EXPLORER'S 4.6-litre, single overhead cam V8 engine - the first all-aluminium entry in a Ford off-roader - delivers 178kW at 5100 rpm and 382Nm of torque at 3700rpm, making it ideal for towing. The V8 was tuned for a sportier, more powerful sound under spirited acceleration. The engine's reliable coil-on-plug design eliminates conventional spark plug wires. Both engines meet US Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) standards. A next generation 32-bit Powertrain Electronic Controller (PTEC) manages all engine and transmission functions, along with speed control and many other powertrain functions. The PTEC allowed engineers to give the V8 a fail-safe cooling strategy to prevent engine damage through overheating. When the cylinder head temperature rises too high as a result of coolant loss, the engine's electronic controls shut off fuel to alternating banks of cylinders - but continue to pump cool air through those cylinders - to allow the driver to drive a short distance without engine damage.