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Electric Ford Explorer Won’t Come to the U.S.

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The Explorer has been electrified. Ford reveals plans to release the first electric Explorer, but it’s not planned for debut in the United States. Instead, the electric Ford Explorer will only be available in Europe.

electric Ford Explorer
Ford Motor Company

Introducing the Electric Ford Explorer

The EV uses the same platform as the Volkswagen ID.4 and Audi Q4 e-tron, making it a German-built vehicle. While we don’t know how long the driving range will be or how much power it produces, Ford claims it can be recharged from ten-percent to eighty-percent in just 25 minutes.

Based on it sharing a platform with the German compnaies, it would be safe to assume that power would be relative. The Q4 e-tron and ID.4 both provides up to 295 horsepower. Plus, the rear-wheel-drive ID.4 is rated for 275 miles of EV driving range.

This new model should still be jam-packed full of the latest technologies and features. We’ve seen a large touchsreen display in the pictures. Plus, there’s be a lockable storage compartment shown behind the tilted touchscreen.

Ford Explorer EV Prices

The new electric Explorer is goign to cost 45,000 Euros for a model with rear-wheel drive. That price equates to about $48,500 in American dollars. That’s cheaper than what the Ford Mustang Mach-E sells for, with a base price of 62,900 euros ($67,800).

Later this year, we expect the full price sheet. We will also have more Explorer EV specs at that time. However, it’s important to remember that this electric Ford SUV is not coming to the United States. But, we were told in 2021 that the American market would be receiving an electric Explorer of some sort. For now, we will just keep waiting.

Tell us what electric vehicle you are most excited about? Are you ready to make the jump to EVs or are you still driving a gas-powered car. Let us know in the comments.

2023 Ford Maverick Tremor: First Look

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Get ready for a new addition to the 2023 Ford lineup. A new off-road option is coming to the truck lineup – introducing the 2023 Ford Maverick Tremor. The Maverick is the final truck model to get the Tremor package, so it’s been highly anticipated.

2023 Ford Maverick Tremor off-road
Ford Media

What’s Included with the 2023 Ford Maverick Tremor?

The new Maverick Tremor includes 17″ wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. It also has a fully independent suspension that increases ground clearance to 9.4″ (an inch higher). Under the hood of the Ford Maverick Tremor, you’ll find the 2.0L turbo-four pushing out 250 horsepower. Sadly, it doesn’t come with the hybrid powertrain option. However, it does include an advanced all-wheel drive system, the same as with the Bronco Sport Badlands model.

What’s best about the new Maverick model is that it won’t break the bank. It’s considered a budget-friendly truck that provides plenty of adventure. With the superior fuel economy of 24 mpg combined and the increased ride height, you have everything you need to enjoy the open road. However, it does only tow up to 2,000 pounds, which is much lower than the max rating of 4,000 pounds for other Maverick trims.

Is The Maverick Tremor Right for You?

There’s no question that the 2023 Maverick Tremor is rugged-locking and exciting. It’s also not expensive, so you don’t have to choose between a mortgage payment or a truck. However, it’s not going to have the same capability as the Ford F-150 Tremor or Super Duty Tremor. If you need more than mild off-road manners, you may prefer one of the bigger Ford trucks instead.

You may even find yourself getting more excited about the new Ford Lightning, the automaker’s electric truck. To find out what’s best for you, we recommend visiting a local dealership and test driving the trucks for yourself. Discover which new Ford feels right for you.

Ford Lightning: The New Electric F-150 Truck

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When the all-electric F-150 finally goes on sale in 2022, we can expect it to be known as the Ford Lightning. While we still don’t know what to expect with the electric Ford F-150 pickup, we do at least know the name now.

Ford Lighting electric F-150
Ford

What Was the Ford Lighting?

Previously, Ford used the term “Lightning” to describe some of the F-150 high-performance models, but that hasn’t occurred since 2004. For example, the 2004 SVT F-150 Lightning is a 380-horsepower pickup that was ahead of its time. But, these new models have nothing to do with the pickups of years gone by.

