Used Ford Mustang Mach-E long-term test: report 11

The car Ford Mustang Mach-E Standard Range RWD Run by Jim Holder, editorial director

Why it's here Ford’s first mainstream electric car needs to prove it can compete with the very best electric SUVs

Needs to Offer something more than its rivals – Ford is late to the electric party, so it's overdue a landmark EV

Miles covered 17,632 Price when new £42,530 Price when new with all options £42,530 Value on arrival £33,537 Value now £33,537 Test range 206 miles Official range 273 miles

29 November 2022 – A weight issue

Inevitably, thanks to substantial batteries, electric cars are heavy.

In my Ford Mustang Mach-E for example, around a quarter of its total, near two-tonne weight is accounted for by the battery cells that are loaded into it. And while they are mounted in the floor of the car in order to keep the weight as low as possible, there’s no denying the forces of physics that come into play as a result.

Ironically, one of the chief issues is that the weight needs lugging around, impeding efficiency. It’s a problem that faces makers of especially long-range electric cars, because by adding capability they are diminishing capability.

Of more relevance to a mid-range car like mine (it delivers 180-220 miles from a full charge on average, depending on the time of year) is the impact it has on handling. 

I don’t expect the last word in sports car thrills from a family SUV but despite the engineers’ best efforts, the Mustang’s heft ensures it is not a car that is ever likely to be driven for entertainment. Except, perhaps, in a straight-line acceleration test.

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