by A Gift from Ford for the New Pope
In 2021, Ford created a unique Bronco to support the Pope Francis Center in Detroit. Five years later, the company presented a specially customized Explorer for the new Pope, Leo XIV.
While the Bronco undoubtedly looks cooler, the Explorer is a highly symbolic choice as it is manufactured in Chicago, the very city where the new Pope was born. The car was a gift from Ford CEO Jim Farley and his wife Lia. Reports indicate the pontiff will use this SUV in the Vatican.
Features of the Special Version
The 2026 Explorer Platinum model was personally delivered to the Pope on February 28th by the Farleys. The car has a black body with chrome accents, as well as special license plates with the inscriptions “DA POPE” and “LEO XIV”.
The most significant changes were made to the interior. The crossover received two-tone leather seats with patches in the shape of the Chicago flag. The city’s skyline is also embroidered on the center console lid and engraved on the door sills. These details are complemented by graphics depicting St. Peter’s Basilica and an upgraded audio system capable of receiving European radio frequencies.
Technical Specifications and Reaction
The vehicle received a hybrid powertrain based on a 3.3-liter V6 engine, with an estimated power output of 318 horsepower. This is notable because the hybrid version is no longer offered for the regular Explorer and is only available for the police version of the SUV.
Jim Farley shared that the Pope took a short test drive in the crossover and “appreciated all the personal details.” The pontiff also expressed his Chicago pride and blessed several rosaries to be given to company employees.
The Pope “appreciated all the personal details”
The Choice of an American Model
Interestingly, the Farleys chose to gift the Pope the American Explorer. The European version of this model, which is a reworked Volkswagen ID.4 with unique design and up to 335 horsepower, could have been a more practical choice for use in Europe. However, the symbolism associated with the pontiff’s birthplace proved decisive.
This gift continues Ford’s tradition of creating unique vehicles for the Vatican, demonstrating how an automaker can combine corporate social responsibility with deep attention to detail and personal connections. The use of hybrid technology, which is no longer available to the general public, also underscores the exclusivity of this project. Such gestures, combining technology, the art of customization, and cultural aspects, often become notable events that transcend the automotive industry, reminding us of the importance of a personal approach even in global business.
