A Divine Drive: Ford's Latest Gift to the Holy See
The Evolution of Papal Transportation: A Historical Overview of Ford's Contributions
Over the years, various automobiles have served as 'popemobiles,' many of which were crafted by Ford Motor Company. A notable example is the distinctive 1964 Lincoln Continental, specially modified by coachbuilder Lehmann-Peterson for Pope Paul VI's 1965 visit to New York. This stretched limousine featured an innovative open-air rear compartment, enabling the Pope to engage with the public. Another significant Ford vehicle was a 1980 Ford Bronco, utilized by Pope John Paul II during his 1979 visit to the United States. This white two-door pickup is often credited with popularizing the term 'popemobile' in the media, highlighting Ford's historical impact on papal transport.
A Contemporary Papal Ride: The Custom 2026 Ford Explorer
In a continuation of this tradition, Ford CEO Jim Farley and his wife, Lia, devout Catholics, recently presented a customized 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum AWD hybrid to Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City. This unique gift, assembled at the Chicago Assembly Plant, holds special significance as Pope Leo XIV is a native of Chicago. The vehicle stands out, featuring a hybrid engine typically reserved for the Police Interceptor Utility, making it a truly bespoke creation as Ford does not generally offer a hybrid Explorer Platinum model.
Crafting a Unique Vehicle: The Customization Process
The story behind this special Ford Explorer was shared by Ford spokesman Mark Truby. Last autumn, a dedicated team at the Chicago Assembly Plant was tasked with building a unique Explorer for a 'VIP.' The specifications included a high-end Platinum trim, an all-black exterior, meticulous hand-stitched seating, and intricate etchings of the Chicago skyline adorning the cabin, alongside the unique hybrid powertrain. After two months of dedicated work, the team learned the vehicle was destined for the Pope, a revelation that filled them with immense pride and excitement. In mid-February, the finished vehicle was shipped to Rome, where Jim and Lia Farley personally delivered it to Pope Leo XIV on February 28th. Truby noted that the Pontiff was particularly delighted by the various Chicago-themed details.
A Pope's Personal Preference: Enjoying a Sporty Drive
While originally intended as a private gesture, the Vatican issued a press release acknowledging the gifted vehicle, which is now at the disposal of the Pope and the Vatican. Ford is reportedly producing a video to document the story of this exceptional Explorer. Jim Farley revealed to the Detroit Free Press that he had initiated contact with the Vatican late last year to inquire about the Pope's potential need for a new vehicle. The Vatican expressed interest, setting the project in motion. Farley emphasized the connection, stating, "Pope Leo XIV has deep roots on Chicago's South Side — just like Ford. And we thought it would be especially fitting for him to drive an Explorer built at our Chicago Assembly Plant, which has been in continuous operation for more than a century."
Personal Touches and Performance: Details of the Papal Explorer
The Pope's preferences guided several design choices, including an all-black paint scheme and the inclusion of a hybrid powertrain. Special details within the vehicle reflect Pope Leo XIV's Chicago heritage, such as seat tags featuring the city's flag and treadplates engraved with both the Chicago skyline and St. Peter's Basilica. Playful additions include empty boxes from Aurelio's, the Pope's favorite Chicago pizza place, and a sign humorously proclaiming "Da Pope." Ford also secured two Illinois vanity plates, "DA POPE" and "LEO XIV," for the vehicle. Farley confirmed the Pope's appreciation for the personalized touches and the letters from Ford workers accompanying the car, adding, "I can confirm the Holy Father enjoys driving a sporty ride." The hybrid powertrain, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivers an impressive 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque, allowing for a top speed of 136 mph.