• Sat. Jun 15th, 2024

TREAD MEDIA

TESTED: TREK E-CALIBER 9.6

trek ebikes south africa

eBikes are coming thick and fast now. It was inevitable really. The cycling industry needs to keep progressing as new technology becomes available. When we first saw the Trek E-Caliber we were reminded of how impressed we were with the Supercaliber a couple of years back. But we did wonder exactly who in South Africa would buy a 60mm travel e-mountain bike. Well, after test-riding it, we now know…

Trek is one of the world’s biggest performance bike brands. It doesn’t just settle on one suspension design and try make that work across all its full-suspension models. No, it invests in R&D to create completely new designs for each mountain bike category. Therefore, the launch of the Supercaliber in 2019 wasn’t surprising.

trek ebikes south africa

Trek wanted to make a bike that was perfectly suited to its pro XCO racing team, which comprises a number of high-profile females. At the time, female XCO racers would opt for a hardtail on courses with a lot of climbing, sacrificing the control that a rear shock offers in favour of less weight. The Supercaliber made it possible to ride the same bike on all courses and you have to give them props because it appears to have given its riders an edge.

Jolanda Neff won the Olympic Games title in Tokyo in 2021 and Evie Richards won the 2021 XCO World Champs title – both on the Supercaliber. What a feather in the cap for the Trek design team! And it’s not only the women racing the Supercaliber to success, Vlad Dascalu has achieved seven XCO World Cup podiums on his Supercaliber since 2021.

trek ebikes south africa

So the Supercaliber has Trek’s proprietary IsoStrut rear shock that’s only really visible from below. It’s neatly – actually beautifully – integrated into the toptube and, combined with slim seatstays, eliminates the need for a rear pivot to give 60mm of travel. This is all present on the E-Caliber 9.6, which makes the bike reasonably light for an eBike – 18.5kg to be more specific. It’s also a full carbon frame.  The 9.6 is the bottom of the E-Caliber range. The top-of-the-range 9.9 XX1 AXS weighs in at 15.7kg, which makes it one of the lightest performance full-suspension eBikes there is.

Let’s talk about the full-suspension. Most eBikes in South Africa come with mid-travel suspension. That’s 120-150mm of travel. These are bikes designed for trail riding or trail shredding. There’s no real rush to climb but there’s a high level of importance on the bike’s ability to consume moderately gnarly or even fully gnarly descending trails and flow lines.

The E-Caliber is a short-travel full-suspension eBike that basically has very little in the way of competition, especially in South Africa. There’s 60mm of travel at the rear and 120mm of travel up front, which is ample for most South African mountain bikers.

trek ebikes south africa

FOUR KEY FEATURES AND OUR OPINION

Drive system.

The Trek E-Caliber uses a Fazua Ride Trail 50 drive system (250Wh battery and 450W motor with 55nM of torque) that can assist up to 32kph when it’s on. When it’s off, it claims there’s zero drag. It’s compatible with a smartphone app that allows you to customise your ride and see battery level useage. The software system is called Black Pepper, which allows the motor to respond immediately as you start to pedal, delivers more power over a wider cadence range and lets you customise your user settings.

OUR OPINION

The E-Caliber most certainly does reach 32kph of assistance. This is essential on this kind of eBike, as most cruising speeds on flat gravel roads are around the high-20/low-30kph region. And we can see this type of eBike (short-travel) becoming popular in the future as more ultra-endurance events open up entries to eBikes. We didn’t download the app, so can’t comment on that, but from our research, it appears to be accurate and effective.

trek ebikes south africa

The motor is one of the quieter eBike motors we have experienced and it really does engage immediately, no momentary lag like we have experienced on some other eBikes.

There are three power modes – Breeze, River and Rocket. Breezes delivers a constant 100 Watts of support, while River provides progressive assistance up to 220W, which is linked to how much effort you are putting in. And Rocket adds 250 Watts regardless of rider input (you still have to pedal obviously). What’s noticeable is that the assist doesn’t need to you to be at 80rpm to really kick in, it kicks in at lower and higher cadences, which is particularly beneficial on technical, steep climbs.

trek ebikes south africa

While the modes all worked as claimed, the controls are essentially just sensors and not buttons as with most eBikes. This took some time to get used to and we were inadvertently scrolling through modes because it really is quite a sensitive system. To be honest, we never fully adjusted to this. While very sleek and clever, we prefer a more tactile control set-up.

