@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
@ Volvo Cars
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Ford Explorer EV vs Volvo XC40 – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Two cars, one duel: Ford Explorer EV meets Volvo XC40.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

Explorer EV @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Electrifying Experience: Ford Explorer EV vs. Fuel-Savvy Volvo XC40

As the automotive industry shifts towards sustainability, choosing the right SUV has never been more exciting—or challenging. Today, we dive into an exhilarating comparison between the 2024 Ford Explorer EV and the 2024 Volvo XC40, two SUVs that exemplify the evolution of transportation technology. Each vehicle offers its unique charms, innovations, and performance capabilities that cater to distinct preferences and needs of modern drivers.

XC40 @ Volvo Cars

Powertrain and Performance: Electric vs. Petrol MHEV

The Ford Explorer EV, an electric-powered SUV, impresses with its cutting-edge electric motors that deliver power outputs ranging from 170 HP to a thrilling 340 HP, offering multiple driving configurations from rear-wheel to all-wheel drive. Notably, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 5.3 seconds, thanks to its high torque outputs peaking at 679 Nm.

On the flip side, the Volvo XC40 brings an advanced Petrol Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) system to the table. Available with engine options producing 163 HP or 197 HP, its system ensures a confident acceleration, reaching 100 km/h from rest in a respectable 7.6 seconds. While it might lag behind the Explorer EV in terms of rapid acceleration, the XC40 delivers a smoother, more classic driving experience with its dual-clutch automatic transmission offering seamless gear shifts.

Explorer EV @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Efficiency and Range: A Battle of Extremes

When it comes to efficiency, the Ford Explorer EV leaves an eco-friendly mark with zero CO2 emissions and a consumption as low as 13.9 kWh/100 km. Its battery capacity options of 52 kWh, 77 kWh, and 79 kWh provide an extensive range, reaching up to 602 km between charges, without sacrificing power or performance.

In contrast, the Volvo XC40, with a consumption rate of 6.5 L/100 km and CO2 emissions standing between 147 and 148 g/km, offers a practical solution for those not ready to transition fully to electric. Its fuel tank capacity of 54 L ensures long drives without frequent stops, though earth-conscious consumers might not appreciate its CO2 efficiency class of E.

XC40 @ Volvo Cars

Dimensions and Design: Space Meets Style

Despite their shared SUV classification, the Explorer EV and XC40 distinguish themselves with distinctive design and dimension nuances. The Ford Explorer EV boasts a slightly longer body at 4468 mm with standard five-door access, prioritizing a sleek, aerodynamic profile that doesn’t sacrifice the trunk capacity, offering up to 450 L of cargo space.

Equally accommodating, the XC40 measures slightly shorter at 4425 mm but makes up for it with clever interior space management, providing a competitive trunk capacity of 452 L. The XC40’s design screams Scandinavian simplicity and sophistication, creating an interior ambiance that's both luxurious and welcoming.

Explorer EV @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

In-Depth Innovation and Technology

The Ford Explorer EV shines in its incorporation of modern technological advancements. Its electric architecture allows for over-the-air software updates, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, and an intuitive infotainment system—all elevating the driving experience into the digital age.

Volvo’s XC40 stays true to its heritage with top-tier safety features and thoughtful driver-assistance technologies, including its revered IntelliSafe suite. This sophisticated system ensures peace of mind with adaptive cruise control, collision avoidance, and lane-keeping assist, reinforcing Volvo's commitment to safety.

XC40 @ Volvo Cars

Final Verdict: Choose Your Adventure

Ultimately, the decision between the Ford Explorer EV and the Volvo XC40 comes down to personal preference and lifestyle. The Ford Explorer EV leads the charge with its electric innovation and impressive range, ideal for those ready to embrace the electric future. Meanwhile, the Volvo XC40 remains a compelling option for traditionalists seeking a balance of modern features and classic driving dynamics. Regardless of choice, both SUVs guarantee a refined driving experience, reflecting the evolving landscape of automotive technology.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Ford Explorer EV has a slight advantage in terms of price – it starts at 34200 £, while the Volvo XC40 costs 36800 £. That’s a price difference of around 2562 £.

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Ford Explorer EV has a significantly edge – offering 340 HP compared to 197 HP. That’s roughly 143 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Ford Explorer EV is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.30 s, while the Volvo XC40 takes 7.60 s. That’s about 2.30 s faster.

There’s no difference in top speed – both reach 180 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Ford Explorer EV pulls clearly stronger with 679 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 379 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Volvo XC40 is to a small extent lighter – 1688 kg compared to 1908 kg. The difference is around 220 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Volvo XC40 offers barely noticeable more room – 452 L compared to 450 L. That’s a difference of about 2 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Ford Explorer EV performs slight better – up to 1422 L, which is about 94 L more than the Volvo XC40.

When it comes to payload, Ford Explorer EV slight takes the win – 585 kg compared to 532 kg. That’s a difference of about 53 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Ford Explorer EV shows itself to be wins the duel decisively and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £34,200
Explorer EV @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Ford Explorer EV

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 170 - 340 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 14.5 - 17.2 kWh
  • Electric Range : 360 - 602 km

Ford Explorer EV

5 (2)
rate

The Ford Explorer EV marks a significant step forward in the brand's journey towards electrification, offering an impressive blend of performance and sustainability. This modern SUV features a sleek design complemented by advanced technology that enhances the driving experience. With a focus on comfort and innovation, the Explorer EV aims to redefine family travel for the electric age.

details

Volvo XC40

5 (1)
rate

The Volvo XC40 wraps Scandinavian minimalism into a compact, city-ready SUV with a premium cabin that feels both practical and grown-up. It will suit buyers who prize safety, clever storage and a composed ride, proving that small dimensions don't mean small personality.

details
Ford Explorer EV
Volvo XC40
Explorer EV @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
XC40 @ Volvo Cars

Costs and Consumption

Price
34200 - 48800 £
Price
36800 - 47200 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
6.50 L
Consumption kWh/100km
14.5 - 17.2 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
360 - 602 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
52 - 79 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
147 - 148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
54 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1908 - 2179 kg
Curb weight
1688 kg
Trunk capacity
445 - 450 L
Trunk capacity
452 L
Length
4468 mm
Length
4425 mm
Width
1871 mm
Width
1863 mm
Height
1630 - 1639 mm
Height
1652 mm
Max trunk capacity
1417 - 1422 L
Max trunk capacity
1328 L
Payload
561 - 585 kg
Payload
532 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
170 - 340 HP
Power HP
163 - 197 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.3 - 8.7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 8.6 s
Max Speed
160 - 180 km/h
Max Speed
180 km/h
Torque
310 - 679 Nm
Torque
265 - 300 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
125 - 250 kW
Power kW
120 - 145 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
1969 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
E
Brand
Ford
Brand
Volvo
What drive types are available for the Ford Explorer EV?

The Ford Explorer EV is available as Rear-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.