The Ford Puma Gen-E: The UK’s Best-Selling Car Goes Electric
The UK’s best-selling car, the Ford Puma, has undergone a major transformation to become fully electrified, offering an impressive 234 miles of range for a price tag of under £30,000. This new electric version, known as the Puma Gen-E, joins Ford’s expanding electric car line-up which includes models like the Mustang Mach-E, Capri, and Explorer. Positioned to compete in the fast-growing electric crossover segment, the Gen-E will go head-to-head with rivals such as the Mini Aceman and Peugeot e-2008.
Visually, the Gen-E closely resembles its combustion engine counterpart, with subtle differences such as a redesigned front end inspired by the Mustang Mach-E and the absence of tailpipes. Ford’s aim with the Gen-E is not only to capitalize on the popularity of the ICE version but also to ease the transition to electric for current Puma owners, preventing them from switching to competitors in the market.
Beneath the surface, the Gen-E utilizes an adapted version of the combustion model’s B-car platform to accommodate a 43kWh floor-mounted battery. This slightly alters the dimensions of the vehicle, making it 5mm taller and 28mm longer than the ICE Puma. The lithium-ion battery delivers an impressive WLTP range of up to 234 miles in the standard Select model and 226 miles in the Premium trim. Fast-charging capabilities allow for a 10-80% charge in just 23 minutes at speeds of up to 100kW.
Compared to rivals like the Peugeot e-2008, the Puma Gen-E demonstrates superior efficiency with its smaller 43kWh battery pack while still achieving a commendable range. Powering both Gen-E trims is a front-mounted single motor, producing 166bhp and 214lb ft of torque. This setup enables the Gen-E to accelerate from 0-62mph in eight seconds and reach a top speed of 99mph.
One standout feature of the Gen-E is Ford’s new Gigabox, included as standard. This underfloor storage solution increases the boot space to a class-leading 523 litres with the seats up, surpassing rivals like the Aceman by 223 litres. Additionally, the Gen-E boasts a 43-litre front trunk for added convenience.
Inside the cabin, the Gen-E offers a familiar layout to the combustion Puma, featuring a 12.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.8-inch digital instrument display, and sporty seats for added comfort and style.