We never got to really test the range of the battery, but Trek claims that with an assumed rider input of 200 watts, the range of the system is up to 70km with 1200m of climbing in Breeze Mode and 60km with 1000m of climbing in River Mode. The five tiny lights on the power control unit light up when you’re at full battery and gradually extinguish as it uses charge, so there is a visual approximate-charge-remaining indicator.

trek ebikes south africa

REMOVEABLE DRIVE PACK

You can completely remove the 2.9kg drive pack (battery and motor) and ride the E-Caliber as a normal mountain bike. It comes with a separate downtube replacement cylinder that you replace the drive pack unit with.

Initially we thought this was stupid. Why would you buy an eBike and then remove the very thing that makes it an eBike? But once we rode the E-Caliber without the battery unit, we realised that it really does ride and feel just like a regular bike! Yes, it’s a little weighty compared to a sub-11-kg Supercaliber (the gearing unit stays in the bike), but it’s not much heavier than many regular mountain bikes and it handles just like a regular bike. You’re essentially buying two bikes in one, which is actually pretty smart… We also rode the E-Caliber with the battery pack, but switched off and can confirm that there really is no drag whatsoever. So even if you do get your battery range judgement a bit wrong, it’s not that at all difficult to pedal home without power.

trek ebikes south africa

ISOSTRUT SUSPENSION

The IsoStrut suspension, is identical to that found on the Supercaliber. It’s removes a lot of weight from the bike because it doesn’t require the more standard pivots and linkage. It’s designed to climb faster than a full-suspension bike and descend faster than a hardtail.

At first we wondered why really bother with 60mm of rear travel on an eBike. But then almost all of the eBikes we have ridden have been mid-travel trail bikes, which you tend to ride on hilly or even mountainous routes because they’re designed to climb steadily and descend masterfully. Riding the E-Caliber on some steep trails as well as some rolling and even flatter trails made us realise that the amount of travel is actually not inadequate for most South African mountain bikers. Bear in mind that while the trail-riding and Enduro-racing market is growing fast, it’s nowhere near the size of the half-marathon/marathon/ultra-marathon segment, most of whom are more interested in fast climbing and steady descending.

trek ebikes south africa

The 120mm of travel up front is 20mm more than you get on the acoustic Supercaliber and we found it to be enough for most obstacles and terrain where you’re going to be riding a 60mm-travel rear shock. The bike has dual-remote lockout, which allows you to simultaneously lock and open the front and rear suspension. We only used this on tar getting to and from the trails and never felt the need to use on any trails. At 67.5 degrees, the headtube angle is a little slacker than the Supercaliber’s 69 degrees and has 10-15mm longer reach (depending on model), which all contributes to the bike’s descending confidence.

trek ebikes south africa

Bontrager’s Kovee Comp is the aluminium wheelset, wrapped in Bontrager XR3 29×2.4 tyres. The drivetrain comprises eThirteen crankset, Shimano XT 1×12 rear derailleur and Shimano Deore shifter and chain. The brakeset is Shimano hydraulic disc with a 203mm rotor up front and a 180mm rotor at the rear. There’s a 130mm-travel TranzX dropper seatpost (100mm on the Small).

The one thing we missed dearly when we test-rode the Supercaliber was a dropper seatpost, so the fact that the E-Caliber comes with one, was a real relief for our testers. This bike truly shines on XCO-type trails and we found ourselves using the dropper regularly on steep descents and tight turns.

trek ebikes south africa

We were surprised to see such large brake rotors specced on a short-travel bike. But then it is an eBike, so what might be the norm on acoustic bikes, due to weight concerns, doesn’t really apply. They do really add stopping power and we appreciated that.

