Engineering Explained Host Buys Ford Mustang Mach-E After Lucid Air and Tesla Experiences

Jason Fenske, host of the automotive YouTube channel Engineering Explained, has purchased a 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E Performance after a series of unsatisfactory experiences with other electric vehicles, including a Tesla Model 3 and a Lucid Air.

What Happened

Fenske detailed his vehicle history on the Plugged-In Podcast and in a recent video, explaining that he previously owned a Tesla Model 3 Performance for several years. However, he swore off the brand after Elon Musk’s involvement in government cuts affected his family. Seeking a vehicle with sophisticated engineering, Fenske acquired a Lucid Air, but described that ownership as ending in disaster. He also noted that a Lucid Gravity offered as a long-term loan to bridge a gap was more trouble than it was worth.

Fenske initially aimed to wait for a Rivian R2 but required a daily driver sooner. He also attempted to acquire a Genesis GV60 in a specific color without success. Consequently, he purchased a four-year-old Cyber Orange Metallic Mustang Mach-E Performance a few months ago. The vehicle features 480 horsepower, an EPA-rated range of 260 miles, and a magnetic suspension system. Fenske highlighted the presence of physical controls for gear selection, wipers, lights, and volume as a key factor, noting he missed these features in his Tesla and Lucid.

Why It Matters

The switch highlights a segment of EV buyers who prioritize tangible user interface elements over minimalist digital designs. Fenske acknowledged that the Mach-E is not without flaws, citing a laggy display, counterintuitive door handles, and a charging curve that takes approximately 40 minutes to go from 10% to 80%. His real-world testing indicated a highway range of 212 miles, which he noted makes the car less ideal for road trips. Despite these criticisms, Fenske maintained that the instantaneous torque, silent operation, and low maintenance requirements of EVs outweigh the drawbacks, leading him to use the Mach-E for most trips while keeping a gas-powered Mustang in his garage.

The Bottom Line

Fenske’s transition to the Mustang Mach-E underscores the importance of physical controls and brand alignment for some EV consumers, even when accepting trade-offs in charging speed and interface responsiveness.