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Ford is embarking on a reflective journey to reintroduce small cars as part of its strategy to create profitable electric vehicles (EVs). On Wednesday, the company is set to unveil an electric version of the iconic Ford Capri. A teaser released last week on X depicted a man attempting to charge a vintage Capri at a station. The driver, confused by his inability to charge the petrol-powered classic, drives away as a tagline reveals “The legend is back 10.07.24.” Today, we gained insights into what Ford’s contemporary version of the Capri will likely resemble, and it may not appeal to Mustang purists who are already skeptical of the Mach-E badge.
This development was anticipated. Speculation around a Capri crossover has circulated since reports from Autocar and Automotive News Europe surfaced about an upcoming Ford EV that will be the second model manufactured on Volkswagen’s MEB platform. Earlier this year, Ford debuted an all-electric Explorer for international markets, based on the VW ID.4 and produced at its Cologne Electric Vehicle Center in Germany. Similar to how the Explorer EV diverges from its gasoline-powered American variant, the new Capri EV will significantly differ in design, as suggested by a supposedly leaked image shared on Instagram by Car Design World and earlier spy photos from Autocar.
Originally introduced as a fastback coupe, the first Ford Capri was envisioned as Europe’s response to the Ford Mustang. It was produced across three generations from 1969 to 1989 and was so successful that it found a market in the U.S. as the Mercury Capri, made in Europe and exported to North America, Australia, South Africa, and beyond. Ford’s recent tweet showcased one of the vintage models, characterizing it as a practical and compact vehicle, which starkly contrasts with today’s automotive standards.
The legend is back.
10.07.24 pic.twitter.com/uTq3UMHcn6
— Ford News Europe (@FordNewsEurope) July 7, 2024
The new iteration of the Capri will feature a four-door crossover design with a sleek roofline, often labeled as a “coupe” SUV by manufacturers. It is expected to share its VW-sourced electric drivetrain with the Explorer EV, delivering around 330 horsepower and an impressive range of up to 374 miles, thanks to the optional 77-kWh battery that supports charging speeds of up to 170 kW.
The modern Capri will resemble the VW ID.5, a model that is not available in the U.S. However, its design deviates significantly from the wedge-shaped coupe that inspired its name. Amko Leenarts, Ford’s Chief Designer for the European market, expressed in an interview with Autocar that “retro designs aren’t moving us forward,” emphasizing the company’s inclination towards a “totally new interpretation.” Still, many purists might argue that a midsize crossover branded with the name of a cherished classic coupe does not align with the nostalgic hope for a revival of small, enjoyable cars. If Ford genuinely seeks to break free from past constraints, why not consider rebranding this new “coupe” SUV with a fresh name?
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