The tyres are 2.4-inches wide, but they looked and felt narrower, likely due to the narrowish 23mm rims. We only took the bike on actual mountain bike trails – mostly singletrack – so did feel it was a little under-gripped at speed when zipping through turns. Having ridden a range of Bontrager tyres, we do know that’s not a brand issue, but a model issue. The XR3 is fine for the rear, but we’d prefer a XR5 Team Issue 2.5-inch tyre on the front.

We had a few questions when we received the E-Caliber for testing. But, as has been revealed here, those questions were all answered once we started riding the bike. In a market packed with mid-travel eBikes, the E-Caliber stands out as a full-sus eBike for the masses, or at least the majority. A bike that’s a capable allrounder, offers refined power delivery and is highly competent on most South African trails. It makes you want to tackle everything with some aggression – climbs, corners, descents and moderate-sized obstacles – but is also quite content to cruise at a moderate pace for those who aren’t highly skilled.

PRICE: R120000

MORE INFO: Full specs, features and tech details here .

trek ebikes south africa

By TREAD MEDIA

Related post, video: greg minnaar – not done yet, mountain bike events: there are now gaps between the clouds, top racers set for showdown at summerplace gravity festival, duncan claims kzn downhill title at karkloof classic.

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Gear Change Bicycle Store, Our advanced bike fit studio, 24-hour turn around workshop and store are all designed to get any cyclist ready for race day, smashing PBs. Best Bicycle Shop

Electric bikes will change your life

Same trails, whole new world.

Electric mountain bikes are everything you already love about trail riding, but more of it. More speed. More power. More distance. More terrain. But Rail’s even more than that – it’s an electric mountain bike that gives you a more engaging relationship with the trail.

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GET BACK IN THE SADDLE

Haven’t ridden in a while? The smooth, powerful boost helps you get out for exercise, enjoy the outdoors and feel that kid-like freedom you only get while riding a bike.

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Fly up hills and tough terrain

Whether you’re on pavement or dirt, the extra power helps you make short work of any climb, leaving you with more energy to enjoy the ride.

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SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR CAR

Take on longer commutes, carry more groceries and pedal across town quickly. All while getting exercise, enjoying the fresh air and avoiding traffic jams!

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DISCOVER MORE POSSIBILITIES

Go ahead. Take the hard route home or explore that road or trail you’ve never ridden before. E-bikes amplify your ability to go further and faster than ever before.

How to know when it’s time to buy an e-bike

A little extra boost can lead to incredible possibilities. When you ride an electric bike, there’s no ride too long, no load too heavy and no place your legs can’t carry you. Ditch the daily traffic jam, get more exercise and feel great about treading more lightly on the planet. And best of all – have a ton of fun along the way.

Gear Change stock the full range of in-stock   Trek’s Electric Bike Collection.   Whether you looking for a performance Road Bike to give you that extra advantage on race day or some extra vuma up those hills on the mountain; We have the best E-bike for you.

Browse our range of   Trek Electric MTB and Road bikes   and find the perfect bike to amplify the fun and give you the power you need. We guarantee it’s worth every single cent.

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2024 Trek Rail 9.8 XT Gen 4

The Rail 9.8 is a long-travel carbon e-MTB that rips like our beefiest trail rigs and powers you right back up the mountain. You get upgraded everything, including the frame for maximum fun on the gnarliest runs. You also get Bosch’s latest tech with the smart system Performance Line CX that has a longer-range 750 Wh battery and cool features that take your ride to the next level like activity tracking, navigation and Bluetooth connectivity. The new System Controller sits almost flush for a sleek look and Mini Remote is discreet and intuitive.

