The new all-electric Ford Explorer has scooped the prestigious Red Dot Award in the Product Design category, with the international jury awarding the prestigious accolade recognizing the new SUV’s bold exterior aesthetics and praising its refined interior.

Since January this year, the new Ford Explorer, which has been developed in Europe for Europe, has been produced at the Cologne Electric Vehicle Center. The award coincides with the launch of the new Ford Explorer in all European markets, with vehicles now available in dealerships for test drives and customer deliveries.

The Red Dot Award is one of the most well-known and recognized design competitions in the world. Professors, designers, journalists and other experts from various fields from 24 countries were invited to form the jury. Each member then independently evaluated each nomination based on several criteria, including level of innovation, functionality, ergonomics, durability and ecological compatibility. This is Ford’s third Red Dot Award, with the Ford Fiesta winning in the Product Design category in 2009 and the Mustang Mach-E’s B&O sound system winning the Car Audio System category in 2021.

Statements

“The Ford Explorer impresses on the outside with a typical SUV design and on the inside with its high-quality technical equipment.”
Jury Statement, The Red Dot Award

“We chose a simple design language with striking elements that adopts and reinterprets the aesthetic features of the iconic American Ford Explorer. It combines a modern, clean aesthetic with unparalleled functionality.”
Murat Güler, chief designer, Passenger Vehicles., Ford of Europe

New Ford Explorer with a new design language

The new Explorer completely reinterprets the confident looks and rugged appeal of Ford’s iconic SUV family.

While the dynamic appearance and independent identity refer to the American heritage of the legendary off-roader, its flowing, futuristic and muscular lines follow the principles of aerodynamic performance. Thanks to the black A-pillars, the roof appears to float above the passenger cabin. This creates an appearance that underlines the lifestyle appeal of the crossover model. A characteristic line, harmoniously integrated into the side glass surfaces, characterizes the impressively designed C-pillars. At the rear, the appearance of the new Explorer is shaped by compact proportions that exude dynamism. Combined with the narrow rear windshield, they emphasize the width of the vehicle. Also, the vertically positioned rear lights with the ‘Light Blade’ signature emphasize the SUV character.

The welcoming interior is characterized by a sporty aura, thanks to the curved design of the cockpit that best joins the dashboard with the door panels. All of the cabin’s tech features are in keeping with its minimalist aesthetic, with ultra-slim vents and sculpted soundbar-like speakers stealing the show.