Exploring Ford’s 2023 Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Lineup

Ford's Journey into the Electric Vehicle (EV) Frontier

In recent years, Ford has made significant strides towards green driving, committing to lead the automotive industry in electrification and transform their iconic products. They now offer a range of different types of electric vehicles, including Battery Electric Vehicles, Hybrid Vehicles, Plug-in Hybrids, and the PowerBoost Hybrid. This article explores Ford's electric and hybrid vehicle lineup, their unique features, and answers some frequently asked questions about Ford's EV journey.

Battery Electric Vehicles: Understanding the Future of Transportation

Battery electric vehicles (BEVs), sometimes known as fully electric vehicles or just EVs, are at the forefront of automotive innovation. Designed to offer a greener alternative to traditional internal combustion engines, they rely solely on electricity as their power source. Here's a closer look at what battery electric vehicles are and how they operate.

An EV is a type of electric vehicle that uses a battery pack to store electricity that powers the motor, which then propels the vehicle. Unlike hybrid vehicles or plug-in hybrid vehicles, which utilize a combination of a traditional gasoline engine and an electric motor, EVs use only electric power for propulsion.

Key players in the automotive industry, including Ford, are making significant strides in developing and offering electric vehicle options. As a part of their lineup, Ford currently offers three models of EVs, the Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, and E-Transit with plans for far more in the immediate future.

How do Battery Electric Vehicles Work?

The basic operating principle of a EV is simple: electricity stored in a battery pack powers an electric motor, which turns the wheels of the vehicle. Here's a more in-depth look

• Battery Pack: The battery pack in an electric vehicle is where the electricity is stored. These batteries are typically lithium-ion, similar to the batteries in a laptop or cell phone, but much larger. The energy capacity of a battery is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), and a larger capacity usually means a longer range, or how far you can drive on a single charge.
• Electric Motor: The electric motor takes the electricity from the battery pack and converts it into mechanical energy to turn the wheels. Some electric vehicles have one motor that powers all wheels, while others, like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, use dual motors for all-wheel drive.
• Regenerative Braking: One innovative feature of EVs is regenerative braking. When you apply the brakes in an electric vehicle, the electric motor operates in reverse to slow the car down. In the process, it generates electricity, which is sent back to the battery pack, extending the vehicle's range.
• Charging: Charging a battery electric vehicle can be done at home or at a public charging station. The charging time depends on the size of the battery and the speed of the charging point. Ford electric vehicles are compatible with the BlueOval Charge Network, the largest public charging network in North America offered by automotive manufacturers, making charging on the go convenient for customers.

Ford's Battery Electric Vehicle Lineup

As part of Ford's commitment to lead electrification in the automotive industry, Ford has developed two groundbreaking battery electric vehicles: the Mustang Mach-E and the F-150 Lightning. Both of these models bring together performance, range, and innovative features such as the advanced BlueCruise hands-free driving technology.

Mustang Mach-E: The All-Electric Mustang

The Mustang Mach-E is an all-electric SUV that blends the heart of the iconic Mustang with the benefits of electric power. It promises a thrilling driving experience without compromising on environmental responsibility, reduced local emissions.

On a full charge, the Mustang Mach-E has an EPA-estimated range of 270 to 300+ miles depending on selected trim level. With a powerful electric powertrain, the Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition can sprint from 0-60 mph in an impressive 3.5 seconds, challenging the perception that electric vehicles lack the power and performance of their gasoline counterparts.

Additionally, the Mustang Mach-E comes equipped with Ford's advanced BlueCruise hands-free driving technology. This active driving assistance feature allows drivers to operate their Mustang Mach-E hands-free on prequalified sections of divided highways known as Hands-Free Blue Zones.

F-150 Lightning: The All-Electric Ford Truck

The F-150 Lightning, on the other hand, takes the legendary toughness of Ford's top-selling pickup truck and enhances it with the power and efficiency of electric propulsion.

Ford's F-150 Lightning achieves an impressive EPA-estimated range of up to 300 miles when fully charged. In terms of performance, the electric powertrain's instant torque allows the Lightning to achieve a remarkable 0-60 mph time of roughly 4.5 seconds, demonstrating that electric trucks are truly contenders in the power department.

The F-150 Lightning brings more to the table than just electric mobility and power. It features Ford's Pro Power Onboard, a built-in power source that can provide up to 9.6 kW of power. This feature allows you to use your truck as a mobile generator, powering everything from tools at a worksite to appliances during a power outage.

Like the Mustang Mach-E, the Lightning is also equipped with Ford's advanced BlueCruise technology for a more relaxing and safer driving experience.

