Guide to Ford EVs

If you’re searching for an energy-efficient vehicle that doesn’t run on gas, look no further than a Ford EV (electric vehicle). Ford is known for producing high quality, reliable vehicles and their EV range is no exception. With three Ford EVs to choose from; the Ford-150 Lightning pickup, the E-Transit Van and the Mustang Mach-E Crossover, understanding the ins and outs of each needs closer inspection. 

To help you out, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to Ford’s EVs. We’ll cover the main specs, features and selling points of each EV to help you find your perfect match. We’ll also cover the hybrid options available for those looking to make a gentle transition away from traditional gas-powered vehicles.

What is a Ford EV?

A Ford EV is a Ford electric vehicle, or a Ford electric car. Ford electric vehicles feature all-electric battery technology that offers dependable mileage between charges while reducing emissions in our towns and cities. Like other EVs, they’re quieter since they don’t have internal combustion engines, and they can be charged at a station near you.

The history of Ford EVs

Ford produced its first electric vehicle, the Ford Ranger EV in 1998. This battery powered compact pickup truck was built upon a light truck chassis used in the Ford Explorer. Although it generated a lot of industry buzz, only a few electric Ford ranger vehicles were sold, with most being leased. However, all leases were terminated between 2003 and 2004 and the vehicles were recalled.

Today, Ford currently has three standard electric vehicles: the F-150 Lightning pickup, the E-Transit Van and the Mustang Mach-E crossover. All three of these models feature different variants or trims. The American manufacturer also has a collection of hybrid vehicles, fueled in part by an EV battery, along with a gas-powered engine.

Ford all-electric vehicles

Mustang Mach-E

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is the first Ford electric SUV on our list. The Ford Mustang electric vehicle was introduced in 2019 and went on sale in 2020. The Mustang Mach-E is available in four different trim levels:

• Select
• Premium
• California Route 1
• G1

It’s also available in both a rear-wheel drive (RWD) and an all-wheel drive (AWD). The Mustang-Mach-E might be better suited to buyers who are looking for a low-emission vehicle, as opposed to Mustang’s traditional fans – but the Mach-E is no slouch.

Key Features:

• Electrifying performance – Achieving 0-62 MPH in 3.7 seconds and a maximum range of 293 to 372 miles, the Ford Mustang Mach-E is optimized for speed, performance – and distance.
• Intelligent technology - From personalized voice recognition to Ford-Co Pilot 360, the Mustang Mach-E is equipped with many tech features as standard to help smarten your drive.
• Sculpted design – Featuring a flawlessly crafted interior, with space for up to five passengers, the Mustang Mach- E is crafted for comfort.

The Mustang Mach-E is often compared to the Tesla Model Y. Both offer notable features, however the Model Y is available as a seven seater; something you should consider when shopping around for a new family-ready vehicle.

E-Transit

Introduced in 2022, the E-Transit is Ford’s first all-electric commercial vehicle, specifically targeted towards tradesmen and delivery drivers. The E-Transit is available in eight configurations, including three different roof heights, three body lengths, plus cutaway and chassis cab versions. The E-Transit also comes equipped with a very capable rear-wheel drive, giving you all the power you need.  

Key Features:

• Reliable range – With a battery capacity of 68 KW hours, the E-Transit has an demonstrated range of up to 126 miles (The average daily range for vans in the U.S is around 74 miles).
• Generous cargo space – Acknowledging that commercial drivers spend a long time on the road, the E-Transit offers up to 536 cubic feet of cargo volume to make the most of each and every trip.
• Independent rear suspension – The E-Transit features an independent rear suspension which has been redesigned to carry up to 4,513 lbs of cargo and heavy duty gear.

The Mercedes Sprinter is often seen as a rival to the E-Transit. However the Ford E-Transit offers more performance than the Sprinter, and all at a more affordable price point.

F-150 Lightning

Ford unveiled and released the model name for the truck in 2021, but its official release followed in 2022. The F-150 Lightning is an all-electric truck, available in the following trim levels: Pro, XLT, Lariat and Platinum.. All Ford 150 Lightning electric models come standard with two electric motors and all-wheel drive. The electric Ford Mustang is best suited to those looking for an electric truck that looks and performs just like its gas-powered siblings.

Key Features:

• Driving range – The F-150 Lightning battery has an estimated range of 230 miles per charge, which is more than enough for your daily errands. However, with an extended battery the F-150 is capable of covering up to 320 miles. What’s more, the vehicle uses intelligent range vehicle data to predict your mileage based on load, grade, amount of traffic and even the weather.
• Powerful performance – The F-150 Lightning features two electric motors which are capable of producing up to 580 HP. The F-150 Lightning can also accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a four second range, making it the fastest accelerating F-150 to date.
• Impressive towing capabilities – The F-150 Lightning can tow up to an impressive 10,000 lbs. when properly equipped.

If you’re in market for a commercial EV pickup truck, you may also be swayed by the Rivian R1T. While both offer similar qualities, the Rivian R1T has four electric motors, which are capable of producing up to 835 HP. The Rivian R1T also holds the upper hand when it comes to towing capacity and can tow up to a mighty 11,000 lbs. However, the F-150 might be the better all-round option at an affordable price.

Ford hybrid vehicles

As well as all-electric vehicles, Ford also has a range of hybrid vehicles available. A hybrid vehicle combines a hybrid battery with a conventional engine. A Ford hybrid vehicle may therefore be an ideal stepping stone for those looking to move away from a traditional gas-powered engine.

Popular Ford Hybrid Vehicles include:

• Ford Escape – a compact SUV offering 30mpg.  Ideal for small families or adventure-seeking couples
• Ford Maverick – a pickup that can take on all terrains with an average of 37mpg.
• Ford Explorer – a full-size SUV for larger families with a starting mpg of 24.

So there you have it, our complete roundup of Ford electric cars. Hire an electric car with Hertz today, or if you’re unsure sure about switching to an EV vehicle, why not for a hybrid option instead?

Looking to explore more EV options? Check our other EV manufacturer guides:

• Honda
• Toyota
• Chevrolet.