The Ford Explorer Spearheads the Brand’s EV Production in Europe

Photo Source: Ford

The time has finally arrived: On June 4, 2024, Ford began mass production of the all-electric Explorer at its primary European plant, the Cologne Electric Vehicle Center. As a reminder, the Explorer was first presented in March 2023, over a year ago. Delivering daring American styling and approximately 373 miles of range, the electric Ford Explorer is the first vehicle to roll off the line at the site. 

GENERAL HIGHLIGHTS

• Launch of the all-electric Ford Explorer
• Investment and transformation
• Upcoming model
• Sustainability goals

The newly transformed facility marks a significant step on the road to producing a new generation of high-quality electric passenger vehicles for the region. Indeed, a second electric vehicle, a new sports crossover, will be unveiled shortly. It will be assembled in Cologne, Germany starting later this year (2024).

What Does the Cologne Electric Vehicle Center Represent to Ford?

Previously home to models such as the bygone Fiesta, Ford’s historic plant in Cologne was transformed as part of a $2 billion investment to gear up the automaker for its commitment to electric vehicles in Europe. The manufacturer announced its passenger vehicle lineup will go all-electric in Europe by 2030 – a century after the Cologne plant was founded.

“To see the Cologne factory founded by Ford in 1930 being transformed into a state-of-the-art electric vehicle production facility is nothing short of amazing. The start of mass production of electric vehicles, with the new all-electric Explorer, marks the beginning of a new era for Ford in Europe.”

–Kieran Cahill, vice president of Manufacturing for Ford in Europe and International Markets Group

For context, the new all-electric Explorer blends American design and German engineering with a superior standard specification, including battery electric powertrains that offer zero tailpipe emissions and a driving range of over 600 kilometers on a single charge. Moreover, the SUV’s German influence converts it into the Ford equivalent of the Volkswagen ID.4 because it is based on the same electric platform.

“Factory of the Future”

The historic plant is also a crucial hook of the Ford “Road to Better” strategy that aims for carbon neutrality across its European production facilities, from logistics to direct suppliers, by 2035. To that end, at the Cologne Electric Vehicle Center, the Blue Oval utilizes hundreds of state-of-the-art robots, including artificial intelligence, to help ensure the highest production quality. For example, self-learning machines are among the special features of the new Electric Vehicle Center. Maximum quality, precision, and efficiency are guaranteed by over 600 robots that perform tasks such as painting, welding, cleaning, fixing, and cutting.

Additionally, in the newly built control center, the entire production process can be monitored in real-time – right down to the number of individual nuts and bolts at a workstation. The so-called “digital twin” of the plant runs on a large touchscreen unit. It displays all workstations and associated details on material flows, tooling, work safety, and much more. The employees there provide further information about the status of their workstations via small touchscreens.

Commit to a Sustainable Future with NYE Ford!

Ford operates in 50 European markets, with a vigorous presence in service and manufacturing. The Cologne Electric Vehicle Center is a testament to the brand’s commitment to leading the transition to sustainable mobility while maintaining the dependability and high standards that customers expect. 

Regarding customers, keep in mind that our employees at NYE Ford can help sell your current vehicle or bring it back to life like new with an online service appointment to our service center. Please let our professional technicians get started on all repairs or maintenance work. Allow us the pleasure of helping you today.