A representative of the American brand confirmed to Car & Driver magazine that in the 2024 model year, neither the Ford Explorer nor the “sister” premium crossover Lincoln Aviator will have gasoline-electric versions. The reasons for the sudden cessation of sales: a large purchase by the authorities of Police Interceptor Utility police hybrids based on the Explorer, as well as increased demand for other Ford hybrids.
The Ford Explorer is the best-selling crossover on the US market, but the demand for hybrid modifications is low, although in this configuration the crossover is the most economical: fuel consumption in the combined cycle is only 8.7 liters per 100 kilometers. The situation is similar with the Aviator Hybrid. However, the two models have different powertrains: the premium Lincoln crossover is a plug-in hybrid with a 3.0-liter V6, and the Explorer is a regular hybrid with a 3.3-liter V6 engine.
In the 2025 model year, both models are scheduled for restyling, and hybrid versions may return. However, a scenario cannot be ruled out in which gasoline-electric power plants will be abandoned altogether, and the bet will be made on an all-electric version. The American version will have nothing in common with the European electric crossover Ford Explorer: it will be based on its own platform, and the dimensions will be significantly larger.
American Ford buyers are wary of hybrids, with the Maverick light-duty pickup being the only exception. The Blue Oval even decided not to offer the gasoline-electric Ranger in the United States: the rechargeable hybrid frame pickup will remain exclusive to foreign markets.
We Lost Them: Ford Models That Gone and Never Came Back
