The new Ford Puma stands out with its updated front design and new headlights, as well as the introduction of an electric version. Ford has chosen Gen-E as the name for this electric version. The Puma Gen-E model is expected to launch this year, aiming to compete with electric versions of Hyundai Kona, Opel Mokka e, Peugeot e-2008, and Fiat 600e.
Ford revealed the name in a press release about the improved Puma but did not disclose any further details about the electric version.
The electric vehicle is expected to share its powertrain with the Ford E-Tourneo Courier, a small passenger vehicle set to debut in 2024. Both Puma and Tourneo Courier are produced at Ford’s factory in Romania and share the same production platform.
The Ford E-Tourneo Courier features an electric motor with a power output of 134 horsepower and offers charging speeds of up to 100 kW. Although Ford has not disclosed the size of the battery, it has stated that the vehicle will charge from 10% to 80% in under 35 minutes, indicating a battery size of around 50 kWh.
The Puma Gen-E will be one of ten fully electric vehicles that Ford plans to launch in Europe this year. Other electric vehicles include electric versions of the Transit and Transit Custom, along with the compact SUV Explorer, which is based on the Volkswagen Group's MEB platform. Deliveries of the Explorer are set to begin this summer.
The updated Puma features Ford’s Sync4 infotainment system and a 12-inch touchscreen. The Puma Gen-E and Explorer will assist Ford in meeting European requirements for electric vehicle sales to account for 22% of total sales. These vehicles will also meet new strict carbon dioxide reduction targets and are set to be launched in Europe in 2025. The UK is Ford’s largest market in Europe.
Ford aims to make its entire passenger vehicle lineup in Europe fully electric by 2030, with its van lineup transitioning to electric by 2035.
Last year, Ford sold 21,651 fully electric passenger vehicles in Europe out of a total of 558,925 units, making it one of the lowest-selling electric vehicle manufacturers in Europe.
Ford also revealed an improved version of the Puma, equipped with more technology. The updated model features Ford’s new Sync4 infotainment system, with the touchscreen size increased from 8 inches to 12 inches. Apple Carplay and Android Auto applications now support wireless connection. The new Puma now includes lane-keeping assistance as part of the driver assistance package and a 360-degree camera system instead of a rearview camera.
Currently, the SUV is only sold with a 1.0-liter gasoline engine using a 48-volt mild hybrid system, which helps enhance fuel efficiency or performance. Ford has phased out the 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine. The ST model is still available but now comes with a 1-liter engine producing 168 horsepower and a dual-clutch transmission.