It's right for you if... You’re looking for a long-travel carbon e-MTB with high-performance parts and a lot of battery power. You crave the responsiveness of carbon, the stability of a longer reach, the plush feel of high-end suspension and want the very latest from Bosch. The tech you get An upgraded OCLV Mountain Carbon frame with longer reach and oversized head tube and seat tube for maximum strength. An extra-long-range 750 Wh battery, a super responsive RockShox ZEB Select+ fork and RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate Thru Shaft shock with a Shimano XT 1x12 drivetrain. You get the latest from Bosch with smart system Performance Line CX, including the new Mini Remote and Bluetooth® System Controller display that’s integrated into the top tube. The final word This bike features across-the-board upgrades that make it a serious ripper – especially the suspension package. It's built for hammering gnarly descents, then flying right back up again thanks to the powerful Bosch motor, 750 Wh battery and parts that can keep up with all that rowdy riding. Why you'll love it The Carbon Rail Gen 4 has the same enduro-inspired geometry and huge battery as the previous generation, but now it has a pocket in the top tube that makes Gen 4 compatible with Bosch’s integrated System Controller and Mini Remote. The System Controller shows your currently-selected assist level and remaining battery level. It’s neatly integrated into the top tube for maximum protection and a sleek look. Bosch's smart system gives you all the same power and responsiveness with a new discrete Mini Remote that's streamlined with just the controls you need at your fingertips to toggle through assist levels or change to walk mode. Intelligent eMTB and eMTB Lite modes adjust the assist automatically based on your input to give you just the right amount of power for your ride. The new frame is extra stout with a 34.9 mm seat tube to accommodate more robust dropper posts, and an oversized head tube that works with burly e-MTB-optimised forks for less flex and more precise steering.

*Please note – spec applies to all sizes unless listed separately Frameset Frame OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame, 1.8'' lower head tube, Bosch System Controller-compatible, Removable Integrated Battery (RIB), Knock Block 2.0, guided internal routing, 34.9 mm seat tube, magnesium rocker link, Motor Armour, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, 12 mm thru-axle, 150 mm travel Fork RockShox ZEB Select+, DebonAir spring, Charger 3 RC2 damper, 1.8" oversized tapered steerer, eMTB optimised crown, 44 mm offset, Boost110, 15 mm Maxle Stealth, 160 mm travel Shock RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ RT, 230 mm x 57.5 mm Max compatible fork travel 170mm (580mm axle-to-crown) Wheels Wheel front Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle, 29" Wheel rear Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, Rapid Drive 108, 6-bolt, Boost148, 12 mm thru axle, 29" Skewer rear Bontrager Switch thru-axle, removable lever *Tyre Size: S, M, L, XL Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.50" Size: S, M, L, XL Bontrager SE6 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.50" Tyre part Bontrager TLR sealant, 180 ml/6 oz Rim strip Bontrager TLR Max tyre size Frame: 29x2.60", Fork: See manufacturer E-system *Battery Size: S Bosch PowerTube 625Wh, smart system Size: M, L, XL Bosch PowerTube 750Wh, smart system Charger Bosch standard 4A, 110 V, smart system *Controller Size: S, M, L, XL Bosch System Controller BRC3100, smart system Size: S, M, L, XL Bosch Mini Remote BRC3300, smart system, 22.2 mm Motor Bosch Performance Line CX, smart system, magnesium motor body, 85 Nm Drivetrain Shifter Shimano XT M8100, 12-speed Rear derailleur Shimano XT M8100, long cage Cassette Shimano XT M8100, 10-51, 12-speed Chain Shimano XT M8100, 12-speed Pedal VP-536 nylon platform Max. chainring size 1x: 34T Components Saddle Bontrager Arvada, austenite rails, 138 mm width *Seatpost Size: S Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 100 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 345 mm length Size: M Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 150 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 440 mm length Size: L Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 170 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 485 mm length Size: XL Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 200 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 550 mm length Handlebar Bontrager Line Pro, OCLV Carbon, 35 mm, 27.5 mm rise, 780 mm width Grips Bontrager XR Trail Elite, nylon lock-on Stem Bontrager Line Pro, 35 mm, Blendr-compatible, 0-degree, 45 mm length Brake Shimano XT M8120 4-piston hydraulic disc Rotor size Max brake rotor sizes - Frame: 200mm, Fork: see fork manufacturer Weight Weight M - 23.50 kg / 51.81 lbs (with TLR sealant, no tubes) Weight limit This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider and cargo) of 136 kg (300 lb). We reserve the right to make changes to the product information contained on this site at any time without notice, including with respect to equipment, specifications, models, colours, materials and pricing. Due to supply chain issues, compatible parts may be substituted at any time without notice. Bike and frame weights are based on pre-production painted frames at time of publication. Weights may vary in final production.

