Following a massive $2 billion dollar investment in the Cologne Assembly plant in Germany – which is now known as the Cologne Electric Vehicle Center – The Blue Oval began producing the all-new Ford Explorer and Capri EVs for the European market. Mass production of the Explorer EV began in June 2024, in fact, and was followed by the Capri a few months later. While demand for those new all-electric crossovers hasn’t quite matched expected levels thus far, we’re now learning a little bit more about the tires that are used on each.
Both the Ford Explorer and Capri EVs come equipped exclusively with Continental tires from the factory – to be more specific, either AllSeasonContact all-weather tires or EcoContact 6 Q summer tires in 19, 20, and 21-inch sizes for both vehicles. This is notable because EVs can benefit from special tires that offer up less rolling resistance, which can help maximize range, while those heavier vehicles also tend to wear out tires more quickly than traditional ICE models, too.
In that regard, the EcoContact 6 Q tires are designed for quiet and energy-efficient driving, and utilize a special rubber compound designed to reduce energy absorption and reduce friction and rolling resistance. These tires also feature modified blocks, spies, and side grooves to maximize lifespan and braking performance, as well as handling, in both dry and wet conditions. The same goes for the AllSeasonContact, which uses the same sort of technology in a tire that’s designed to work well in all weather conditions.
This is just one of several notable features present in the new Ford Explorer and Capri EV crossovers, and The Blue Oval continues to add to that list as well. Most recently, both of these models received bi-directional charging capability in Europe, though owners must have a solar system and a “house power plant” E3/DC system from HagerEnergy GmbH utilizing the EDISON V2H system to take advantage. With this setup, owners can charge their vehicles with electricity derived from solar energy, and in return, those vehicles can then provide energy back to the home when it’s needed.
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