Ford’s first standalone electric vehicle is here, and although it’s still hard to come to terms with the fact that the SUV bears the Mustang nameplate, its above-average performance, driving range, and multiple powertrain options make it one of the most appealing electric crossovers of 2021.
The Mach E is built on the Global Electrified 1 (GE1) platform developed by Ford Team Edison, which is a heavily modified version of the C2 that is used on the latest generation Focus and Escape (Kuga).
It is available with rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive powertrains that use a single or dual motor configuration with a varied choice of power outputs and standard or extended range battery packs.
On RWD models, an oil-cooled permanent magnet, synchronous electric motor placed on the rear axle is used to drive the wheels. It is supplemented by an additional motor mounted in line with the front axle on AWD versions.
Photo: Ford Motor Co.
Power is supplied by a lithium-ion battery pack integrated into the chassis, between the two axles, improving torsional rigidity and weight distribution.
Available in either a 288-cell, 68 kWh standard range configuration or a 376-cell, 88 kWh extended range version, the high-performance modular packs are secured by a waterproof case surrounded by crash absorption structure.
Battery temperatures are regulated by an advanced active liquid heating and cooling system that was extensively tested by Ford and optimized to deliver maximum performance in extreme weather.
The standard-range RWD powertrain delivers 266 hp (198 kW) and 317 lb-ft (430 Nm) of torque while providing 230 miles (370 km) of driving range. Prices for this version start from $43,000.
Photo: Ford Motor Co.
Also equipped with the 68-kWh battery pack, the AWD version produces the same amount of horsepower, but torque is increased to 428 lb-ft (580 Nm), thanks to the additional motor. However, improved acceleration comes at a price as the range drops to 211 miles (340 km). This model is available for $46,000.
On extended battery, single-motor RWD models, which are available with prices starting around $50,000, power goes up to 290 hp (216 kW) and they can be driven for 300 miles (483 km) on a full charge.
AWD models fitted with the 88 kWh pack carry a base price of around $55,000; in this case, the range decreases to 270 miles (435 km) but the powertrain spits out 346 hp (258 kW). As for the extended range versions, peak torque values are identical to the standard battery models.
Photo: Ford Motor Co.
The highlight of the Mach-E lineup is the GT, which features a dual-motor AWD configuration delivering 480 hp (358 kW), 600 lb-ft (813 Nm) of torque, and 250 miles (402 km) on a full charge, all for a starting price of $60,500.
A GT Performance Edition will also be available in the near future with improved acceleration thanks to the 634 lb-ft (860 Nm) peak torque value. However, the range decreases to 235 miles (378 km), and Ford has yet to reveal pricing for this edition.
The carmaker is offering an optional Ford Connected Wallbox with each model to make charging from home faster and more convenient. Available in 7.4 kW and 11 kW versions, the charger can top up the vehicle’s battery from 10% to 80% in about 6 hours.
When the Detroit-based carmaker revealed the Mach-E back in 2019, fans and critics alike were surprised to see that the new four-door SUV will be developed under the Mustang brand even though it looks more like a fourth-generation Escape (Kuga in Europe) and has pretty much nothing in common with the iconic pony car.
However, it’s not hard to understand that Ford made this choice to give the vehicle the best chances at success. If we ignore the name and objectively analyze what it has to offer, we’ll discover that the Mach-E is an excellent EV that combines all the qualities of an SUV with a capable range of a pure-electric powertrain.
Vlad's first car was custom coach built: an exotic he made out of wood, cardboard and a borrowed steering wheel at the age of five. Combining his previous experience in writing and car dealership years, his articles focus in depth on special cars of past and present times. Full profile
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