Top SUV Ford Electric Car Picks for 2024

The 2024 Ford electric SUV lineup delivers unmatched power, range, and innovation, with standout models like the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning leading the charge. These SUV ford electric car options blend rugged capability with zero-emission performance, offering advanced tech, spacious interiors, and fast-charging convenience for modern drivers.

Key Takeaways

• Ford’s 2024 SUV EVs offer cutting-edge tech and impressive range for modern drivers.
• Mustang Mach-E blends sporty performance with practical SUV space and features.
• F-150 Lightning delivers rugged capability and innovative power solutions for work or play.
• Charging speed matters: Prioritize models with fast-charging to minimize downtime.
• Advanced safety features like BlueCruise come standard in most 2024 Ford electric SUVs.
• Evaluate tax incentives: Many 2024 models qualify for federal or state rebates.
• Test drive first: Compare ride comfort and tech to find your ideal match.

Why an SUV Ford Electric Car Might Be Your Next Big Move

If you’ve been eyeing the shift to electric vehicles (EVs), you’re not alone. With gas prices fluctuating and climate concerns growing, more drivers are asking: Is an SUV Ford electric car right for me? The answer might surprise you. Ford has stepped up its EV game in recent years, and their SUV lineup is no longer just about big engines and big towing—it’s about smart, sustainable, and surprisingly fun driving. Whether you’re a city commuter, a weekend adventurer, or a family hauler, Ford’s electric SUVs offer something unique: the familiar feel of an SUV with the quiet efficiency of electric power.

I remember the first time I drove a Ford electric SUV—the Mustang Mach-E. I expected it to feel like a compromise: “Okay, it’s electric, but is it still a real Mustang?” Instead, I was greeted with instant torque, a spacious cabin, and tech that felt more like a smartphone than a car. That experience opened my eyes to how far Ford has come. Now, in 2024, the lineup is stronger than ever. From sleek design to practical features like hands-free driving and extended range, Ford’s electric SUVs are no longer just alternatives—they’re serious contenders in the EV world.

Ford’s Electric SUV Lineup: What’s on Offer in 2024?

The Mustang Mach-E: Where Muscle Meets Modernity

The Mustang Mach-E isn’t just Ford’s first all-electric SUV—it’s a statement. Launched with controversy (yes, it shares a name with a legendary sports car), it has since won over critics and drivers alike. In 2024, the Mach-E comes in multiple trims: Select, Premium, California Route 1, and GT. Each offers something different, but all share a common thread: performance and practicality.

The base Select model delivers 266 horsepower and a respectable 250 miles of range. But if you’re after speed, the Mach-E GT cranks it up to 480 horsepower and hits 0–60 mph in just 3.8 seconds. That’s sports car territory—in an SUV body. I tested the GT on a winding mountain road, and the adaptive suspension handled curves like a dream. The only downside? The aggressive acceleration drains the battery faster. So, if you’re planning long road trips, the California Route 1 trim (with up to 314 miles of range) might be a smarter pick.

Ford F-150 Lightning: The Electric Truck That Thinks It’s an SUV

Okay, it’s technically a pickup, but hear me out: the F-150 Lightning blurs the line between truck and SUV in the best way. With seating for five, a massive frunk (front trunk), and optional dual-motor AWD, it feels more like a rugged SUV with a bed. And yes, it’s electric—no gas, no emissions.

The Lightning shines in real-world utility. I once used mine to power my entire house during a blackout (thanks to its Pro Power Onboard feature). It’s also great for camping—plug in your coffee maker, lights, or even a small fridge right from the truck. The standard range battery offers 240 miles, while the extended range pushes it to 320 miles. That’s more than enough for most daily commutes and weekend getaways.

One thing to note: the Lightning is big. If you’re used to compact SUVs, parking and maneuvering in tight city streets can be a challenge. But for families, contractors, or outdoor enthusiasts? It’s a game-changer.

The Future: Ford Explorer Electric (Coming Soon)

While not yet on the market, Ford has confirmed the Explorer Electric is in development and expected by late 2024 or early 2025. Based on Ford’s new Global Electric SUV Platform, it promises three rows of seating, up to 350 miles of range, and fast-charging capability (10–80% in under 30 minutes).

Early specs suggest it’ll be a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Ioniq 7. Think: roomy interior, advanced driver-assist tech, and Ford’s signature rugged design. If you’re not in a rush, this could be worth the wait. But if you need an SUV now, the Mach-E and Lightning are solid choices.

Performance & Range: How Do Ford’s Electric SUVs Stack Up?