New Lightning F-150 Details

There aren’t many tech details on the electric full-size pickup yet. Still, we know it is supposed to be the most powerful of the F-150 lineup.  There will be an online reveal on May 19th at 9:30 pm ET, which we are excited to watch and learn more.

However, we do know that Jim Farley, Ford CEO, stated last year that this truck was meant to be a real truck, not just a gimmick. It’s supposed to be powerful enough to handle some real towing and hauling, guaranteed to get the job done. But, until we see it ourselves, it will be hard to imagine.

More EVs Coming Down the Pipeline

The electric F-150 is sure to impress as a full-size pickup. With that said, there are other vehicles coming to market that this model will compete against. Whether you are thinking of the Tesla Cybertruck or the GMC Hummer EV, all of these vehicles are going to battle for consumer attention. It shall be interesting to see who comes out on top. Which one of these vehicles has your eye? Are you planning on buying an electric truck, or do you simply have a curiosity? Leave us a comment and let us know your thoughts.

2020 Ford Expedition: First Look

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The biggest Ford SUV has been completely redesigned for the 2018 model year after being on the same platform for over ten years. This spacious SUV didn’t have any considerable adjustments in 2019, so it is safe to assume it will be unchanged in 2020. With that said, let’s take a look at what to expect from the 2020 Ford Expedition.

2019 - 2020 Ford Expedition
Ford

2020 Ford Expedition Specs

This fourth-generation Ford SUV will be available in 2 separate sizes. The Expedition wheelbase measures 122.5″, while the Expedition MAX has a wheelbase size of 131.6″. Both are massive, dense and roomy plus share all of the trim levels and drivetrain configurations among them. 

The normal wheelbase Expedition has a starting price of $52,000 and the large wheelbase Expedition Max starts at about $55,000 with the base trim. The platinum models cost about $73,000 to $ 76,000. This body-on-frame SUV from Ford is more costly than GM competitors. However, it is well worth the purchase if you need an SUV as a people hauler. It’s also good to carry lots of cargo at the same time.

Every Expedition SUV comes with the 3.5L Ecoboost V6 engine despite the wheelbase size and trim level. This motor produces 375 horsepower and puts out 470 lb-ft of torque with most of the trim levels. The top of the line Platinum model offers 10 more lb-ft of torque and 25 more horsepower, giving it 480 lb-ft of torque with 400 horsepower.

Furthermore, every fourth-gen Expedition comes with a 10-speed automatic. Drivers chose whether it is a four-wheel or rear wheel drive model. The Expedition 4 wheel drive system comes from BorgWarner Inc. It features 4 unique selectable modes including a rear wheel drive simulator and a transfer case with two-speeds.

Remember that no measure of high tech elements can improve the fact that Expedition runs like the huge SUV it is. Customers who like this wouldn’t assume anything else.

What Do You Think?

Among other 2020 updates, we’ve also discussed the 2020 Ford Transit Van and the 2020 Ford Explorer. Do any of the new Ford models interest you? Let us know.

Introducing the New 2020 Ford Super Duty Tremor Package

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Ford stepped up its game and challenged the Ram Power Wagon for off-road capability with the new Tremor package. It comes on the 2020 Ford Super Duty F-Series trucks.

2020 Ford Super Duty
Ford

2020 Ford Super Duty

Right now if you want a full-size heavy-duty pickup with true off-road capability, your only option is the Power Wagon from RAM. There is no doubt the RAM delivers when it comes to going off-road. But Ford wants to capture some of this market with the Super Duty Tremor Package. We are sure that this will not disappoint all the Ford fans out there.

Tremor Package

The new 2020 F-series Tremor package option will be available on certain trims of the Super Duty Ford pickup. The package turns this truck into a real competitor with the RAM Power Wagon. With improvements to the axles, wheels, tires and suspension, this Ford truck adapts into a real off-roader.

The Tremor package pushes the boundaries of the F-series Super Duty to higher limits. The modern tech and hardware being offer everything that customers want. That also enables this truck to handle rougher terrain while increasing the payload and towing capacity above that of the RAM Power Wagon.

