Ford Mustang Mach-E LFP Receives EPA-Estimated Range Figures

Ford recently started equipping base Mustang Mach-E Standard Range (SR) with Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries. Not only do these new packs offer enhanced range and durability, but they're also cheaper, which resulted in a price reduction for entry-level models. The EPA has now revealed efficiency and official range data for these new batteries, and the results are surprising.

Ford initially promised estimates of 250 miles (RWD) and 226 miles (AWD), and the company has delivered on that front. The EPA figures show the LFP-equipped model with 18-inch wheels can travel 250 miles on a single charge. The same SR model (also with 18-inch wheels) manages just 247 miles.

Interestingly, the LFP battery has 72 kWh of usable capacity, compared to the NCM with 70 kWh. The EPA is yet to release data for the LFP-powered Mustang Mach-E with AWD.

While the all-important range figure has increased, the LFP batteries are less efficient than their NCM counterparts. NCM-equipped models are rated at 110/96/103 MPGe on the city/highway/combined cycles, while the Mach-E SR with LFP batteries achieves 107/95/101 MPGe on the same cycles.

Customers are unlikely to be worried by this minimal reduction in efficiency, especially as the Mustang Mach-E SR now boasts slightly more range and, importantly, a smaller price tag. The Standard model costs $42,995 and $45,995 for the RWD and AWD variants, respectively. That doesn't include potential discounts and electric vehicle incentives, either.

It's worth noting that the Extended Range (ER) versions of the Mustang Mach-E will retain the NCM batteries. This 91 kWh pack has the energy density required to provide range figures of up to 312 miles.

But price and range aren't the only benefits associated with LFP batteries.

LFP batteries are not only cheaper to manufacture, but they are less prone to degradation as a result of high-rate charging. They also charge faster than their NCM counterparts and have a longer lifespan, which makes them more suitable for long-term ownership. In the case of the Mustang Mach-E SR, the vehicle also charges faster when plugged into a DC fast charger, with the 10-80% time reduced to just 33 minutes - a five-minute saving over the last model.

As with anything, there are downsides. LFP batteries are heavier than NCMs, which means they offer up less range in comparison to their size and weight. They're also known to struggle in colder climates, but thankfully, pre-heating cycles negate any potential issues associated with this. In the case of the Mustang Mach-E, we're guessing customers will be able to overlook these minor flaws, especially with all the benefits.