now clearly translating that approach to its fully electric models.
The new figures:
Explorer and Capri Standard Range RWD: 1,800 kg towing capacity
Explorer and Capri Extended Range RWD: 2,000 kg towing capacity
Explorer and Capri AWD: 2,200 kg towing capacity
Especially the increase in the Standard Range models stands out. The maximum towing capacity increases by 80 percent compared to previous versions.
Additionally, the maximum towbar download rises from 70 to 90 kilograms. This makes a difference for users of bike racks with heavy e-bikes or extra luggage.
Why higher towing capacities are important
The market for electric cars is shifting from urban use to multifunctional daily use. Entrepreneurs and business drivers want not only to drive emission-free but also to retain the same practical capabilities as with a fuel car.
It is precisely here that the offering of electric SUVs often faced limitations. Many EVs perform well but have a limited towing capacity. This makes them less interesting for:
business users with trailers;
caravan owners;
sporty users with boat trailers;
professionals who regularly transport materials.
Ford responds to this need by positioning the Explorer and Capri as versatile electric SUVs that can do more than just commuting.
New LFP batteries enhance usability
Ford also combines the model year update with new LFP battery technology. These lithium iron phosphate batteries are less dependent on scarce raw materials and are known for their long lifespan.
The range of the Explorer Standard Range increases to a maximum of 444 kilometers. For the Capri Standard Range, that rises to 463 kilometers. Ford notes that the WLTP figures are intended for comparison and that the actual range may vary.
This is relevant for business drivers. Not only because of sustainability but also due to potential benefits for operating costs, usability, and residual value.
Smarter software and more user-friendliness
Ford also seizes the update to improve the digital systems of both models. The updated SYNC Move infotainment system now runs on Android-based software and features a more modern design with improved user-friendliness.
In addition, Ford adds driver assistance systems that are particularly useful in everyday practical situations. Reversing Assist helps with difficult reversing in tight situations. Trained Park Assist can save parking maneuvers and automatically repeat them later.
This makes the Explorer and Capri not only stronger as electric towing vehicles but also more user-friendly for entrepreneurs who are on the road every day.
Electric driving becomes more practical
Ford previously also introduced one-pedal drive and Pro Power Onboard. With this Vehicle-to-Load function, users can power external devices directly from the car.
Think, for example, of:
charging electric bikes;
using electric tools;
power supply on location;
outdoor activities with extra power needs.
These applications show that electric SUVs are increasingly being developed as full-fledged alternatives to traditional SUVs.
Ford focuses on business EV strategy
With the Explorer and Capri, Ford targets users who expect more from an electric car than low emissions. Practical usability, flexibility, and user-friendliness are becoming increasingly important in the EV segment.
For business drivers and entrepreneurs, this can be an important development. Especially now that more and more organizations are combining sustainability with mobility requirements where flexibility remains essential.
The updated Ford Explorer and Ford Capri are, according to Ford, available for order immediately, including the recently introduced Collection versions.
