Introduction
The Ford Capri name has a rich history on various sports coupes developed by Ford of Europe and Mercury in the U.S. However, the new Ford Capri EV marks a departure from the traditional two-door sporty car design, instead opting for a fastback four-door crossover model. Built on VW’s MEB platform, the Capri EV shares similarities with the European Ford Explorer EV and VW ID.4 and ID.5 crossovers. This article will explore the design, features, performance, and potential market availability of the Ford Capri EV.
Design and Styling
While the Ford Capri EV retains some familiar cues from its namesake, such as the horseshoe-shaped rear window and pillar treatment, it lacks the distinct and crisp design elements of the original coupe. The exterior design of the Capri EV resembles a melted version of the Polestar 2, with soft and undefined lines. The interior features Ford’s minimalist approach with a small screen ahead of the driver and a 14.6-inch infotainment screen that can adjust angle for viewability. Standard features include heated steering wheel and seats, massage and memory driver seat, dual-zone climate control, and various driver assist technologies.
Performance and Powertrain
The Ford Capri EV is available in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. The rear-drive model is equipped with a single 282-horsepower motor and a 77-kWh usable battery pack, achieving a 0-62 mph time of 6.4 seconds and a maximum WLTP range of 390 miles. The all-wheel-drive version features dual motors producing 335 horsepower with a 79-kWh usable battery pack, offering a 0-62 mph time of 5.3 seconds and a maximum range of 368 miles.
Platform and Technology
The Ford Capri EV utilizes VW’s MEB platform, similar to other electric vehicles such as the VW ID.4 and ID.5 crossovers. This platform enables the Capri EV to share technology and components with other MEB-based vehicles. The integration of Ford’s infotainment features rather than VW’s enhances the user experience and brand identity within the vehicle.
Market Availability and Pricing
While pricing and availability for the Ford Capri EV have not been confirmed, it is expected to go on sale in Europe within the year. The possibility of the Capri EV reaching American shores remains uncertain, considering the competitive pricing of the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the presence of the VW ID.4 in the U.S. market. The Capri has historically been more popular in Europe than in America, which may influence Ford’s decision on whether to introduce the model to the U.S. market.
Conclusion
The Ford Capri EV represents a modern reinterpretation of the iconic sports coupe name, transitioning to a versatile four-door crossover model powered by electric technology. While its design may lack the distinctiveness of the original Capri coupe, the Capri EV offers a blend of performance, technology, and efficiency in line with contemporary electric vehicles. As Ford continues to expand its electric lineup, the Capri EV could potentially appeal to European consumers seeking a stylish and sustainable crossover option.