The adaptive cruise control in the Electric Mustang Mach-E is truly impressive. During my time with the vehicle, I found myself relying on it constantly for highway driving. The thumb switches on the steering wheel are intuitively designed and easy to operate, especially when adjusting the following distance from vehicles ahead. Combined with the convenience of one-pedal driving, the Mach-E proved to be surprisingly relaxing and effortless to drive in typical traffic conditions, solidifying its potential as an excellent commuter vehicle.
To further evaluate the Electric Mustang Mach-E’s capabilities, I decided to take a trip to our Exclusive Resorts homes in Tahoe. This 200-mile journey each way presented an ideal opportunity to assess the practicality of the existing charging network. Without access to charging facilities at home or at our Tahoe destination, this trip would be a genuine test of the electric Mustang’s real-world usability. While the Mach-E includes a Ford Mobile Charger compatible with a standard 120-volt outlet, its slow charging rate of approximately 3 miles per hour makes it impractical for this kind of trip. Therefore, relying on DC Fast Charging stations along the route would be essential.
Northern California boasts a well-developed and rapidly expanding charging infrastructure, particularly with networks like EVgo, Chargepoint, and Electrify America. Finding charging stations is generally straightforward, thanks to the FordPass App, which helps to alleviate concerns about range anxiety. The day before my trip, I visited an EVgo station at a local Whole Foods in Mill Valley. Although I encountered initial connection difficulties and needed to contact EVgo for assistance, they resolved the issue and provided a complimentary charge. Generally, the charging process is user-friendly. Utilizing the FordPass App or dedicated apps from providers like EVgo, Chargepoint, or Electrify America, you can easily locate nearby charging stations and check their availability.
In most cases, these charging points are conveniently situated in shopping centers or hotel parking areas. A typical 20 to 40-minute session at a DC fast charger can replenish the battery to around 60-80% capacity. It’s worth noting that charging speeds tend to decrease as the battery approaches 80%, and achieving a full charge can take a couple of hours. Consequently, longer road trips with the Electric Mustang Mach-E require a bit more pre-planning and patience. Allowing for 20-30 minute stops to top up the battery and coordinating breaks around charging locations is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
