Ford: The electric future of the Cologne company
In just two years, electrified models will make up the majority of Ford's product range. By the end of 2021, a total of 18 electrified variants will roll onto the market in Europe. The so-called mild hybrids also play a role in this calculation. In these, 48-volt technology supports the combustion engine. However, they cannot drive a meter [...]
Mild hybrids also play a role in this calculation. In these, 48-volt technology supports the combustion engine. However, they cannot travel one meter electrically.
In addition, Ford is currently focusing primarily on plug-in hybrids and full hybrids.
The Mustang Mach-E makes the start
The Mach-E will be the first fully electric model to be launched on the market next year. For the Mustang offshoot, the brand promises a range of 420 to a maximum of 650 kilometers, depending on battery capacity.
Further offerings will follow later, when the collaboration with Volkswagen can bear fruit. Based on VW's MEB platform, Ford plans to produce up to 600,000 electrified passenger cars.
SUV Kuga comes in three versions
The new Kuga is the first model to show how those responsible envision the electric future. The SUV, which has grown in all areas, is being launched in three (partially) electrified versions.
In addition to the EcoBlue hybrid diesel with 48-volt technology, the range also includes a plug-in hybrid and, from the end of the year, a full hybrid.
The plug-in version combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, resulting in a system output of 225 hp (165 kW). A pleasantly operating continuously variable CVT transmission serves as power transmission.
Ford specifies a charging time of around six hours at a standard household connection. A wallbox or public charging station takes around 3.5 hours.
For commercial vehicles, there are still diesel
In addition to passenger cars, Ford is also electrifying its commercial vehicle fleet. Following the Tourneo Custom and Transit Custom as plug-in versions, the fully electric Transit will roll onto the market next year.
In the end, however, the electric offensive will have a victim: In the medium term, Ford believes that diesels will be phased out because the Euro 7 emissions standard will make exhaust gas purification disproportionately expensive.
For example, the new Kuga with the 2.0-liter Ecoblue diesel would be almost as expensive as the plug-in variant. According to this assessment, the diesel will only be able to survive in the commercial vehicle segment. We will see.
