This is the Ford Explorer EV. Join us as we head back home after our Blackpool Illuminations Road Trip!

The Blackpool Illuminations never fail to deliver a spectacular show of lights, colour, and festive energy. After soaking in the brilliance and charm of this iconic British attraction, it was time for Ben and I to head back to the Lake District. What better way to wrap up our road trip than putting the Ford Electric Explorer Premium to the test on the return leg? Packed with its rugged style, cutting-edge tech, and practical versatility, the Explorer proved to be more than just an electric SUV—it’s an ideal companion for a journey like this.

 

The return leg from Blackpool to the Lake District offered a mix of motorway cruising, scenic countryside roads, and the occasional detour to explore hidden gems. The Ford Electric Explorer adapted seamlessly to all of it, making the journey smooth, quiet, and efficient.

 

On the way back, the panoramic sunroof came into its own, bathing the cabin in natural light. The openness created a calming ambiance, particularly as it was now fully dark. It was a reminder that this EV isn’t just about getting you from A to B—it’s about making the journey itself a memorable experience.

 

Ford’s Premium trim spared no expense when it came to comfort. The supportive seats, trimmed in plush materials, felt like a hug after a long evening walking through the Illuminations. And yes, the massage function for the driver’s seat came into play once again—a feature that makes those motorway stretches far less tedious. Heated front and rear seats kept us toasty as the temperatures dropped, adding an extra layer of cosiness.

 

The Ford Electric Explorer delivers an impressive range—Ford claims up to 300 miles, though on this trip, we saw figures even higher, at times reaching 380 miles. This kind of range makes the Explorer stand out in the growing EV market, providing peace of mind for long road trips without constant charging stops.

 

Driving home in the Explorer meant experiencing its SYNC Move infotainment system in full swing. The 15-inch portrait touchscreen became our command centre, effortlessly handling navigation, music, and even cabin climate settings. The system is incredibly intuitive, allowing us to switch between apps and functions without taking our eyes off the road for too long.

 

The 360-degree camera system also proved invaluable during a quick detour to a charming but tightly packed village en route. With narrow streets and challenging parking spaces, having a bird’s-eye view of the car saved us from a few potential scrapes, letting us confidently navigate even the trickiest spots.

 

The Ford Electric Explorer feels like a cocoon of safety, packed with features that inspire confidence. On the motorway, the Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Keep Assist took the edge off long stretches of driving. The system smoothly adjusted our speed based on traffic flow, while lane centring kept the car in its lane even on curvy roads.

 

One of the standout features during the night drive was the Dynamic Matrix LED headlights. These intelligent lights adjusted their beam to illuminate corners, making the winding approach to the Lake District both safer and easier. The system also ensured we didn’t dazzle oncoming drivers, automatically dipping the high beams when needed.

 

One of the most striking aspects of the Explorer is its near-silent electric drive. As we cruised along rural roads under a starlit sky, the quietness of the cabin allowed us to appreciate the sounds of nature—something you rarely get with a combustion engine vehicle. This serenity is a game-changer for those who value a more peaceful driving experience.

 

The Explorer’s electric drivetrain also brings surprising performance. With 207 PS and 310 Nm of torque, acceleration is smooth and responsive, making overtaking effortless. Its agility shines through even on narrow, twisty roads, defying the stereotype that SUVs are clunky to handle.

 

The Ford Electric Explorer’s exterior design is undeniably eye-catching, but it’s the small touches that truly elevate its appeal. From the gloss black accents to the imposing grille Ford calls a “Shield,” every element feels purposeful. The large 21-inch alloy wheels on our Premium trim added a commanding presence, perfectly balanced with the car’s sleek lines.

 

Inside, the hidden storage compartment behind the touchscreen became our go-to for stashing valuables like wallets and sunglasses. It’s these clever design features that make the Explorer feel thoughtfully engineered for real-world use.

 

As we arrived back in the Lake District, there was a sense of contentment. The Explorer handled every aspect of the road trip with ease, from urban streets in Blackpool to the rural beauty of Cumbria. Its mix of style, technology, and practicality makes it a strong contender in the electric SUV segment. But the Explorer isn’t just about ticking boxes—it has personality. The seamless blend of rugged American styling and refined European engineering gives it a unique identity that stands out in a crowded market.

 

This is an SUV designed for modern families and adventurers alike. Whether you’re heading to a city for an event, taking the kids to school, or escaping to the countryside for the weekend, the Explorer adapts to fit your needs. Its spacious interior, advanced tech, and impressive range make it ideal for those who want an EV that doesn’t compromise on practicality or style.

 

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