Ford Tremor wheels and tires
Ford

Suspension

The new F-series Ford pickup has the biggest tires ever put on a production Super Duty pickup. These 35-inch Wrangler Duratrac’s from Goodyear wrap around an 18 matte-black wheel. The rims are attached to a suspension with progressive rate springs and a 2-inch lift. In addition, the rear stabilizer bar is redesigned to reduce body roll over rough terrain.

Bolted to the lifted suspension are twin-tube shocks with 1.7-inch pistons. They will make any ground feel smooth.

You no longer have to worry about those rocks or high spots either. This Super Duty has more ground clearance with a full 10.8 inches between you and the ground. The approach and departure angles are just as impressive at 24.51 and 31.65 degrees.

Ford Drive Modes
Ford

Tremor Drivetrain

Underneath the rear of the Tremor package is an electronic locking rear differential. Up front is the Dana Axle with a limited-slip differential. To get power to the wheels with most traction, the differentials incorporate the brake system.

For the first time ever in a Super Duty F-series pickup, Ford adds selectable drive modes. It includes 5 different ranges from Snow/Sand, Slippery (Ice), Tow/Hauling, Economy, and Normal. Ford also added in Rock Control, Trail Control and heavy-duty skid plates on the FX/4 trim.

The Tremor option is available on several trims including the Platinum, Lariat, King Ranch, and the XLT. The trucks also are equipped with four-wheel drive, standard or crew cab, and your choice of the new 7.3 liter V-8 or Ford’s 6.7 liter Power Stroke diesel motor.

The new 2020 heavy-duty F-350 and F-350 with the Tremor package arrive at dealers later this year.

2020 Ford Transit Van Updates Include All-Wheel Drive

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The 2020 Ford Transit van is going to get an update in styling, some new configurations and additional comfort. The critical updates include a standard ten-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. Let’s take a closer look at what we can expect with the new Ford Transit.

2020 Ford Transit van
Ford

2020 Ford Transit Van Power Options

The updated model will come with a new engine house. In fact, only the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 will continue on. A naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 will take the place of the existing base engine to replace the port-injected 3.7-liter. We expect about 300 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque out of this motor. This is also paired with the 10-speed automatic.

One of the new engines will also be a diesel engine. It is a 2.0-liter turbo diesel I4 option to replace the 3.2-liter Power Stroke I5. This small diesel is the same found in the Raptor overseas. Because of that, we expect about 210 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.

We are also looking at an available all-wheel-drive system for the gas engines. This is able to move 100 percent of the torque to the front axle, when needed. Unlike the Sprinter, this system is optimized for inclement weather. In addition, the ride height and ground clearance remain identical to the rear-wheel-drive Transit.

Other Features Included in the Ford Van

What’s most exciting is the long list of upgrades that come with the Ford Transit. Expect a standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot to appear as well as automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, post-collision braking plus lane-keeping assist. Other available features include blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, split-view front and rear cameras, pedestrian detection and parking assist technologies. Customers also gain access to an optimal power-sliding door on both the cargo and passenger van.

In addition, we expect the SYNC 3 infotainment system, some interior storage, available HID headlamps and a new front fascia. The Transit will also come with a crew van configuration which features two rows of seats plus a large cargo area. Another configuration includes the three-seat front row as well.

We expect to see the Transit passenger and cargo van later this year along with the 2020 Ford Explorer. We will have more detailed specs then.

Ford Super Duty 7.3-Liter Engine Could Fit in Mustang GT500 and Raptor

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It’s only been a week since we first saw the all-new and insane 7.3-liter V8 engine from Ford. It debuted with the Super Duty lineup that goes on sale this year. Now, we’ve received word that this massive 7.3-L Super Duty engine would fit in a Mustang or Raptor if you wanted it to.

7.3-liter engine
Ford

Ford’s 7.3-Liter Engine

In a recent press release from Ford, we learned that this mighty V8 would be part of their largest pickup class. We didn’t learn much about the performance, but we know it’s powerful enough. Considering the immense size of the engine, we didn’t expect that it would ever be part of anything but a big truck.

