As Ford grows its EV lineup, the affordability of electric cars continues to make them more accessible to the average person. The Puma EV is the latest addition.

Meet the Puma EV

The Ford Puma ranked #1 in sales across the automaker’s UK lineup in 2023, so creating an all-electric version of the popular subcompact SUV makes sense. With the affordability of electric cars continuing to rise, drivers across the United Kingdom are expressing interest.

The Current Ford Puma

Ford plans to retain many of the updated features found on the 2024 Puma. However, the automaker plans to add distinct stylistic elements to differentiate the EV from ICE versions of the SUV visually.

The current Ford Puma features a wraparound sports car-style cockpit loaded with modern tech, including a 12.8-inch digital display and a 12-inch infotainment screen. The subcompact SUV also features Ford’s SYNC 4 system, which has twice the computing power of previous iterations.

Unfortunately, the Puma has yet to hit American markets, so drivers in the US shouldn’t feel bad if they don’t recognize the name.

What to Expect From the Puma EV

In addition to new badging, the Puma “Gen-E” EV will feature redesigned headlights, grille, and front bumper to improve its efficiency and set it apart stylistically. The new EV, with a starting price of under $40k, will contribute to the growing trend of increased affordability of electric cars.

Experts expect that the new EV SUV’s base model will run on the same single 134-hp electric motor as the E-Transit Courier. Drivers should also get their pick of two powertrain upgrades, with dual 181 hp and 265 hp electric motors from the larger E-Transit powering these upgraded models.

The Puma EV’s anticipated 50 to 60 kWh battery will give it at least 250 miles of range.

Why Hasn’t Ford Released the Puma in the USA?

The Ford Puma is available only in the UK, Australia, and South Africa. As history buffs might already realize since Australia and South Africa were originally British colonies, all three of these countries drive on the left side of the road.

While switching the controls wouldn’t be too challenging, Ford has yet to announce plans to bring the Puma to US markets. Initially, the hatchback was a sporty coupe with styling similar to the Mercury Cougar and Ford Fiesta, both of which were sold in North America.

Ford discontinued the first-gen Puma in 2001 and revived the name for the current subcompact crossover, which launched in 2019.

Affordability of Electric Cars in North America

North American drivers have no reason to be upset that the Puma EV will not be available in the US. They have other options, including the popular Mustang Mach-E. With 264 to 480 hp beneath the hood and a 250 to 320 mi range, the Mach-E offers similar advantages.

Drivers who want to explore the affordability of electric cars can head to their local dealerships. They won’t find the Puma, but they will find other energy-efficient vehicles that fit their lifestyles in similar price ranges. The 2024 Mustang Mach-E starts at under $40,000.