Ford continues to explore new ways to blend the strengths of electric and gas-powered vehicles, and now the Ford Explorer may be next in line for an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) powertrain. During a recent interview with Bloomberg Television, Ford CEO Jim Farley suggested that the Explorer could be a strong candidate for this innovative technology.

EREVs pair a larger battery pack with a gas-powered generator, allowing drivers to cover about 100 miles on electric power alone while still being able to take long trips of up to 700 miles using the gas backup. Farley noted that such a setup is especially promising for larger family vehicles like the Explorer, where range confidence is crucial.

This is the first time Farley has directly mentioned the possibility of a Ford Explorer EREV. The automaker has already confirmed that it plans to add hybrid or partial-electrification options to its entire Ford Blue lineup by 2030, with larger SUVs and trucks prioritized. In fact, Ford recently launched a Bronco EREV in China, though U.S. customers won’t likely see EREV options until at least 2027.

While the Explorer’s most recent refresh for the 2025 model year did not include a hybrid or EREV option, the shift seems inevitable given changing consumer demand and Ford’s evolving electrification strategy. With plans for fully electric three-row SUVs previously shelved, a Ford Explorer EREV could provide the perfect balance between efficiency, long-distance capability, and family practicality.