Ford Explorer EV vs Tesla Model 3 Long Range: Which EV is better?
Head-to-head: Ford Explorer EV vs Tesla Model 3 Long Range. Compare real range, efficiency, charging time, price, rating and running costs to find the best electric vehicle for you in 2026.
Our verdict
Tesla Model 3 Long Range wins this head-to-head
It wins 6 of 8 categories compared below, with a margin of 5 category wins.
The numbers that matter
Real, comparable stats from our database. The green value wins each category.
| Specification | Explorer EV | Model 3 Long Range |
|---|---|---|
| Range Model 3 Long Range wins | 530 km | 549 km |
| Battery Model 3 Long Range wins | 79 kWh | 82 kWh |
| Efficiency Model 3 Long Range wins | 16.6 kWh/100km | 14.9 kWh/100km |
| 0-100 km/h Model 3 Long Range wins | 6.1 s | 4.2 s |
| Fast charge 10-80% Model 3 Long Range wins | ~26 min | ~22 min |
| Seats tie | 5 | 5 |
| Price Explorer EV wins | $44,000 | $44,990 |
| Rating Model 3 Long Range wins | 4.3 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 |
| Est. running cost / yr | $374/yr | $335/yr |
View the full specification sheet
| Specification | Explorer EV | Model 3 Long Range |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | 79 kWh | 82 kWh |
| Range | 530 km (WLTP) | 341 mi (EPA) |
| Top speed | 180 km/h | 145 mph |
| Power | RWD · 282 hp | AWD · 423 hp |
| 0-100 km/h | 6.1 s | — |
| Charging (10-80%) | ~26 min (185kW) | ~22 min |
| Drive | RWD | Dual motor AWD |
| Efficiency | 16.6 kWh/100 km | — |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 450 L | — |
| 0-60 mph | — | 4.2 s |
Ford Explorer EV
Pros
- Long range
- Fast charging
- Practical cabin
- Ford character
Cons
- Europe-only at launch
- No AWD on base
- Cheap-feeling trim in places
- VW platform quirks
Tesla Model 3 Long Range
Pros
- Long real-world range
- Best fast-charging network
- Frequent software updates
- Low long-term running costs
Cons
- Minimalist interior is not for everyone
- No physical buttons
- Build quality varies
- Insurance can be pricey
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tesla Model 3 Long Range really better than Ford Explorer EV?
Our verdict is based on real specs: range, battery, efficiency, acceleration, charging speed, seats, price and rating. The winner wins the majority of those categories, but the right choice depends on your budget, driving style and priorities.
Which has more range, Ford Explorer EV or Tesla Model 3 Long Range?
530 km vs 549 km respectively, before factoring in weather and driving conditions.
Which is cheaper to run?
Based on official efficiency and a typical $0.15/kWh tariff at 15,000 km per year, running costs are estimated at $374/yr for the Ford Explorer EV and $335/yr for the Tesla Model 3 Long Range.
Should I compare more models?
Yes - add both models to our interactive comparator to see every spec side by side, or use the Which EV quiz to find more models that fit your budget and lifestyle.
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Not sure which one is right for you?
Add these models to our interactive comparator and compare every spec side by side, or take the quiz to find even more matches.