The auto industry is abuzz with news from Ford about an all-electric version of the classic Mustang. The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E will undoubtedly experience high demand upon its release. Currently, in the pre-order phase, it is expected to become available in the summer of 2021.

The highly anticipated vehicle is already catching the attention of auto industry experts. The performance ratings and stylish design will be a welcome addition to the EV segment.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E, while impressive, has several reviewers wondering if the new automobile has any real connection to the original Mustang.

How the all-electric Mach-E crossover compares to a classic Mustang

Released in 1964 at the World’s Fair by Henry Ford, the Mustang has a strong heritage with auto enthusiasts loyal to its brand. Whenever changes are made to the iconic vehicle, fans of the vintage ride hold their breath hoping not too much alters the pony-powered automobile.

With the all-new 2021 Mach-E making the Mustang electric, there is most likely going to be a lot of hesitation, with reviewers wondering where Ford is heading with this new EV.

CNET’s Roadshow reviewers took the Mustang Mach-E for a test drive, and while really loving the car overall, they struggled to find any real connection to this model and a classic Mustang.

Car and Driver agreed, saying, “Although it shares a name and familiar styling cues with the Mustang, the all-electric crossover otherwise is completely unrelated.”

The biggest connection between the Mach-E and the original Mustang

Roadshow was impressed by the acceleration that was provided by the 332 hp and 417 lb-ft of torque. They noted that “the instantaneous electric torque makes for exciting starts, but it’s not enough to rip your toupee off your scalp.”

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E doesn’t have the same sporty enthusiasm of the classic Mustang. The tame electric existence seems to offer more of a “grand-touring-style experience,” according to Roadshow test drivers.

The EPA estimated range varies between 211 miles and 300 miles, dependent upon the model and battery size. Tech features are impressive, and the state-of-the-art 15.5-inch infotainment system is class-leading in its center-display features and vehicle modes. The spacious five-passenger interior provides a comfortable environment, often hard to come by in other EVs in the segment.

While all of this is impressive, it holds little resemblance to an authentic Mustang. The Mach-E is only similar in appearance when it comes to the exterior design. The roofline and body style, especially in the rear, look like the Mustang drivers have become accustomed. The front end has the same Mustang styled grille, and the headlights and taillights don’t look very different either.

Roadshow noted that the Mach-E “offers daily usability in a way that most Mustangs don’t.” They felt, “the Mach-E is a sign of great things to come from Ford — not only for its most precious nameplate but for every future EV the automaker produces.”

Impressive results before it even hits showroom floors

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E is currently in the running for the 2021 North American SUV of the Year Award. The highly-regarded vehicle has industry experts anxiously awaiting the introduction of this Ford product into the EV market.

As the country leans toward less reliance on fossil fuels, automobiles like the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E will prove to be a game-changer in the way Americans drive their vehicles.

Car and Driver noted that “While purists might call an electric Mustang crossover sacrilegious, Ford expects the name and design adaptation to increase interest and help sell a lot of copies of the 2021 Mach-E.”