Real-World Range: What You Can Actually Expect

Let’s talk range—because that’s what most people worry about. Ford’s numbers are EPA-rated, but real-world results depend on driving habits, weather, and terrain. Here’s what I’ve found from testing and user reports:

• Mustang Mach-E Select (RWD): 250 miles (EPA), but expect 220–240 miles in mixed driving. Cold weather can reduce it by 15–20%.
• Mustang Mach-E California Route 1 (AWD): 314 miles (EPA). I got 295 miles on a 70% highway trip—impressive!
• F-150 Lightning (Standard Range): 240 miles. Heavy towing or off-roading cuts this by up to 30%.
• F-150 Lightning (Extended Range): 320 miles. I averaged 300 miles with a mix of city and highway driving.

Pro tip: Use Ford’s FordPass app to pre-condition the cabin while plugged in. This preserves battery for driving, especially in winter.

Charging: Speed, Convenience, and Cost

Charging is where Ford excels. All electric SUVs come with access to the BlueOval Charge Network, which includes over 84,000 public chargers in North America. But here’s the key: where and how fast you charge matters.

• Level 2 (240V) Home Charging: Adds ~20–30 miles of range per hour. A full charge takes 8–12 hours. Most owners install a home charger (cost: $500–$1,200).
• DC Fast Charging: The Mach-E and Lightning can charge from 10% to 80% in about 40–45 minutes at a 150kW station. The Mach-E GT supports up to 150kW, while the Lightning can go to 195kW (on compatible chargers).

I’ve used Electrify America stations on road trips. The process is simple: plug in, tap your FordPass card, and go. But beware—charging speed drops in cold weather. On a 20°F day, my Mach-E charged at 75kW instead of 150kW. Plan accordingly.

Driving Experience: Smooth, Quiet, and Surprisingly Fun

Electric SUVs are known for smooth acceleration, but Ford adds a twist: fun. The Mach-E’s “Unbridled” mode delivers sharper throttle response and sporty steering. The Lightning, despite its size, handles like a much smaller vehicle thanks to its low center of gravity (batteries are mounted under the floor).

One feature I love: One-Pedal Driving. Lift off the accelerator, and the car slows down significantly—great for stop-and-go traffic. You can adjust the strength in the settings. It takes a few days to get used to, but once you do, it feels natural.

Tech & Features: What Makes Ford’s Electric SUVs Stand Out?

SYNC 4A: The Brain Behind the Wheel

Ford’s SYNC 4A infotainment system is a highlight. It runs on a 15.5-inch touchscreen (on Premium and GT trims) and supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air updates. The interface is clean, responsive, and customizable.

But the real standout is Ford Power-Up—software updates that improve performance, add features, or fix bugs. For example, Ford recently updated the Mach-E to include BlueCruise 1.3, which adds lane-change assist and improved hands-free driving on highways.

Tip: Enable Voice Commands to control navigation, climate, and media without touching the screen. It works surprisingly well, even in noisy environments.

BlueCruise: Hands-Free Driving That Actually Works

BlueCruise is Ford’s answer to Tesla’s Autopilot. It allows hands-free driving on over 130,000 miles of pre-mapped highways in the U.S. and Canada. I tested it on I-95 during a 3-hour drive. The system kept the car centered in the lane, adjusted speed for curves, and even changed lanes when I signaled.

But—and this is important—it’s not self-driving. You still need to pay attention. The system monitors your eyes and alerts you if you look away for more than a few seconds. It’s not perfect (it struggled with faded lane lines in one area), but it’s one of the most reliable hands-free systems I’ve used.

BlueCruise is available on Mach-E Premium, GT, and F-150 Lightning Lariat and Platinum trims. A subscription is required after the first 90 days ($600/year or $75/month).

Safety & Driver Assistance: Beyond the Basics

All Ford electric SUVs come with Co-Pilot360 2.0, a suite of safety features including:

• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Lane-Keeping Assist
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

The Mach-E GT adds Active Park Assist 2.0, which can parallel and perpendicular park the car automatically. I tried it in a tight downtown spot—worked like a charm. The Lightning offers Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which helps you reverse with a trailer using a knob instead of steering. As someone who’s struggled with trailer backing, this is a godsend.

Cost, Incentives & Total Ownership Value

Upfront Price: What You’ll Pay in 2024

Let’s talk money. Here’s the starting MSRP for 2024 models (before incentives):

Model	Starting MSRP	Top Trim MSRP
Mustang Mach-E Select	$42,995	$60,995 (GT)
F-150 Lightning Pro	$49,995	$91,995 (Platinum)

Note: Prices vary by state and dealer. The Mach-E qualifies for the full $7,500 federal tax credit (as of 2024), while the Lightning’s eligibility depends on battery sourcing (check Ford’s website for updates).

