Key Points
The Ford Mustang Mach-E combines the iconic Mustang brand with electric vehicle technology, but still has some significant drawbacks for mainstream buyers including high cost, limited charging access, and extreme wait times.
While the Mach-E starts at $43,895, most well-equipped models end up costing between $50,000-$60,000. This prices it out of reach for average new car buyers.
Availability of public charging stations poses issues, especially for rural drivers and long trips. Range anxiety could be a constant concern.
Wait times for Mach-E orders are currently 6-12 months in many areas due to parts shortages and supply chain issues.
Alternatives like the gas-powered Mustang, F-150 Lightning, or Chevy Bolt provide more value and usability for average drivers.
Mustang Brand Power
The Mustang Mach-E cleverly taps into the equity of Ford‘s iconic Mustang muscle car. While technically an electric crossover SUV, the fastback silhouette and pony badge help attract buyers seeking both eco-friendly transportation and the image of driving a Mustang.
Over 55 years, the Mustang has become ingrained in American culture as an attainable vehicle that represents freedom, performance, and youthful fun. Ford hopes to translate some of that ethos to the new electrified Mach-E.
Steep Cost of Entry
While Ford positions the Mach-E as a mass market electric vehicle, its pricing tells a different story with most models exceeding $50,000.
The entry level Select trim starts at $43,895 before any options or delivery fees. However to get more usable range, most buyers will want the extended range battery which is a $5,000 upgrade adding around 30% more range. Other popular options like all-wheel drive and advanced driver assist systems will quickly raise the price over $50k.
Compare this to Ford‘s iconic gas-powered Mustang which starts under $28,000 or the electric Chevy Bolt with a $31,500 base price. The Mach-E ends up pricing out many mainstream or first-time EV buyers. Leasing could ease some of the bite, but purchasing still remains costly.
Charging Challenges for Rural Drivers
While charging networks are expanding, large gaps in coverage still remain, especially in rural areas. Many smaller towns lack fast charging options, meaning drivers face range anxiety when traveling further from urban centers.
Mach-E owners relying on home charging also require installation of higher voltage electrical outlets to enable reasonable 8-12 hour charge times. Renters and multi-unit dwellings often lack charge access as well.
These infrastructure gaps pose real hardships. For urban residents who seldom road trip or suburban homeowners able to install home chargers, the Mach-E delivers enough convenience. But rural drivers will still struggle with charging as a constant concern limiting usability.
Extreme Wait Times
Due to parts shortages and supply chain issues, Ford Mach-E customers now face extreme 6-12 month delivery timelines at many dealers.
This compares poorly to Ford‘s gas vehicles which are readily available within weeks in most areas of the country. EV leader Tesla also manages much quicker deliveries averaging 1-3 months based on production efficiency.
Facing the prospect of waiting up to a year for a $60,000 vehicle could deter enthusiasm among most mainstream consumers. The wait times reflect Kab normal production woes which should ease eventually. But for now, long lead times remain a major deterrent for Mustang Mach-E consideration.
Viable Alternatives Exist
While the Mustang Mach-E offers an alluring package for some EV buyers, viable alternatives exist – both within Ford‘s lineup and among competing automakers.
The gas-powered Ford Mustang provides 40% more horsepower plus iconic styling starting under $28,000. Ford‘s own F-150 Lightning pickup also taps into American tastes with an affordable electric truck priced from $41,769.
Outside Ford, the Chevy Bolt and Nissan Leaf start around $32,000 while boasting comparable range. German luxury EVs like the Audi e-tron and Porsche Taycan admittedly carry even higher costs but deliver prestige badges and longer range.
For most buyers without money to burn, the appeal of the Mustang Mach-E quickly fades once they consider more affordable and available options that fit their needs. The initial hype of the Mach-E made it a hot commodity, but realities of cost, charge access, and production delays make it a questionable choice for average consumers today.