Hybrid Vehicles: The Blend of Performance and Efficiency

As we delve into Ford's other green offerings, it's impossible to overlook the hybrid vehicles that form a crucial part of the brand's electric vision. These vehicles cleverly fuse the benefits of gasoline engines and electric motors, providing a blend of performance, efficiency, and reduced emissions.

Unlike battery electric vehicles, which run solely on electricity, hybrid vehicles use both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. They draw energy from the electric motor at lower speeds and switch to the gasoline engine at higher speeds or when more power is needed, such as during acceleration. When braking, hybrids also utilize regenerative braking technology, converting the kinetic energy from the brakes into electricity and storing it in the battery. This helps to enhance efficiency and extend the vehicle's range.

Ford's lineup of hybrid vehicles showcases its dedication to eco-friendly driving solutions. Each model strikes a balance between power and fuel efficiency, ensuring drivers can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Ford's 2023 Hybrid Vehicle Lineup

Ford Explorer Hybrid

Under the hood, the Ford Explorer Hybrid houses a 3.3L V6 engine combined with a lithium-ion battery. Together, they offer a combined system horsepower of 318, ensuring no compromise on power. It allows for a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, ensuring that you're ready for any adventure.

As for fuel efficiency, the Explorer Hybrid has an impressive EPA-estimated rating of 28 mpg combined. This allows you to enjoy extended road trips and city drives without frequent refueling stops.

Inside, the Ford Explorer Hybrid offers a spacious and comfortable interior. It features three rows of seating with enough room for up to seven passengers. The seats are designed with comfort in mind, ensuring a relaxing drive, no matter the distance. The interior also features Ford's latest infotainment system, SYNC® 4A, which offers enhanced connectivity and entertainment features.

The Ford Explorer Hybrid also comes equipped with a variety of safety and driver-assist technologies. Ford Co-Pilot360™, a suite of safety features, comes standard. This includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, a Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping System, and more.

Ford Escape Hybrid

The Ford Escape Hybrid comes equipped with a 2.5L iVCT Atkinson-cycle hybrid engine. This engine, in combination with the electric motor, offers both power and impressive fuel efficiency with EPA-estimated ratings of 44 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 41 mpg combined. The vehicle's combined power output stands at 200 horsepower, delivering brisk acceleration and a responsive driving experience.

Despite its compact classification, the Escape Hybrid offers a surprisingly roomy interior, comfortably seating up to five passengers. It also provides a generous cargo space that can be expanded by folding the rear seats.

The vehicle comes with Ford's SYNC® 3 infotainment system, offering connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows for seamless integration of your smartphone, providing easy access to your favorite apps and music.

When it comes to safety, the Ford Escape Hybrid features the Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite of driver-assist technologies as standard. These features include Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert, and a Lane-Keeping System.

Ford Maverick Hybrid

Starting with the fuel efficiency, the Maverick stands out among other trucks in its class. The standard 2.5L full hybrid engine boasts an EPA-estimated rating of 40 mpg in the city, an unprecedented figure for a pickup. This allows Maverick owners to enjoy the benefits of a truck without the typically associated high fuel costs.

Don't be fooled by its hybrid nature, though. The Maverick still offers the robust performance you'd expect from a Ford pickup. It delivers 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque, with the capability to tow up to 2,000 pounds in its standard configuration. Need more towing capacity? Opt for the available 2.0L EcoBoost® engine and the towing package, and the Maverick can tow up to 4,000 pounds - enough for a good-sized camper or a pair of personal watercraft.

The Ford Maverick's bed, known as the FLEXBED™, provides innovative solutions for cargo. It comes with multi-position tailgate, 10 available tie-downs, available in-bed outlet, and a host of other clever features designed to make it as functional and flexible as possible. Moreover, the Maverick has 4.5-foot bed that can fit up to 18 sheets of 4x8-foot three-quarter-inch plywood.

On the inside, the Maverick doesn't skimp on comfort and technology. It comes with standard 8-inch touchscreen running SYNC® 3, allowing for seamless integration of your smartphone with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. It also includes FordPass™ Connect with a Wi-Fi hotspot that can support up to 10 devices.

Plug-In Hybrids

The functionality of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) expertly combines elements of traditional gasoline-powered vehicles and electric vehicles, representing a technological synergy of the two.

When a PHEV is in operation and its battery is fully charged, it behaves much like a pure electric vehicle. The stored electricity in the battery is utilized to power the electric motor, which in turn propels the wheels. This feature allows for an emission-free drive over a certain limited range.

