Ford Abandons Large Electric SUV Plans, Prioritizes Hybrid Vehicles

By Israel Monte

Aug 21, 2024 10:17 PM EDT

Ford has officially terminated its plans for electric SUVs following years of delay.

MotorTrend reported Wednesday that Ford's decision to shut down the programs came from Ford CEO Jim Farley's realization that despite large SUVs being hugely profitable due to having combustion, it can also backfire since large electric SUVs contain expensive batteries.

Ford Abandons Large Electric SUV Plans, Prioritizes Hybrid Vehicles

(Photo : Ford)

Due to these circumstances, Ford has decided to pay more attention to its smaller and more budget-friendly vehicles. The automaker also revealed earlier that the large SUVs would be postponed by an additional two years, until 2027.

The automaker has also set aside the launching of a new generation of electric full-size pickup trucks. Ford is reported to be checking out hybrids with extended range. 

Ford will now concentrate on its hybrid three-row SUVs, which will possibly include a variety of propulsion choices.

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In other news, Ford recently unveiled the 2025 Explorer, equipping the vehicle with updated functions and design. The new Explorer comes in four trims: Active, ST, ST-Line and Platinum.

Owners would also have the 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine and the 3-liter turbocharged V-6 for their engine choices. Aside from its exterior and engine details, the 2025 Ford Explorer includes adaptive cruise control, heated seats and a trailer-tow package. 

The Explorer also boasts a Ford Premium Connectivity subscription, 5G connection and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The unit will also arrive with an infotainment system, climate controls, a Google Maps-based navigation system, Play Store access and Chrome.

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The vehicle immediately received feedback from car enthusiasts and critics, who commended the vehicle for its upgrades and performance. 

Perry Stern of J.D. Power and Associates remarked that the vehicle manages to maintain its lane on the road while prioritizing safety and considering its distance from vehicles through the BlueCruise system.

While the automatic program is impressive, Stern commented that the driver's attention to the road is still required despite the advancements.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: 2025 Ford Explorer Interior Redesign: What's New? 

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