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e-Bikes are a way to enhance your cycles providing additional power in all the circumstances you need it. These bicycles feature battery-powered assistance that kicks in when you pedal and can be adjusted to provide whatever level of power you need for your ride. This will engage when you power down on the pedals, giving you a boost that allows you to traverse hills and travel over rougher terrain without exhaustion.

Whether you want to explore the mountains in a new way, streamline your daily commute, or change up your road trips, e-bikes are a great idea. Bike Addict has always been at the vanguard when it comes to the South African cycling scene. Our many years’ experience has come in very handy in terms of staying on top of the latest trends. We have always made sure our customers have access to the newest ways to ride.

Electrical bicycles have enjoyed a surge in popularity recently and we have a range of quality brands available at our store. This list includes bikes by all the industry’s heavy hitters like Avalanche, Cannondale, Scott, Titan, Bianchi, and Merida. There is something for every budget here, and we are also happy to talk about trade-ins, trade-ups, and financing. Chat to us about our on-site maintenance services as well.

We are proud to offer an e-bike for all kinds of terrain and will almost certainly have the one designed to meet your requirements. e-bikes are the perfect choice for you if you’re struggling to keep up with your peers in your riding group and can make tackling more challenging courses a little easier. As you work at enhancing your fitness, they cover the slack which is why they are also a good choice if you’re struggling with an injury.

Browse our catalogue today and feel free to reach out to one of the Bike Addict experts if you have any questions or queries. We’re always happy to help.

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E-Bikes , Solomons Cycles News

The electric revolution: e-bikes in south africa.

E-Bikes

Introduction

Electric bikes are gaining ground in South Africa, marking a significant shift in the way people commute, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors. As the country embraces this electric revolution, it's crucial to weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks. This article delves deep into the pros and cons of e-bikes in South Africa, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of their impact on both individuals and the broader community.

E-Bikes in South Africa

The concept of e-bikes is straightforward: they are bicycles equipped with an electric motor that assists with pedaling, making it easier to cover longer distances and climb hills without excessive physical strain. In South Africa, with its varied terrain and bustling urban centers, e-bikes offer a promising alternative to traditional transportation methods.

Eco-Friendly Transportation

E-bikes stand out as a green transportation solution. They emit no pollutants, reducing the carbon footprint compared to cars and motorcycles. In South Africa, where environmental conservation is a growing concern, the adoption of e-bikes can contribute significantly to cleaner cities and rural areas.

Health and Fitness Benefits of E-Bikes

Despite the electric assist, riding an e-bike still provides a good workout. It's an excellent way for South Africans to stay fit, improve cardiovascular health, and enjoy the outdoors, all while commuting or exploring.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

They are leveling the playing field, making cycling accessible to a broader range of people, including those who may be deterred by physical limitations or the daunting hills of the South African landscape.

Cost-Effective

In the long run, e-bikes are a cost-effective transportation option. They require less maintenance than cars and motorcycles, and the cost of charging the battery is minimal compared to fuel prices.

Traffic and Congestion Reduction

E-bikes can alleviate traffic congestion in urban areas, a significant concern in many South African cities. They are nimble and can bypass traffic jams, leading to more efficient and stress-free commutes.

Disadvantages of E-Bikes

Initial cost e-bikes.

The upfront cost of purchasing an e-bike can be high, making it a significant investment for many South Africans. While prices are gradually decreasing, the initial expense remains a barrier for some.

Maintenance and Repair for E-Bikes

While generally low, the maintenance and repair of bikes can be more complex than traditional bicycles due to their electrical components. Finding skilled technicians outside urban centers can be challenging.

Battery Life and Range

The dependence on battery life can limit the range of e-bikes, especially in rural or remote areas of South Africa where charging stations may be scarce. Long-distance travel requires careful planning to avoid running out of power.

