How Lexie Alford plans to drive around the world in a Ford Explorer electric SUV

Lexie Alford is no stranger to adventure. The 25-year-old American traveler holds the Guinness World Record for being the youngest person to visit all 195 sovereign countries in the world. She achieved this feat in 2019, when she was only 21 years old, after spending years of saving, planning, and exploring the most diverse and remote places on the planet.

But Lexie is not done yet. She has a new challenge in mind: to drive around the world in a Ford Explorer electric SUV. Lexie announced her ambitious project on her social media platforms, where she has a combined following of over one million fans. She said she wants to use this opportunity to showcase the beauty and diversity of the world, as well as to promote sustainable and responsible travel.

"I'm so excited to partner with Ford for this incredible adventure. I've always loved road trips, and I think there's no better way to experience a country than by driving through it. And what better vehicle to do it than the Ford Explorer electric SUV, which is not only spacious, comfortable, and powerful, but also eco-friendly and efficient," Lexie said in a video.

The Ford Explorer electric SUV is the latest addition to Ford's growing portfolio of electrified vehicles. It is based on Volkswagen's MEB platform, which is designed specifically for electric cars. The Explorer EV offers a range of up to 310 miles on a single charge and can be recharged from 10% to 80% in just 25 minutes at a fast-charging station. It also features a movable 15-inch touchscreen that can adjust to different lighting conditions and hide a lockable storage space behind it.

The Ford Explorer EV is currently only available in Europe, where it starts at less than $48,500. It is part of Ford's plan to electrify its entire lineup in Europe by 2030 and to become an all-electric brand by 2035. Ford said it expects to sell more than one million electric vehicles in Europe by 2028.

Lexie's journey will begin in Germany, where the Ford Explorer EV is produced at Ford's Cologne factory. She will then drive through Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas, covering more than 60 countries and over 100,000 miles. She estimates that the trip will take her about two years to complete, depending on the travel restrictions and challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lexie said she will document her adventure on her YouTube channel, Lexie Limitless, where she already has over 440,000 subscribers. She will also share her insights and tips on her blog and Instagram account, where she has over 600,000 followers. She said she hopes to inspire others to follow their dreams and explore the world with curiosity and respect.

Ford Explorer electric SUVFord Explorer electric SUV

"I want to show people that traveling is not only fun and rewarding but also educational and meaningful. I want to share the stories and cultures of the people I meet along the way and raise awareness about the environmental and social issues that affect our planet. I want to prove that traveling can be done sustainably and responsibly, even in an electric car," Lexie said.

Lexie is not the first person to attempt to drive around the world in an electric vehicle. In 2017, a Dutch couple completed a three-year journey across 33 countries in a modified electric Volkswagen Golf. In 2019, a Swiss teacher drove across 21 countries in an electric Hyundai Kona. However, Lexie's project is arguably the most ambitious and comprehensive one yet.

Lexie said she is ready for the challenge and eager to start her adventure. She said she has already done extensive research and preparation for her trip, including obtaining visas, vaccinations, insurance, and permits. She said she will also rely on her experience and skills as a seasoned traveler, as well as on the support of her family, friends, fans, and sponsors.

"I know this won't be easy. I know there will be obstacles and difficulties along the way. But I also know that there will be amazing moments and memories that will last a lifetime. I'm not afraid of the unknown. I'm excited about it. I can't wait to see what the world has to offer," Lexie said.

Lexie's adventure is expected to begin in early 2023. You can follow her progress on her website www.lexielimitless.com, or on her social media platforms @lexielimitless.