American electric automaker Ford is set to revive the iconic Capri nameplate for an all-new electric crossover, according to CarBuzz. This exciting development marks a significant shift for the legendary car, transforming it from a sporty coupe to a sleek and practical EV.
The revival is poised to be unveiled next month at Ford’s revamped Cologne plant in Germany, which has been specifically retooled for electric vehicle production.
Ford’s Cologne plant gears up for electric Capri launch
Fresh off the production launch of its electric Explorer in Germany, Ford is wasting no time with its next EV. According to Automotive News, Ford will reveal the new Capri EV sports crossover on July 10, 2024.
The American automaker teased a second electric vehicle coming “shortly,” slated for production later in 2024. This new model, described as a sporty crossover, leverages a partnership with Volkswagen.
Originally, Ford planned an EV successor to the Mustang Mach-E, which turned out to be the electric Explorer. However, whispers of a second model have already been swirling, and reports suggest it might be called the Capri.
For context, the original Ford Capri was a major success story in the late 1960s and early 1970s, racking up sales figures in the millions.
Ford partners with Volkswagen for the MEB platform
To bring the electric Capri to life, Ford is partnering with Volkswagen. The new EV will be built on Volkswagen’s MEB platform, following the electric Explorer.
The MEB platform is a proven architecture that underpins several successful electric vehicles like the Volkswagen ID.4.
This collaboration allows Ford to leverage existing technology and expedite the Capri’s development process.
What to expect from the new Ford Capri?
While details remain scarce, reports suggest the electric Capri will be a “sports crossover,” combining sporty aesthetics with the practicality of an SUV. This design approach aligns with the growing trend of coupe SUVs, which offer a blend of style, comfort, and cargo space. Drawing inspiration from the original Capri’s sleek lines, we can expect a modern interpretation prioritizing aerodynamics and efficiency.
Previous spy shots suggest a design similar to other MEB-based vehicles, featuring a long wheelbase for spaciousness and a wide stance for stability. Comparisons have been drawn to the Cupra Tavascan, another electric SUV built on the same platform.
While specifics are yet to be confirmed, we can expect the Capri EV to share some performance characteristics with its electric Explorer sibling. The Explorer boasts a powerful dual-motor setup with up to 335 horsepower, mirroring the powertrain in Volkswagen’s GTX models with a 79 kWh battery pack.
Range is another area where the Capri might follow the Explorer’s lead. The Explorer’s impressive range of 374 miles (600 km) on a single charge hints at the potential for the Capri to offer a similarly long driving distance.
The electric Capri’s arrival signifies a new chapter for the beloved nameplate. With its cutting-edge electric powertrain, stylish design, and potential for strong performance, the electric Capri is poised to capture the hearts of a new generation of drivers. Stay tuned for the official reveal next month, which will provide a clearer picture of what this electrifying revival has in store.
Concrete pricing details haven’t been revealed yet. However, considering the Explorer’s starting price of around £45,875 ($58,000), the Capri might fall within a similar range. A more affordable standard-range model might also be offered later, starting at about £39,875 ($50,000).
