We already know from Farley's comments that a Bronco with exportable power (i.e. Pro Power Onboard) is coming. That means there will be a hybrid Bronco since that is a prerequisite for the larger Pro Power Onboard systems. The unknown is whether Ford will do the same for the Ranger (assuming it remains in the NA Ford lineup).
There's apparently a gas mustang SUV coming so imagine a mach-e with an ICE powertrain. A maverick based SUV is also coming apparently.
If they ever put the hybrid 2.5 in the bronco sport, that could be good for you as well. That powertrain is very reliable, and the interior of a BS is nicer than a maverick, still cheap feeling, but not terrible.
I not sure I would buy an Explorer again. Maybe the new model is better, but I had a ton of issues with the two that I owned.
Have you considered a Mach E? Seems to check all your boxes.
!50K miles is unacceptable, but that's all you're going to get from a new vehicle. I'd buy a 2010 vehicle and you'll probably get a total (last owner(s) plus you) of 250K to 300K. So far, I have. And independent garages can fix them more cheaply!
Still not ready to reveal the body styling which tells me this is more about attracting buyers from outside Ford.
Read into that what you will but it sounds like Ford doesn’t want critics and competitors getting a jump start
and then Ford playing defence all the way up to launch….
I would also note that the types of aircraft with fly-by-wire systems have mandatory scheduled maintenance and safety inspections done by trained personnel. Most automobiles are driven by people who can barely be bothered to keep gas in the tank…
I would say, though, that having been running EPAS for the last 15 years probably gives Ford a leg up on most when it comes to this idea.