New models Puma goes electric: Ford presents the Gen-E variant

Ford's E-Puma impresses with a closed grille, a spacious Giga-box, and a fully digital cockpit. But is that enough to beat the competition in the E-segment?

Not too far removed from the combustion engine Puma is the future E-variant—at least visually. The front design has naturally been modified, with the grille closed in the Gen-E and design refinements made to improve aerodynamics. It looks familiar yet new, especially in the paint color called Electric Yellow. But the "Desert Island Blue" hue is also quite striking. Since the design of the Puma has already been an important purchasing reason, the E-version, available from 37,000 euros (38.894,40 USD), is likely to be well-received.

Inside, Gen-E drivers can expect a fully digital cockpit with a twelve-inch touchscreen and a 12.8-inch central instrument. Standard features include wireless smartphone charging and wireless connectivity to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Alexa is also included, along with cloud-based navigation and ambient lighting. The gear selector lever disappears from the center console, making way for a sliding armrest and additional storage space. The space available in the front and rear remains largely unchanged despite the battery in the vehicle floor, according to impressions from a first test sitting.

From Mega- to Giga-box

In the trunk, however, significant changes have taken place, and Ford has already invented the appropriate name change for it. Due to the elimination of the exhaust system under the vehicle floor, the previously impressive Mega-Box with a volume of 80 liters grows to 145 liters in the Gen-E and is aptly named Giga-Box. It is still washable and has a plug for water drainage. Together with the regular luggage compartment, the E-Puma offers a storage volume of a good 570 liters with full seating. Many full-sized station wagons can't compete with that.

But what about under the hood? Fortunately, Ford has found space for a 43-liter frunk with a lid, where charging cables and the like can be stored. Additionally, a 123 kW electric motor is powered by a 43-kWh battery. According to Ford, this should allow the Puma Gen-E with 17-inch wheels to travel up to 370 kilometers (approx. 230 miles) on a single charge, while the Gen-E Premium with standard 18-inch tires can go up to 360 kilometers (approx. 224 miles). Ford has not yet commented on the top speed.

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Powerful electric drive with impressive range

Ford specifies the consumption at a comparatively low 13 kWh/100 km (approx. 62 miles). The battery is said to charge from ten to 80 percent in about 23 minutes with a power of up to 100 kW. In other words, about 120 kilometers (approx. 75 miles) of additional driving range can be replenished in ten minutes. At wall boxes and other AC chargers, eleven kW flow through the line.

The base Puma Gen-E is equipped with traffic sign recognition, a reversing camera, and cross-traffic alert, among other things. The premium version (+ €2,500 or 2.628 USD) also includes a B&O sound system, matrix lighting, keyless entry, and electrically foldable rearview mirrors. The Puma Gen-E can be ordered now.