Safety Concerns

The increased speed and weight of the bike raise safety concerns, especially in areas with high traffic or inadequate cycling infrastructure. Riders need to be vigilant and well-versed in road safety rules.

High value makes them a target for theft, necessitating secure storage solutions and potentially higher insurance costs for owners in South Africa.

E-Bikes and South African Society

E-bikes have the potential to transform transportation in South Africa, offering an eco-friendly, efficient, and inclusive way to travel. However, maximizing their benefits while mitigating drawbacks requires strategic planning, investment in cycling infrastructure, and public awareness campaigns.

  • E-bikes have a rechargeable battery and electric motor to assist in pedaling, simplifying uphill rides and long distances.
  • E-bikes in South Africa must adhere to speed and power limits to be classified as bicycles.
  • Many e-bikes are designed for off-road use, offering an exciting way to explore South Africa's diverse landscapes. However, riders should check local regulations and trail restrictions.
  • No, you don't need a license to ride an e-bike if it meets the legal definition of a bicycle in terms of motor power and maximum speed.
  • The range of an e-bike can vary widely depending on the model, terrain, and level of pedal assist used, but many models can travel between 25 to 100 kilometers on a single charge.

E-bikes in South Africa offer a promising avenue toward sustainable transportation, health and wellness, and social inclusivity. While the initial costs and infrastructure needs present challenges, the long-term benefits of integrating these bikes into South African life are undeniable. As the country continues to navigate its path towards modernization and environmental stewardship, e-bikes stand out as a beacon of progress, offering a cleaner, healthier, and more connected future for all South Africans.

Consider exploring local South African e-bike retailers for specific models and pricing information. For comprehensive safety guidelines and best practices, visit international cycling organizations that offer resources on e-bike usage.

Discover your perfect ride in our exclusive E-Bike collection! Visit our website now to explore a range of electric bicycles designed for every adventurer. Click here to find your next journey companion.

More Links: Read more about E-Bikes on Wikipedia.

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Ford is revealing a new electric sports crossover next week, here’s what to expect

Avatar for Peter Johnson

Ford will unveil a new all-electric “sports crossover” next week. The new Ford EV crossover will be built on Volkswagen’s MEB platform, following the Electric Explorer. Here’s what to expect from the new model.

After the first all-electric Explorer rolled off the assembly line at its new Cologne EV plant in Germany this week, Ford is already planning to unveil another EV.

Ford said a second EV will be “revealed shortly,” with production scheduled to begin later this year. The new EV, described as a “sports crossover,” is part of a 2020 deal with VW to use its MEB platform, the same underpinning its ID series.

Although Ford initially said it would introduce an EV as a follow-up to the Mustang Mach-E, which ended up being the electric Explorer, we later learned a second model was planned.

Although Ford has yet to confirm it, media reports suggest it will called the Capri. Ford’s Capri was a hit after it launched in 1969, with over 400,000 models sold in its first two years. By 1974, there were 1.2 million Ford Capri drivers.

Ford-new-EV-crossover

Ford to unveil its new EV sports crossover, the Capri

The iconic fastback coupe is poised to return as an all-electric sports crossover based on VW’s MEB platform.

According to Automotive News , Ford will unveil the new Capri EV sports crossover on July 10, 2024.

Ford-new-EV-crossover

After it was spotted testing last year, the Capri EV appears much like many MEB-based vehicles with a long wheelbase and wide stance. You can see a resemblance to the Cupra Tavascan , another electric SUV based on VW’s MEB platform.

As the report notes, the Capri and Explorer EVs will be similar to VW’s ID.4 and ID.5. With a new battery, the electric Explorer features up to 374 miles (600 km) range.

Ford-new-EV-crossover

The dual-motor Explorer EV uses the same 335 hp powertrain that powers Volkswagen’s GTX models with a 79 kWh battery. The single-motor model starts at £45,875 ($58,000), while a standard range model will be available later, starting at around £39,875 ($50,000).

