Ford's decision to revive the Capri name for its new electric crossover is a perplexing blend of nostalgia and modernity. The original Capri, celebrated for its sleek fastback coupe design, was Europe’s answer to the Ford Mustang and enjoyed a successful production run from 1969 to 1989. However, the new Capri, which embraces a four-door crossover form, suggests Ford has lost touch with what made the Capri an icon in the first place.

The New Ford Capri: A Modern EV Crossover

The upcoming Capri EV diverges drastically from its predecessor. Rather than a fastback coupe, the new Capri adopts a four-door crossover form with a low-slung roofline, falling in line with the current trend of "coupe" SUVs. Sharing its platform and powertrain with the electric Ford Explorer based on VW’s ID.4, the new Capri's specifications include:

- Power Output: Up to 330 horsepower.
- Battery Pack: 77-kWh capacity.
- Range: Approximately 374 miles.
- Charging Speed: Supports up to 170 kW.

Design Philosophy: Missing the Mark

Ford’s approach to the Capri's design emphasizes moving forward rather than looking back. Amko Leenarts, Ford's Chief Designer for the European market, has stated that "retro designs aren’t moving us forward," advocating for a "totally new interpretation." However, this philosophy seems to have missed the mark, as the Capri EV's contemporary crossover silhouette starkly contrasts with the original’s iconic coupe profile, alienating long-time fans of the classic design.

Market Positioning and Strategic Goals

The Capri EV's design and engineering reflect Ford's broader strategic goals:

1. Electrification Commitment: Utilizing VW’s MEB platform, Ford demonstrates its commitment to EV development, but at what cost to its legacy?
 
2. European Market Focus: Tailoring the Capri EV for European markets and producing it at Ford’s Cologne Electric Vehicle Center in Germany underscores Ford's strategic focus on Europe, where EV adoption is accelerating.
 
3. Brand Heritage vs. Innovation: Reviving the Capri name signifies Ford's attempt to balance heritage with innovation, but the execution leaves much to be desired.

Community and Market Reactions

The reaction to the Capri EV's design has been overwhelmingly negative among enthusiasts who cherished the original model's sporty, low-slung coupe design. Critics argue that the new crossover form factor deviates too far from the classic Capri, diluting its heritage. While Ford aims to attract a broader audience, it seems to have alienated the core fan base that valued the Capri’s distinct identity.

Conclusion: Ford Has Ruined an Icon

Ford’s revival of the Capri nameplate as an electric crossover represents a misguided attempt to blend nostalgia with innovation. Rather than honoring the Capri's legacy, this new model undermines it, trading a beloved classic’s sporty charm for a generic, market-driven design. In trying to stay relevant, Ford has unfortunately lost sight of what made the Capri an icon, disappointing long-time fans and tarnishing the nameplate’s storied history.

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