LA show: Ford’s Mach E crossover draws near

FORD is just one month away from revealing its first all-electric crossover ahead of the Los Angeles motor show, with the Mustang-inspired model increasingly likely to be badged as Mach E.

Late last year, the Blue Oval filed trademark applications with North American and European authorities for Mach E, an electric twist on the storied Mach 1 moniker that was originally confirmed for the zero-emissions SUV when it was announced at the 2018 Detroit motor show.

This move was made due to backlash from Mustang enthusiasts that were less than pleased that the Mach 1 would be used for anything but Ford’s traditional muscle car.

That said, the brand has been at pains to point out that the all-electric crossover is inspired by the Mustang, which is made more obvious by its latest teaser sketch that depicts its Fastback-style side profile, complete with a sloping roofline and prominent rear haunches.

Ford released similar darkened sketches last year, which instead gave an indication of what the zero-emissions SUV’s front and rear ends will look like, confirming that the Mustang’s Pony badge and three-striped tail-light signature will feature respectively.

The marque has also confirmed that the all-electric crossover has a targeted WLTP driving range of up to 600km, which would put it right in the conversation with the Tesla Model X, Jaguar I-Pace, Mercedes-Benz EQC and Audi E-tron.

Electrify America, Ford’s North American public electric vehicle (EV) charging network partner, has let slip a few additional details, confirming that the zero-emissions SUV will come with rear-wheel drive and an extended-range battery at minimum.

Hooked up to a 150kW DC fast charger, the all-electric crossover will be able to add up to 76km of driving range in 10 minutes.

As reported, the zero-emissions SUV will not be heading Down Under as it will exclusively be sold in the North American and European markets.

The all-electric crossover will be revealed in LA at 1.00pm on Monday, November 18 (AEDT), with sales to begin sometime next year.

The zero-emissions SUV is one of several battery-electric vehicles that Ford currently has under development. These include a zero-emissions version of the F-150 full-size pick-up and possibly models based on alliance partner Volkswagen’s MEB platform.