At the Chicago Auto Show, Ford told media that the 7.3-liter engine could actually fit in a smaller F-150 or the Mustang. Of course, just because it will fit doesn’t make it a good idea. This engine is heavy with its big iron block. It’s not the lightweight engine you would want if performance matters to you.

Some people argue that the Mustang is already heavy due to the 5.0- or 5.2-liter V8, but taking this to a 7.3-liter would make a big difference. Still, we expect that someone is going to give it a try at some point. Maybe we will even see something magnificent at SEMA later this year.

Of course, putting this engine into an F-150 wouldn’t be as far fetched. It could even replace the 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 in the Raptor, but we aren’t sure why anyone would want to. The twin-turbo is considerably lighter and already features 450 horsepower with 510 pound-feet of torque.

Final Thoughts

Time will tell what people decide to do with the 7.3-liter Ford engine. At least, everyone knows there are options available. Whatever happens, it is sure to be amusing, to say the least.

Ford Ranger History: Where Did It Come From & Where Are We Now?

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Now that the hype behind the 2019 Ford Ranger is in the market, people are quickly realizing that it’s a pretty amazing little truck. This causes you to wonder about the Ford Ranger history – where it came from, whatever happened to it and how we got back to it.

We’ve put together a complete rundown of the Ford Ranger model years, but the history starts where you least expect it.

Ford Ranger history
Barrett-Jackson

Ford Ranger History – In the Beginning

Let’s take a look back at the Ranger compact pickup. This brings us to Mazda.

During the early 1970s, smaller trucks started to be a thing. Popularity grew as Toyota and Datsun both produced a small pickup. The American manufacturers wanted in on the action, but developing their own truck would cost money and precious time.

Since the Japanese already had success in making efficient and reliable pickups, Ford decided to work out a partnership with Mazda. That’s when the B-Series pickup came to be, otherwise known as the Ford Courier. Ford sold this from 1972 through 1982.

1983 Ford Ranger - left front view
Street Source

Ford Ranger History – Gas Crisis

Shortly after the Courier came to America, war broke out in the Middle East. OPEC didn’t want anyone supporting Israel so they placed an embargo on those countries. Gas prices went through the roof and lines were long. The gas stations began running out of fuel and people didn’t want gas-guzzling trucks anymore. Instead they looked for vehicle with better fuel economy.

To fight back, Ford decided to launch Project Yuma. This project developed the Ranger pickup truck which replaced the Courier. While the program began in 1973, it didn’t get rolling until closer to 1976.

To counteract some of the cost of imported materials, Ford used lightweight magnesium for the truck’s clutch housing, clutch support and brake brackets. It dropped the weight of the truck by 20 percent. Of course, the aerodynamics received plenty of attention. Then, they improved the engines to make them more fuel-efficient. Customers had access to a 2.0 or 2.3-liter inline-four plus an automatic transmission.

1990 Ford Ranger STX
Consumer Guide

Ford Ranger History – Early Trucks

These trucks featured four-wheel drive as an option and they could carry up to 1,600 pounds of payload. The trouble was, even with the 80 horsepower and 116 lb-ft of torque in the 2.3, it was still slow. That’s when Ford added an optional V6 or a Mazda-built diesel option. It was also when the Bronco II SUV came into play.

Toward the end of the 1970s, production took a nose dive and prices went through the roof with oil once again. Ford received an incredible hit and sales suffered. But that didn’t stop the Ranger from surviving. In fact, the first-generation Ranger went on through 1992. Seven million Rangers made it to production since 1982.

2019 Ford Ranger - left front view
Ford

History of the Ford Ranger – The End & New Beginning

Since the 1998 redesign of the Ranger, sales continued to go downhill. There were some minor tweaks, but overall it remained the same truck. Full-size trucks became more popular and quickly took over the segment. Ford also realized that they make more money putting a buyer into a low-end F-150 than selling the compact truck, so they ditched it altogether.

