The all-electric 2021 Ford Mustang Mach E is the first addition to the Mustang line-up in more than 50 years. More than that, however, it marks Ford’s first full-blooded foray into the brave new world of all-electric vehicles. Prices range from $43,895 to well north of $60,000. However, it’s well worth noting that Mach E buyers are eligible for the full $7,500 federal tax credit. Even better, in some US states the total rebate could amount to as much as $10,000.
In another departure from tradition, the newest Mustang, in addition to being all-electric, isn’t so much a sports car as a 5 seater SUV. This more family-friendly Mustang will be available in 5 separate variants; Select, Premium, First Edition, California Route 1, and, of course, GT.
Battery Options, Range, & Charging
When it comes to batteries, there are 2 options. You can either opt for the extended-range 98.8 kWh battery pack or the standard-range 75.7 kWh version. The larger battery pack if teamed with rear-wheel drive promises a range in excess of 300 miles. For all-wheel-drive models, however, the range falls away slightly to around 270 miles. Meanwhile, the equivalent range-figures for the 75.7 kWh battery pack are estimated at 230 miles and 210 miles respectively.
The Mach E is offered with Ford’s patented Connected Charging System. The system’s improved charging efficacy does, however, come with a catch. To fully capitalize on the system’s accelerated charging rates of up to 32 miles of range per hour, you’ll first need to install a 240-volt outlet. That said, even with a standard 120-volt outlet, the system is still capable of adding 30 miles of range across the duration of a night’s charging.
Out on the road, Ford has partnered with Electrify America to provide Mach E owners with access to an unrivalled network of 12,500 public charging stations. Superfast DC charging can restore battery life from 10% to 80% in as little as 38 minutes. Moreover, to take some of the stress out of re-charging, the Mach E’s navigation system is designed to highlight the best places to fill up on electricity.
Performance Figures
As you would expect given its automotive heritage, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach E is no slouch. The top-of-the-line GT Performance Edition, for example, produces 459 horsepower and can hit 60 mph in less than 4 seconds. This makes it just as quick off the line as a Porsche 911 GTS or as its gas-guzzling sister the Mustang Shelby GT500.
Further down the trim line power outputs remain impressive, ranging between 255 and 332 horsepower. As a result, even the entry-level Select model can hit 60 mph in 6 seconds.
Communications and Entertainment
The launch of the Mach E also sees the debut of Ford’s boundary-pushing SYNC infotainment system. Intuitive by design, SYNC employs machine learning to automatically adapt to drivers’ preferences. Moreover, the system’s many apps and features, including a Bang & Olufsen audio system, are accessible through a sleek 15.5-inch touchscreen display.
Cargo Space
Cargo space has been maximized by positioning the Mach E’s battery pack under the floor. Behind the rear seats alone, the Mach E offers 29 cubic feet of storage. When the back seats are folded down, however, this increases to up to 60 cubic feet. Moreover, if that wasn’t enough, the Mach E also offers a front trunk which provides an additional 4.8 cubic feet of storage.
