Ford Mach-E debut

Last night, Ford introduced the Mustang Mach-E, an electric crossover, via a live YouTube event. This was similar to the event Chevrolet put on, introducing the 2020 mid-engine Stingray to the world.

There will be several Mustang Mach-E trim/performance levels, including:

• GT Performance Edition, which boasts 0-60 mph in the mid-3 second range, 342 kW (459 horsepower) and 830 Nm (612 lb.-ft.!!!) of torque
• GT, with 0-60 mph under 4 seconds (same horsepower and torque as the Performance Edition)
• First Edition, with a fixed panoramic glass roof, an extended range battery (98.8 kW, 270 miles per charge), 0-60 mph in the mid-5 second range, all wheel drive.
• Select (lowest price point), with a 75.7 kW battery and two drive choices:
  • RWD, 230 miles per charge, 0-60 mph in the low 6 second range, 190 kW (255 horsepower)
  • AWD, 210 miles per charge, 0-60 mph in the mid-5 second range, 190 kW (255 horsepower)
• Premium, with a two battery choices and two drive choices:
  • Standard battery (75.7 kWh)
    • RWD, 230 miles per charge, 0-60 mph in the low 6 second range, 190 kW (255 horsepower)
    • AWD, 210 miles per charge, 0-60 mph in the mid-5 second range, 190 kW (255 horsepower)
  • Extended Range Battery (98.8 kWh)
    • RWD, 300 miles per charge, 0-60 mph in the mid 6 second range, 210 kW (282 horsepower)
      AWD, 270 miles per charge, 0-60 mph in the mid-5 second range, 248 kW (332 horsepower)
• California RT.1, RWD, 300 miles per charge, 0-60 mph in the mid 6 second range, 210 kW (282 horsepower)

I loved seeing a traditional (i.e. internal combustion engine) American automobile manufacturer put on an event like this for an electric vehicle. It was very similar to the 2020 Stingray event mentioned before, or an Apple product introduction. I also liked seeing the emphasis placed on performance driving, rather than just economy or environmental benefits. This is how you’ll attract the majority of buyers. (see Tesla for proof of this)

I’ve been tied up with a new project (more info soon) and failed to mention Chevrolet introduced a new electric vehicle, destined exclusively for China. It’s called the Menlo. Here’s what it looks like:

I really like the looks of the Menlo, over the Mustang Mach-E although you may think I am biased on that… I heard about the Menlo, while working the Fort Worth Auto Show. What really interested me about the Menlo, is that, when I looked across the aisle at the Chevrolet display, I was stunned. The Menlo looked very familiar. It’s lines reminded me of the Chevy Blazer, which has been a huge hit for Chevrolet.

This made me dig into specs a little, primarily looking at wheelbase length, hoping that perhaps General Motors would use the Menlo as the starting point for a Blazer EV for the American market. What I discovered was this:

• Menlo wheelbase: 104.7″
• Blazer wheelbase: 112.7″
• Mustang Mach-E wheelbase: 117″

So, the Menlo will probably not morph into a Blazer EV, but I heard there’s a slightly smaller crossover coming before long, the Trailblazer. Hmmmmmm… Perhaps the upcoming L.A. Auto Show will shed light on this new Chevy. Please, let it be electric!