The B-Series truck continued to live on in other parts of the world. The trucks grew in popularity in areas such as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Asia. During the years, Ford continued to learn and grow. They worked closely with Ford of Australia to determine what went wrong and how to improve on it.

What we are left with now is the 2019 Ford Ranger which is attempting to compete with the Toyota Tacoma. While it only has a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo four-cylinder right now, it does feature the best-in-class towing ability. Overall, enthusiasts are happy to have the Ranger back in production and we will have to wait to see how this story ends.

2020 Ford Explorer: First Redesign in 8 Years

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As Ford continues to focus more heavily on creating trucks and SUVs, they’ve decided to give us an updated version of the long-standing Explorer model. They just unveiled their all-new 2020 Ford Explorer which is the first significant update in eight years.

2020 Ford Explorer
Ford

2020 Ford Explorer Coming Soon

The 2020 Explorer comes with a complete redesign and lots of special features. That includes some creature comforts and new technology including the Ford Co-Pilot 360. This system provides driver assistance technology that helps you avoid a collision.

On top of that, the 2020 Ford Explorer increased its towing capacity by 66% all while becoming more fuel efficient and lighter. This new version will go on sale over the summer and starts at $33,000. That’s slightly more than the 2019 Chevy Blazer, but well worth the additional cost.

Competition Gets Stronger

What you need to keep in mind is that the competition among midsize SUVs is only getting stronger. There were 21 models available in the United States last year, but that number should be closer to 30 by the time we reach 2022.

Last year, Ford sold over 261,000 Explorers. That’s quite an impressive amount considering that the automaker hasn’t given it any major updates in so many years. Considering they were a leader before the update, it should be interesting to see what happens to their sales after the makeover.

Of course, the midsize SUV market isn’t going away anytime soon. Last year, it made up 14% of car sales and it’s only set to rise from there. That means the 2020 Ford Explorer is coming into a ripe arena where customers can’t wait to get their hands on new models.

Since Ford is now relying on their SUVs and trucks to carry them, they need this win. Ford, among other car companies, is currently investing billions of dollars into future technologies. They need this venture to pay off for them.

2019 Ford Ranger MPG Numbers Released

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The EPA just released the 2019 Ford Ranger mpg numbers and it’s official – the Ranger has the best-in-class fuel economy of a gas-powered mid-size pickup. We are actively awaiting its arrival at dealerships. Before it starts selling like hotcakes, Ford gets to do a little bragging.

2019 Ford Ranger MPG
Ford

2019 Ford Ranger MPG Numbers

The EPA estimated the fuel economy for the 2019 Ranger and the results might just shock you. With a 2WD configuration and the 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engine combined with the ten-speed automatic transmission, drivers are looking at 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway with 23 mpg combined.

That’s better than any of the other gas-powered mid-size trucks on the market. It even ties with the Chevrolet Colorado diesel truck for combined mileage numbers. As far as gas-powered options go, the 2WD Tacoma only gets 21 mpg combined while the GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado are looking at 22 mpg combined.

Of course, most truck buyers aren’t looking for fuel-efficiency when picking out their latest pickup, but it’s an excellent marketing tool that Ford will use. Anywhere they can achieve a bragging point, they will surely use it.

If you want the 2019 Ford Ranger mpg numbers on the 4WD, we have that too! Expect this pickup to get 20 mpg city, 24 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined. Not too shabby – in fact, it’s better than any 4WD gas-powered mid-size truck.

Other Highlights of the 2019 Ford Ranger

Ford didn’t hesitate to also point out that the Ranger features the best-in-class torque with 310 pound-feet. It’s also ranked as the best-in-class towing and payload with 7,500 and 1,860 pounds.

Expect the Ranger to hit the dealerships sometime next month. It will feature a starting price of $25,395. Of course, the higher trims could take that bill up over $40,000, especially if you decide to add some of the 125 aftermarket parts that are available.

Stay connected to Car Blog Writers for the latest news regarding the 2019 Ford Ranger and everything Ford related. We are actively awaiting more news on the Baby Bronco and the Ford Mach-E.

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