However, when the battery's charge level descends to a predetermined point, the vehicle seamlessly transitions to what is known as the "traditional" hybrid mode. In this state, the gasoline engine and the electric motor work together, balancing between power and fuel efficiency. During times of increased power demand, such as when accelerating or climbing uphill, the electric motor assists the gasoline engine.

Additionally, plug-in hybrid vehicles are equipped with a regenerative braking system. This innovative feature is commonly found in both hybrid and electric vehicles. In operation, the electric motor transforms into a generator when the brakes are applied or when the vehicle is coasting. Instead of wasting kinetic energy as heat during braking, it is converted back into electrical energy. This energy is then used to recharge the vehicle's battery, further optimizing the energy efficiency of the vehicle.

The charging ability of PHEVs offers an extended travel range purely on electric power, especially during city driving conditions. For long-distance trips or when the battery has been depleted, the traditional engine ensures the vehicle's continuous operation, acting as a safety net of sorts. This engine enables the PHEV to refuel and operate similarly to any conventional vehicle.

Ford's 2023 Plug-In Hybrid Lineup

Ford Plug-In Hybrid Escape

With a generous all-electric EPA-estimated range of 37 miles, the 2023 Escape Plug-In Hybrid is an excellent choice for city dwellers and suburban commuters alike. For longer trips or when the battery is depleted, the vehicle smoothly switches over to its gasoline engine, ensuring a seamless driving experience.

The Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid is not just about efficiency; it's about performance too. The combined power of the electric motor and the gasoline engine delivers a respectable 210 horsepower.

The Escape Plug-In Hybrid comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360™, an advanced suite of driver-assist technologies designed to help you navigate the road with confidence. Notable features include Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross-Traffic Alert, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, and more.

For charging convenience, the Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid offers multiple options. Home charging is straightforward with the available Ford Connected Charge Station, or using a standard 120V or 240V electrical outlet. On the road, you can utilize the ever-growing network of public charging stations, ensuring you're never far from a charging point.

Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid

The Ford F-150 PowerBoost operates using a unique combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, working together to provide efficient performance and superior power. The heart of the PowerBoost system is the 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine with a 35-kilowatt electric motor, delivering a combined 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque. This robust powertrain allows the F-150 PowerBoost to tow up to 12,700 pounds and carry a payload of 2,120 pounds, making it as capable as its purely combustion-engine counterparts. This engine is highly efficient and capable on its own, but it's when it works in tandem with the electric motor that the true power of the PowerBoost system comes to life.

The 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery,stored under the truck to maximize cargo space, is integrated into the 10-speed automatic transmission of the F-150 PowerBoost. It generates 35 kilowatts (roughly 47 horsepower) of power and is capable of providing additional torque when needed, such as during acceleration or towing. This system can also operate the vehicle independently in certain conditions, allowing for periods of all-electric driving.

The electric motor is powered by a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, which is located underneath the truck to ensure cargo space isn't compromised. This battery is charged through a process known as regenerative braking, a system that captures energy usually lost during braking and converts it into electricity to recharge the battery. On a full tank, it offers an EPA-estimated range of approximately 700 miles, making it a top pick for long drives and heavy-duty tasks.

The Pro Power Onboard feature is an innovative part of the PowerBoost system that transforms the F-150 into a mobile power generator. This feature can provide a staggering 7.2 kW of electricity when equipped with the optional power upgrade. This energy can be accessed through outlets located in the cab and the bed of the truck, providing a convenient source of power wherever you are. This feature can be used to power a wide range of devices, from heavy-duty construction equipment to camping gear, making it an incredibly versatile feature. As a testament to its power, the F-150 with Pro Power Onboard can supply enough energy to power an entire small work site or an elaborate tailgate party, redefining the capabilities of a pickup truck.

Conclusion

Ford's commitment to advancing the field of electrified vehicles has never been more evident. From their battery electric vehicles like the Mustang Mach-E and the F-150 Lightning, to their robust range of hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles from the Ford Explorer Hybrid to Plug-In hybrid Escape, Ford continues to pave the way in green driving solutions.

With each model, Ford prioritizes efficiency without compromising on performance or reliability, demonstrating their innovative technologies such as the PowerBoost full hybrid technology in the F-150 and the Pro Power Onboard feature. Whether you're a city commuter in need of an efficient runabout, an adventurous driver seeking the flexibility of a PHEV, or a hard worker requiring the power and efficiency of a hybrid truck, Ford's 2023 lineup has an electrified vehicle to suit your needs.

For those considering a shift towards electric or hybrid driving options, Heritage Ford of Corydon, Indiana is ready to serve you. Here, you can explore Ford's EV lineup in detail, ask questions, and even take a test drive!