Ford Explorer to Take Lexie Alford Around the World

Ford wasted no time: shortly after unveiling the new Explorer to the world, it has already announced the model’s first major mission - an around-the-world journey.

The American brand is teaming up with Lexie Alford (better known as Lexie Limitless), the youngest person to have visited every country on Earth, to recreate the landmark global expedition completed by Aloha Wanderwell in the 1920s.

From Aloha Wanderwell’s record to today’s challenge

Between 1922 and 1927, Canadian adventurer Aloha Wanderwell became the first woman to drive around the world, a trip that took her through 43 countries. In a fitting twist, the car she used to set that record was a Ford Model T.

Wanderwell began her around-the-world expedition at just 16 years old and travelled to places no Western man or woman had visited before. The journey began and ended in Nice, France.

With that in mind, Ford sees this as the perfect moment to try to surpass Wanderwell’s (and the Model T’s) almost century-old feat - this time using a 100% electric vehicle that marks the beginning of the brand’s European line-up revolution. You can see it here:

Ford Explorer and Lexie Alford: carrying on the legacy

Much as Ford backed Aloha Wanderwell’s “dream” around 100 years ago, it now intends to support Lexie Alford’s desire to continue that legacy - while also aiming to reshape what exploration can look like today.

We’re excited to see what our new Explorer and Lexie Alford can do together on this expedition inspired by Aloha Wanderwell’s groundbreaking journey. We were part of Aloha’s journey many years ago and have helped people set out on ambitious adventures ever since; we can’t wait to see how our electric future keeps that fearless spirit alive.

Martin Sander, General Manager, Ford Model and Europe

When the expedition starts - and when the Explorer arrives in Portugal

Lexie Alford’s expedition is due to begin towards the end of this year and, if everything goes to plan, it will finish with a new record. The exact route has not yet been announced, but it will certainly need to factor in the charging stops required to keep the Explorer moving.

One thing is clear: Lexie could not be more excited about the scale of the challenge ahead. “Aloha Wanderwell’s story is inspiring in so many ways - and not only because she broke barriers for women explorers,” she said.

I’m excited to honour her story on this incredible journey and help tell again the life of a truly inspiring explorer.

Lexie Alford, the youngest person to visit every country in the world

Production of the Ford Explorer starts next October, and it is set to reach Portuguese roads by the end of the year - around the same time Lexie Alford’s adventure gets under way.