Check back soon, as more details on Ford’s new EV crossover are expected to be released before its debut next week.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

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Peter Johnson is covering the auto industry’s step-by-step transformation to electric vehicles. He is an experienced investor, financial writer, and EV enthusiast. His enthusiasm for electric vehicles, primarily Tesla, is a significant reason he pursued a career in investments. If he isn’t telling you about his latest 10K findings, you can find him enjoying the outdoors or exercising

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The 10 best graduation trips to take in 2024

Chamidae  Ford

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Three friends jumping with happiness next to their car with palm trees in the background

Grab your friends and get ready for the trip of a lifetime © Frazao Studio Latino / Getty Images

There's nothing like graduating to make you want a celebratory vacation.

Both a massive accomplishment and a bittersweet end of an era, completing your studies can also be a reality check as you begin the next phase of your life.

So, where should you go once you graduate? These 10 incredible destinations allow you to put off real life for a little bit longer.

A man flips into the deep blue water of a cenote in Mexico.

Affordable and with a wealth of diverse things to do, Mexico is the perfect post-graduation escape. The country has a happy place for everyone. Head to Tulum for a beachy, out-till-dawn vacation that is bursting will beach clubs, upscale cocktails and cerulean cenotes. Look to Puerto Vallarta for a classic, lay-by-the-pool escape. In Mexico City , you can try local delicacies and get lost in a museum for the afternoon. Stop by the stunning Museo Universitario del Chopo , which boasts an extensive contemporary art collection.  Oaxaca offers a mix of Indigenous and colonial influences, with day trips out to explore the natural world and local villages. Head to Santiago Apoala for a look at a remote Mixtec village in the heart of a towering mountain range. If the last four years in the library require some sunshine and a warm place to recover, there is no better place than Mexico to finish that beach read. 

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2. Road trip across the US

Nothing bonds a group together like a long car journey, making a road trip across the US with your mates the perfect post-graduation send-off. It's hard to grasp the magnitude of the United States until you drive through it. Pick between visiting iconic national parks like Yellowstone ,   Yosemite  and the Grand Canyon , or cruising along the West Coast from the Redwoods to Joshua Tree  with a stop in some of the Golden State's famed cities, like San Francisco and Los Angeles . Uncovering the mysteries of the West has long been an American tradition, not to mention watching the landscapes change and evolve in a matter of days is a mesmerizing experience.

To keep this adventure affordable, try camping in the national parks rather than staying in hotels. It will require some advanced planning, maybe even some reservations. Visit nps.gov for more information.

Few places have the same vacation appeal as Greece . With its hot, sunny climate and stellar museums, especially the Acropolis Museum , the fantastic restaurants and endless island hopping opportunities, it's hard to have a dull moment. Pro-tip: Don't skip Athens . The birthplace of Western civilization and a paradise for thinkers, artists and scientists, come see the starting place for man's greatest ideas. 

When it comes to Greece's islands, Mykonos is where the nightlife takes center stage, while Santorini provides a more romantic and relaxing atmosphere. Beware, a steep price tag comes with Greece's most popular island spots. Alternatively, if you crave a slightly less touristy experience, the Ionian Islands in early autumn make a great escape. Slow down, eat your way through fresh local delicacies and see what makes the Mediterranean way of life so revered. 

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4. Costa Rica

If college wasn't enough of a thrill, head to Costa Rica . Considered one of the happiest places on earth and packed with adventure opportunities, you can white water raft, zipline, traverse sky-high bridges, and surf the most stellar waves to your heart's content. 

If you've spent the last four years in the heart of a city and are in dire need of some nature, warm weather, and delicious food , this after-graduation trip is for you. Start your day with a hearty serving of gallo pinto , take refuge from the heat with a street mango smothered in lime juice, salt and chili powder and wrap up the day with chifrijo,  a local dish of fried pork and beans with all the toppings. Not to mention, eating your body weight in ceviche is considered a right of passage. Pura Vida is right!