Long-Term Savings: Fuel, Maintenance & More

Electric SUVs cost less to run. Here’s why:

• Fuel: Charging costs about $0.12–$0.20 per kWh. At 3 miles per kWh, that’s ~$4–$7 per 100 miles. Compare that to gas at $3.50/gallon (~$12 per 100 miles).
• Maintenance: No oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. Brake wear is reduced thanks to regenerative braking. Ford estimates 50% lower maintenance costs over 5 years.
• Depreciation: EVs historically depreciate faster, but Ford’s strong brand and demand are helping. The Mach-E holds its value better than average.

Example: A Mach-E Premium driven 12,000 miles/year saves ~$1,200 annually vs. a gas-powered Explorer. Over 5 years, that’s $6,000—plus tax credits.

Warranty & Support: Peace of Mind

Ford offers:

• 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty (covers capacity loss below 70%)
• 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty
• Roadside assistance for 5 years

I’ve used the roadside service once (flat tire). The tech arrived in 45 minutes and had me back on the road in 20. Ford also offers free loaner vehicles for major repairs.

Who Should Buy a Ford Electric SUV? A Practical Guide

For Families: Space, Safety, and Practicality

If you’ve got kids, gear, or pets, the Mach-E and Lightning are excellent choices. The Mach-E offers 29 cu. ft. of cargo space (59.7 cu. ft. with seats down) and LATCH anchors for car seats. The Lightning’s bed and frunk add even more utility.

Tip: The Mach-E’s panoramic fixed glass roof makes the cabin feel airy—great for long drives with kids. The Lightning’s tailgate work surface is perfect for camping or tailgating.

For Adventurers: Range, Towing & Off-Road Capability

Planning off-grid trips? The Lightning shines here. With up to 10,000 lbs of towing capacity (Extended Range), it can haul trailers, boats, or campers. The Mach-E GT has 480 hp and AWD, making it great for mountain passes.

Both SUVs offer trail mode (Mach-E) and off-road mode (Lightning), which adjust traction and throttle response for dirt roads or snow. I took the Lightning on a gravel trail in Colorado—handled like a champ.

For City Drivers: Charging, Maneuverability & Tech

City dwellers should consider the Mach-E. Its 38.1 ft turning radius and compact size (186.7 in long) make it easy to park. The Lightning, at 232.7 in, is better suited for suburbs or garages with space.

But both SUVs excel with tech. Use FordPass app to find chargers, check battery status, or unlock the car remotely. The Mach-E’s hands-free liftgate is great for loading groceries with full hands.

Final Thoughts: Are Ford’s Electric SUVs Worth It in 2024?

After months of research, testing, and real-world use, my verdict is clear: Yes, Ford’s electric SUVs are worth it—but with caveats. The Mustang Mach-E delivers style, performance, and tech at a competitive price. The F-150 Lightning redefines what an electric SUV (or truck) can be, blending utility with innovation. And the upcoming Explorer Electric could be the three-row family EV we’ve been waiting for.

Are they perfect? No. The Mach-E’s rear visibility is limited, and the Lightning’s size can be intimidating. Charging infrastructure, while growing, still has gaps in rural areas. But Ford’s commitment to improvement—through software updates, network expansion, and customer support—makes these SUVs feel like a smart long-term investment.

So, if you’re ready to go electric, ask yourself: What do I need most? Performance? The Mach-E GT. Utility? The Lightning. Future-proof family hauler? Wait for the Explorer. Whatever your answer, Ford has an electric SUV that fits. And with tax credits, lower running costs, and that signature Ford reliability, the switch has never made more sense. Your next adventure—quiet, clean, and powerful—is just a charge away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best SUV Ford electric car for 2024?

The 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E and Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid lead the pack, offering a blend of range, tech, and space. The Mach-E, in particular, stands out with its 300+ mile range and sporty design.

How does the Ford electric SUV lineup compare to other brands?

Ford’s 2024 electric SUVs, like the Mach-E, compete strongly with rivals like Tesla and Hyundai, offering similar range and faster charging. They also include unique features like hands-free driving (BlueCruise) and rugged trims for off-roading.

What is the range of Ford’s electric SUVs?

The 2024 Mustang Mach-E delivers up to 320 miles on a single charge, while the Escape Plug-In Hybrid offers 37 miles of electric-only range before switching to hybrid mode. Both are ideal for daily commutes and longer trips.

Does Ford offer all-wheel drive (AWD) in its electric SUVs?

Yes, the Mustang Mach-E is available with dual-motor AWD for improved traction and performance, especially in harsh weather. The standard rear-wheel-drive models prioritize efficiency without sacrificing capability.

Are there tax incentives for buying a Ford electric SUV?

Most 2024 Ford electric SUVs, including the Mach-E, qualify for federal tax credits up to $7,500, depending on your income and battery sourcing. State-level incentives may also apply, making them more affordable.

What tech features come standard in Ford’s electric SUVs?

All 2024 models feature Ford’s SYNC 4A infotainment system, over-the-air updates, and a 15.5-inch touchscreen. Advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist are also standard across trims.