New Ford Electric Explorer Begins Production
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Ford has begun mass production of its new all-electric Explorer at the newly transformed Ford Cologne Electric Vehicle Center. This marks the start of a new era for Ford in Europe, with the facility being a cornerstone of Ford’s strategy to achieve carbon neutrality across its European operations by 2035. The plant’s advanced technology and sustainable practices set a new standard in electric vehicle production.
Key Highlights:
- Launch of the all-electric Ford Explorer: The first vehicle produced at the new Ford Cologne Electric Vehicle Center.
- Investment and Transformation: A $2 billion investment transformed the historic Cologne plant into a state-of-the-art EV production facility.
- Upcoming Model: A new sports crossover EV will also begin production in Cologne later this year.
- Sustainability Goals: The new facility plays a key role in Ford’s plan to achieve carbon neutrality across its European operations by 2035.
Production Begins at Cologne Electric Vehicle Center: Ford has commenced mass production of the all-electric Ford Explorer at its first dedicated EV facility in Europe. This milestone follows a significant $2 billion investment to transform a historic plant in Cologne into a modern Electric Vehicle Center.
The Ford Explorer, the first vehicle off the new production line, represents a major step towards producing high-quality electric vehicles for European customers. The new all-electric Explorer combines German engineering and American design with a superior standard specification, including battery electric powertrains that offer zero tailpipe emissions and a driving range of over 600 km on a single charge.
Innovative Manufacturing Processes: The Cologne Electric Vehicle Center features cutting-edge AI and over 600 state-of-the-art robots performing tasks such as welding, cutting, and painting. This advanced automation ensures precision, efficiency, and high quality in every vehicle produced.
The plant utilizes a “digital twin” system, which monitors and supports production line operators to maintain high-quality standards. A new control center provides real-time monitoring of the entire assembly process, enhancing the efficiency and quality of production.
Sustainable and Efficient Production: Ford’s Cologne facility is among its most efficient vehicle assembly plants globally, with significant reductions in emissions, water usage, and energy consumption. The company is committed to a carbon neutrality pathway for the facility, monitoring greenhouse gas emissions for independent certification and continually improving carbon efficiency.
The plant operates entirely on certified renewable electricity and biomethane, further contributing to Ford’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality across its European production facilities by 2035.
Commitment to a Sustainable Future: Ford, a globally recognized American brand, has been an integral part of Europe for over a century. The company’s Ford+ plan aims to accelerate its transformation to an all-electric, carbon-neutral future by 2035. This includes the introduction of bold new EVs designed for European drivers and innovative services to support connectivity, community growth, and business success.
Ford operates in 50 European markets, with a robust presence in manufacturing and service. The Cologne Electric Vehicle Center is a testament to Ford’s commitment to leading the transition to sustainable mobility while maintaining the high standards and reliability that customers expect.
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