Young asian couple sightseeing in a local market in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

5. Vietnam 

Affordable, beautiful and warm, a graduation trip to Vietnam gets you out of your comfort zone. Get lost in a sea of mopeds in Hanoi and slurp pho on stools along the sidewalk. Head up to Halong Bay , where you can tour its limestone islands on a junk boat. Enjoy an urban metropolis like Ho Chi Minh City , wander the Binh Tay Market  or visit Vietnam's only Taoist temple,  Khanh Van Nam Vien Pagoda , before cruising along the Mekong Delta and getting to know the locals at the Cai Rang Floating Market .

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

For a graduation trip that melds celebration with culture, look no further than New Orleans . The loud streets of this city burst with energy: live bands, dancing, cocktails and more. As New Orleans continues to be impacted by climate change, try to reduce your impact during your visit by using trains, bikes and public transport to explore the city.  Eat beignets (deep-fried pâte à choux pastries) in the French Quarter , listen to jazz in a dimly lit bar, and if you time it right, join in with the commotion of Mardi Gras . Beyond the nightlife, the Big Easy is famous for its flavorful cuisine and unique rich history. Make sure to take the time to appreciate both. Don't miss having a steaming bowl of gumbo or biting into a massive Po'boy. Follow it up with a visit to the  Ogden Museum of Southern Art , which explores the city's complex influences and longtime connection to the natural world.  

A couple walks down the streets of Brooklyn laughing happily.

7. New York City

A graduation trip can also be an opportunity to test out potential places you may want to live. For many, that means New York City . Visit before you commit to living here: it's busy, loud, (sometimes) stinky and eye-openingly wonderful. But it's not for everyone. For this test run, spend your time checking out galleries and parks while eating at some amazing restaurants. It will be a pricey trip, no matter how hard you try to budget. Still, it's a great chance to meet new people and try every cuisine you can imagine. Make sure to catch the train to Brooklyn for an afternoon in the Botanical Gardens .

8. South Africa

Not ready to stop learning? Head to South Africa . With a tumultuous and storied history, a trip to this stunning country can be life-changing. Apartheid isn't that far in the rearview mirror, and its lasting effects are visible across much of the nation. Dedicate time to visiting some of the historical sites in Johannesburg, such as the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill , a former prison turned Constitutional Court. Then, hit the beach to surf some famous waves at Addington Beach along the iconic Golden Mile or catch glimpses of South Africa's diverse wildlife in the expansive Kruger National Park . Keep your eyes peeled for big cats, elephants, rhinos and more. Find time to catch at least one sunset from the top of Table Mountain . Its unmatched views are accessible by cable car in Cape Town.

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With stunning fjords, shooting geysers, natural hot springs and the northern lights – Iceland offers an otherworldly reset from your studies. A nature-first vacation, try and dedicate some time beyond the beautiful capital Reykjavik . You'll need a large budget to chase waterfalls, sip pints and toast your graduation in Iceland, but you'll look at the world entirely anew. 

10. Florence, Italy

Florence offers a decadence and youthfulness that is easier to access than in Rome or Naples , and its Renaissance beauty will fill your aching heart if you don't want to leave university or college. Marvel at Botticelli's masterpiece, the Birth of Venus, in the Uffizi and wander the expansive Boboli Gardens . Luxuriate with two-hour dinners on one of their many piazzas, climb to the top of the fabled Duomo to take in the rolling hills in the distance. There is so much to love about Florence, but like most major cities in Italy, it can be expensive, but it's the price you pay to heal your heartache.

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ATLANTA, GA - JUNE 19: Diamond Time Dance Team from Louisiana participate in a parade to celebrate Juneteenth on June 19, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. Juneteenth marks the end of slavery in the United States and the Juneteenth National Independence Day became the 12th legal federal holiday signed in June 17th, 2021. (Photo by Megan Varner/Getty Images)

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  25. The 10 best graduation trips to take in 2024

    1. Mexico. Affordable and with a wealth of diverse things to do, Mexico is the perfect post-graduation escape. The country has a happy place for everyone. Head to Tulum for a beachy, out-till-dawn vacation that is bursting will beach clubs, upscale cocktails and cerulean cenotes. Look to Puerto Vallarta for a classic, lay-by-the-pool escape.