New Ford Puma Gen-E Joins the EV Party.

New Ford Puma Gen-E joins the EV party.

It has been a long time coming, but Ford has now entered the competitive electric vehicle market with the Puma Gen-E, transforming the big-selling small SUV into a fully-electric offering. Rather than reinventing the wheel, Ford has taken a conservative approach with the Puma Gen-E by maintaining the beloved Puma’s distinctive styling and adorable character, whilst making subtle modifications to signify its electric credentials.

Front “Shield” Fascia.

From a visual viewpoint, the exterior of the new Puma Gen-E looks very similar to its petrol counterpart. The exterior design captures the spirit of the latest-generation Puma, but the traditional front grille has been replaced with a sleeker, full-panel front “shield” fascia, giving a fresh face and taking inspiration from the Ford Mustang Mach-E electric SUV. A sporty rear spoiler and unique alloy wheel designs add to the electric vibe, and help the Puma Gen-E glide through the air more efficiently for even better performance. This evolutionary design approach was undertaken in order to ease existing Puma owners into the transition to EV ownership, without alienating Ford’s loyal customer base. Measuring in at 4.31 metres in length, 1.93 metres in width, and 1.55 metres in height, the Puma Gen-E finds itself in the increasingly popular middle ground between compact hatchback and small SUV.

Crisp & Modern Cabin.

Inside, the crisp and modern design continues with two high-definition display screens within easy reach of the driver so that they always feel in control. Ford’s latest-generation SYNC 4 infotainment system has cloud-connected navigation, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, meaning apps and information sync between smartphones and the car without using cables. The new, raised centre console provides convenient storage space, and the centre armrest slides fore and aft to enhance comfort on a long journey, while there is also a wireless charging pad so smartphones can be charged as you drive. A simplified electronic gear selector behind the steering wheel makes switching between drive, neutral and reverse as effortless as possible. The Puma Gen-E features regenerative braking, which recovers energy that would normally be lost as heat during conventional braking. When the driver lifts their foot off the accelerator or applies the brakes, the electric motor reverses its function and acts as a generator, converting the car’s kinetic energy into electricity, thereby increasing efficiency and range, while also reducing wear on the traditional friction brakes. Selectable one-pedal driving makes driving through city traffic even more convenient, and maximises energy efficiency too.

Ingenious ‘GigaBox’ Boot Storage.

The Puma Gen-E offers outstanding space efficiency thanks to the compact electric powertrain. The Puma’s innovative ‘MegaBox’ boot storage space has been enhanced to become ‘GigaBox’, meaning up to 574 litres of useful cargo space with the rear seats in place – more than some larger SUVs can offer. A 43 litre front trunk (frunk) makes good use of the space vacated by the petrol engine, and is the ideal space for storing the charging cables, so they can be retrieved even if the boot is full.

Single Battery Offering.

The Puma Gen-E comes with a Lithium-ion NMC battery with a usable capacity of 43kWh, and this sends power to the front-mounted electric motor with a power output of 168PS (165bhp) and 290Nm of instant torque. As a result, the Puma Gen-E can complete a 0-100km/h sprint in just 8.0 seconds, with its top speed electronically limited to 160km/h. The battery pack in the Gen-E can be charged from 10% to 80% at a compatible DC fast charging station in 23 minutes, and it comes with an official WLTP range of 345kms on a combined driving cycle. Energy consumption is officially rated at 14.5kWh/100km on a WLTP combined driving cycle, and I actually achieved this efficiency during my time with the car.

Two Trim Variants.

There are two trim variants available in the new Puma Gen-E: Select and Premium. Standard ‘Select’ equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, LED projector headlamps, LED daytime-running lights, auto high beam, rear privacy glass, unique aerodynamic bumpers and rear spoiler, multi-colour ambient lighting, 12-inch landscape touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Ford SYNC 4 with connected navigation, 6-speaker audio system, Ford PassConnect & Emergency Assist, wireless smartphone charging pad, and a power start button. The ‘Premium’ model comes with added equipment such as: 18-inch alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlamps with auto high beam, Power-folding door mirrors with puddle lamps with Puma logo projection, premium B&O audio with 10 speakers, keyless entry and a power tailgate.

Test Car.

My test car was a Puma Gen-E Premium, which was finished in Frozen White paint (a no-cost option), with Sensico/Neo Suede ebony upholstery with grey stitching. Out on the road, the Gen-E is smooth and refined, with minimal amounts of wind and tyre noise evident in the relatively-spacious cabin. The Gen-E delivers a driving experience that will feel familiar to current Ford drivers, whilst adding the instantaneous torque delivery characteristics of an EV. Ford has long been respected for creating cars with engaging driving dynamics, and the Puma Gen-E maintains this tradition. A well-judged steering set-up provides the driver with precise feedback, allowing them to confidently position the car through corners despite the additional weight of the battery pack. The Gen-E copes well with speed bumps and rutted road surfaces, absorbing minor imperfections with ease.  All in all, the new Puma Gen-E is a very worthwhile addition to Ford’s growing EV model line-up. By prioritising efficiency over outright battery size, Ford has created an EV that delivers competitive real-world range, while maintaining the impressive driving dynamics, practicality and versatility that made the original Puma such a popular choice with Irish drivers.

Pricing.

With pricing for the new Ford Puma Gen-E starting at just €32,916 and €35,718 for the Select and Premium variants respectively, it represents outstanding value for money. Prices quoted are inclusive of the current SEAI Grant & VRT Relief for private buyers. The Ford Puma Gen-E is available at Ford dealerships nationwide now.

Visit www.ford.ie for further information.