JORDAN DEMKIW
Lead Designer, Ford Explorer
Using VW’s MEB platform presented Ford with a few challenges but also opportunities, as Demkiw explains.
Q
What inspired the design of the new Ford Explorer?
A
“Our new Explorer is unique for Europe. It’s a bit different to our current offerings; the design draws inspiration from the [US-spec] Explorer, but in a more compact and nimble way. The mantra was to embody a very bold, dynamic design that uses a simplified, pure, very aero-driven aesthetic.”
Q
Were there any restrictions or complications from inheriting the platform from VW?
A
“There were obviously some platform components we couldn’t move as much as we ordinarily would. But we were able to get the shorter rear, the A-pillars further rearward, a wider track. All of those things have a big impact in the end.”
Q
An impact in terms of design, as well as dynamics?
A
“The dynamics are all specific to Ford – the suspension dampers, the tyres, the chassis tuning. We wanted to make sure this car very much drives like a Ford. There weren’t a whole lot of restrictions; we were able to achieve what we wanted to achieve with it.”
Q
Was it always the plan to make this new compact EV part of the Explorer family, rather than an extension of the existing Mach-E range?
A
“This was always going to be a Ford product. The Mustang Mach-E is a successful product, and this is going to complement that by expanding on other iconic names; Explorer was a really good brand to build upon.”
Q
Even in Europe? Explorer doesn’t have much history in the UK or Europe.
A
“It’ll be interesting for all of us. It all fits with that ‘adventurous spirit’ mantra – if you want to blaze a trail and go on the open road. You can just go exploring, as Explorer the name suggests.”