Is the Ford Explorer hybrid a plug-in?
No — the Ford Explorer Hybrid is not a plug-in hybrid; it is a conventional gasoline-electric hybrid that charges its battery via the engine and regenerative braking, not by plugging in.
This article explains how the Explorer Hybrid works, how it differs from plug-in hybrids, and what that means for daily use, charging needs, and overall fuel economy as Ford positions the SUV in a market for efficiency without the need to plug in.
How the Explorer Hybrid works
Ford positions the Explorer Hybrid as a traditional hybrid that combines a gas engine with an electric motor. It uses regenerative braking and the engine to recharge its battery and does not include a charging port for external power. Here are the key points:
- Powertrain and efficiency: A combined gasoline engine and electric motor drive the wheels through Ford’s hybrid system, providing electric assistance and improved fuel economy without external charging.
- Battery and electric range: The battery is sized for hybrid operation rather than long-range electric driving, so there is little to no electric-only range.
- Charging method: Battery charging occurs through the engine, generator, and regenerative braking; there is no plug-in charging port in the Explorer Hybrid.
- Performance characteristics: The system delivers a balance of power and efficiency suitable for family hauling, with power output in the low- to mid-300 horsepower range depending on model year.
In practice, this setup means you’ll rarely drive purely on electric power in typical daily use, and you’ll refuel with gasoline as you would a conventional SUV, albeit with better overall efficiency.
Plug-in hybrids vs. the Explorer Hybrid
To understand the difference, compare the Explorer Hybrid to plug-in hybrids that Ford and the broader market offer, which feature larger batteries you can charge from a wall outlet or public charger and can provide a meaningful electric-only range for short trips.
- Battery capacity and range: Plug-in hybrids have larger batteries and provide an electric-only range (often 15–40 miles or more) before the gasoline engine engages. The Explorer Hybrid’s battery is optimized for hybrid operation, with negligible electric-only driving.
- Charging options: PHEVs can be plugged in via 120V or 240V outlets to top off the battery. The Explorer Hybrid has no external charging port.
- Fuel economy vs. electric use: PHEVs can maximize electric driving for commutes; the Explorer Hybrid emphasizes continuous efficiency gains through the hybrid system rather than electric miles.
Ford’s current Explorer lineup does not include a plug-in hybrid variant; buyers seeking a plug-in option in a Ford SUV would typically look at other models such as the Escape Plug-In Hybrid or, in some markets, the all-electric Mustang Mach-E, depending on availability and model year.
What this means for buyers
For shoppers weighing options, the key takeaway is that the Explorer Hybrid offers a fuel-saving hybrid experience without the need to install a charging outlet at home. It’s well-suited for daily drivers who want efficiency without the planning required by a plug-in vehicle.
- Pros: Easy fueling, no range anxiety, strong combined output for daily driving, smooth operation, with available all-wheel-drive variants.
- Cons: No electric-only driving, cannot be charged at home, potential higher upfront cost than a traditional gasoline model.
As always, check the latest manufacturer specifications for your year and trim to confirm powertrain details and efficiency figures, since Ford periodically updates hardware and software across the Explorer lineup.
Summary
The Ford Explorer Hybrid is not a plug-in hybrid. It is designed as a traditional hybrid that recharges its battery on the move, delivering improved efficiency without the need for external charging. For buyers seeking electric-only range, a plug-in hybrid variant or a fully electric SUV would be the appropriate alternative.
Why is Ford discontinuing the Explorer hybrid?
The Ford Explorer hybrid was discontinued due to a combination of low consumer demand, high production costs, and a strategic shift by Ford to prioritize its police interceptor and future all-electric models. Retail sales of the hybrid Explorer were low, with buyers often prioritizing the power and towing capacity of other engine options over the hybrid's fuel economy gains, which were not significant enough to sway many customers.
- Prioritization of police models: Ford decided to dedicate its hybrid production capacity to the highly in-demand Ford Police Interceptor Utility hybrid. This is because the hybrid system's ability to power accessories while idling is a significant benefit for law enforcement vehicles that spend a lot of time stationary.
- Low consumer demand: The hybrid version of the Explorer did not sell well to the general public, accounting for a small percentage of total sales. Analysts noted that consumer interest was not strong enough to justify its continued production for retail customers.
- Shift to electrification: The discontinuation also aligns with Ford's larger strategy to focus on fully electric vehicles. By simplifying its lineup, the company can streamline production and focus resources on developing and manufacturing next-generation technology for its future electric offerings.
- Cost and complexity: The development and manufacturing of hybrid drivetrains can be costly. By removing the hybrid option, Ford can reduce overhead and streamline production processes, especially as the company works to address other issues with the Explorer's platform.
Does Ford make a plug-in hybrid Explorer?
And With the hybrid. System you can expect improved fuel efficiency. And reduced emissions.
How does the Ford Explorer hybrid work?
A: Ford's hybrid vehicles automatically switch between electric power and the gasoline engine based on driving conditions. At lower speeds or when idling, the electric motor takes over to save fuel. The gasoline engine kicks in for higher speeds or when additional power is needed.
How to charge a Ford Explorer hybrid?
It's as easy as that once you know you know just plug in and watch the magic. Happen with charging speeds of 10% to 80% in about 25. Minutes the electric Ford Explorer will be topped up in no time.
