Ford Puma EV: A New Electric Compact Crossover to Rival Peugeot and Mini
The Ford Puma, a popular compact crossover, is set to gain an electric variant in 2024. This new electric version will compete with the Peugeot e-2008 and the upcoming Mini Aceman. Recently, the electric Puma was spotted testing on public roads in Europe, wearing UK number plates and a full-body livery.
Distinctive Design and Features
Although most of the car was obscured, the distinctive shape of the Puma was still visible, even with its blanked-off front grille. The electric Puma shares its platform and powertrain with the Ford E-Transit Courier van, which uses an electrified version of the Puma’s front-driven B2E architecture. This suggests that the two vehicles will have similar specifications.
With regards to its technical makeup, Ford has revealed that the electric Puma will be produced alongside the ICE Puma in Craiova, Romania. It will feature a single battery, expected to be around 55kWh in capacity, which should provide a competitive range of approximately 230 miles. The e-2008, for comparison, has a 50kWh battery and can cover 212 miles per charge.
The electric Puma is likely to be equipped with a 134bhp motor, similar to its van sibling, giving it a 0-62mph time of around 9.0 seconds. However, Ford also has access to other motors, including 181bhp and 265bhp units used in the larger E-Transit. This opens up the possibility of a multi-powertrain Puma offering.
Pricing and Availability
Ford plans to position the Puma as the “utility version” of the Fiesta, with the EV version expected to remain on sale for many years. The electric Puma will be priced above the current ICE Puma, starting at around £25,000. However, it is anticipated that it will be competitively priced at around £35,000, in line with its rivals.
Ford’s Electrification Strategy
The electrification of the Puma is part of Ford’s broader electrification strategy, which involves a $22 billion investment through 2025. The company has already introduced electric versions of its most important vehicles, such as the Mustang, F-150, and Transit. The new Explorer electric SUV has also been recently unveiled.
The Ford Puma EV is set to enter production in early 2024, offering an exciting and competitive option in the growing electric compact crossover segment.