Ford has adopted a marketing strategy for its electric vehicles that revolves around leveraging its most recognizable nameplates.
This began with the bold move of assigning the Mustang name to the Mach-E crossover. Next came the F-150 Lightning pickup, utilizing the best-selling nameplate in the U.S.
In Europe, Ford has also launched an electric Explorer and brought back the iconic Capri name.
Now, Ford has revealed the Puma Gen-E for the European market, an EV based on the gas-powered Puma subcompact crossover, currently Ford’s top-selling model on the Continent.
Staying true to the name of its sales leader, Ford has maintained the design of the Puma Gen-E closely aligned with its gas-powered counterpart.
It retains the same rounded shape and distinct bug-eyed headlights. However, the traditional trapezoidal grille has been replaced by an inverted U-shaped black trim, reflecting a design cue introduced with the Mustang Mach-E.
The Gen-E also features a rear spoiler and specialized wheel designs aimed at enhancing efficiency.Ford’s goal is to keep the Puma Gen-E affordable, making it the entry-level model in its EV lineup.
To achieve this, the Gen-E is equipped with a modest 43.0-kWh battery pack, delivering a maximum range of 234 miles. While this figure may seem low by American standards, it is well-suited to European markets where shorter commutes are more common.
Ford further highlights a maximum city driving range of 325 miles, making the Puma Gen-E ideal for urban use.
The inclusion of a one-pedal driving mode also enhances its utility in stop-and-go traffic.
Charging is efficient, with Ford stating the battery can recharge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 23 minutes using a fast charger.
However, performance remains modest; the 166-horsepower motor enables the Puma Gen-E to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 8.0 seconds.
Despite its unremarkable speed, the Puma Gen-E offers a practical and versatile interior. Its trunk boasts 20.3 cubic feet of space with the rear seats in place, an improvement over the gas-powered version.
Additionally, a 1.5-cubic-foot frunk is included, and the absence of a traditional transmission has allowed for a reimagined center console with enhanced storage capacity.
Inside the cabin, the layout is largely similar to the gas-powered Puma, featuring a robust steering wheel, a 12.0-inch center touchscreen, and a 12.8-inch digital gauge cluster.
The Gen-E is equipped with Ford’s Sync 4 infotainment system, which supports cloud-based navigation and wireless phone mirroring. The system also incorporates Alexa for voice-activated control, adding to its convenience.
Additional technological features include wireless phone charging and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane-centering capabilities.
Optional upgrades include a 360-degree surround-view camera and headlights that adjust to the curvature of the road ahead.
Deliveries are expected to begin in Europe by spring 2025, with pricing anticipated to start at the mid-$30,000 range.
While the Puma Gen-E is unlikely to be available in the U.S., it showcases a blend of practicality and cost-efficiency that Ford could carry forward in future EV models designed for the American market.