Ford’s Mustang-Inspired Electric Crossover Teased, Confirmed For Fall 2020 Launch

Ford has released official ‘spy’ photos of their highly anticipated Mustang-inspired electric crossover.

Apparently shown in mule form, the prototype isn’t much of a looker as it resembles a cobbled-together version of the previous-generation Escape.

Putting that aside, Ford did confirm new details about the upcoming electric vehicle which is slated to have an EPA-estimated range of at least 300 miles (483 km). First and foremost, the company revealed the crossover will be launched in the fall of 2020. That’s still a ways off, but the production model or a thinly veiled concept could debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this year.

Ford also suggested the model will be pretty quick as they said “If you want to capture the spirit of a Mustang, you have to be fast.” The company went on to hint the crossover will have plenty of capability, roominess and “pure torque-drenched exhilaration.”

There’s no word on performance specs, but Ford said the crossover should have scheduled maintenance costs which are approximately 38 percent less than those of the 2020 Escape over five years or 75,000 miles (120,701 km). The company also promised access to a “comprehensive nationwide network of charging stations.” Additional information will be released at a later date, but Ford said customers will be able to find and pay for charging using the FordPass app.

Also Read: Is This Our First Look At The 2020 Ford Mach 1 Electric Crossover?

Besides teasing the upcoming crossover, Ford launched a new campaign aimed at dismissing myths about electric vehicles.  According to a survey, the automaker discovered “more than 90 percent of Americans and Europeans don’t believe quick acceleration is a great benefit of electric vehicles.”  Ford says that’s understandable as many early electric vehicles were compliance cars that were essentially half baked.

Ford says that’s no longer an issue as their upcoming electrified vehicles will be “awesome to drive.” As Ford’s Global Director of Electrification, Ted Cannis, explained, EVs have “instant torque” which is a “fancy term that means electric vehicles can accelerate like hell if you want.”

Ford’s survey also revealed that 42 percent of Americans believe electric vehicles require gas.  That’s pretty sad, but the belief can likely be chalked up to early plug-in hybrids.

Cannis went to say many electric vehicles owners have never visited a public charging station.  That might sound odd, but a vast majority of charging (80%) is done at home.  The second most common place to charge is at work.

Ford also highlighted the extreme conditions they tested the Mustang-inspired electric crossover in. As part of this effort, they showed the model being put through the paces at the Smithers Winter Test Center in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.  The company also revealed the battery has been tested to withstand temperatures of -40° F (-40° C).