The adaptive cruise control on the Ford Mustang Mach-e is exceptional, becoming a constant companion during highway drives. Its intuitive thumb switches on the steering wheel made adjusting and resetting the distance from leading vehicles effortless. Combined with the convenience of one-pedal driving, the Mach-E transformed into a surprisingly relaxing and easy car to navigate through traffic. It’s clear this electric SUV would excel as a fantastic daily commuter.
To truly test the practicality of the charging network, a week with the Ford Mustang Mach-E included a journey to Exclusive Resorts homes in Tahoe. This round trip of 200 miles each way presented a perfect opportunity to evaluate the accessibility of charging, especially without home or destination charging facilities. While the Mach-E includes a portable Ford Mobile Charger compatible with standard 120-volt outlets, its slow charging rate of approximately 3 miles per hour meant relying on DC Fast Charging stations along the route was essential for a timely trip.
Alt text: Interior view of a Ford Mustang Mach-E showcasing the user-friendly dashboard and steering wheel controls, highlighting the adaptive cruise control button.
Fortunately, Northern California boasts a rapidly expanding and well-established charging infrastructure, particularly with providers like EVgo, Chargepoint, and Electrify America. Finding these charging stations is made simple with the FordPass App, effectively minimizing any concerns about range anxiety. Prior to the Tahoe trip, a stop at an EVgo station at a local Whole Foods in Mill Valley provided a valuable learning experience. Despite an initial connection issue requiring a quick call to EVgo support which resulted in a complimentary charge, the overall charging process proved to be straightforward.
Alt text: Ford Mustang Mach-E parked at a public EV charging station, plugged in and charging, illustrating the ease of access to charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
Navigating the charging process is user-friendly; utilizing either the FordPass App or dedicated apps from providers like EVgo, Chargepoint, and Electrify America guides drivers to the nearest available charging points. These apps provide real-time information on charger availability and operational status, often conveniently located at shopping centers or hotel parking areas. A typical 20 to 40-minute session at a DC fast charger can replenish the battery to approximately 60-80% capacity. It’s worth noting that charging speeds decrease as the battery approaches full capacity, with a complete charge potentially requiring a couple of hours. Therefore, longer road trips in the Ford Mustang Mach-E necessitate a bit more pre-planning and the patience to accommodate 20-30 minute stops for battery top-ups, effectively coordinating breaks with charging needs.
Alt text: Ford Mustang Mach-E driving on a highway, emphasizing its suitability for long journeys and road trips, showcasing its modern design and road presence.
