By Dustin Hostetler
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, August 18, 2025: In a world increasingly driven by connection and exploration, the all-new 2025 Ford Expedition stands as a testament to thoughtful design, collaborative innovation, and a deep understanding of what modern adventurers truly seek.
Far from a mere evolution, this Expedition represents a revolution, meticulously crafted from the ground up by a dedicated team of designers who shared their “Blueprint for Adventure” – a fascinating glimpse into the sketches, stories, and sheer passion that brought this remarkable SUV to life.
Underpinning the entire design process for Expedition was the fundamental tool of sketching. As Creative Designer Chad Phillips explains, sketching styles adapt to the problem at hand, from emotional “selling” sketches to clear, simple execution drawings. “Freehand sketching is also very important early in the idea process because there are few limitations and lots of freedom to come up with new designs that later might need modifications to be feasible, but the idea is there and could lead to something innovative.”
Jill Dougherty, an exterior designer focused on the Tremor variant, describes sketching as the “quickest way to communicate an idea,” a visual expression of thought. “You can catch all of us designers constantly sketching with pen and paper during meetings, generating new ideas and problem-solving.” This extends to digital sketching, including 3D modeling, VR, and AR, allowing designers to create life-size sketches in virtual space. Senior Interior Designer Micah Jones succinctly puts it: “Sketching is the method of taking what’s in one’s mind and making it visible for others to see.” Stuart Jamieson, Design Manager at Ford, with a touch of humor, declares: “I would be lost without a pencil and paper and my most indispensable tool, an eraser.”
At the heart of the 2025 Expedition’s groundbreaking design is a philosophy centered on enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal, creating a vehicle that doesn’t just transport, but transforms; an ethos perhaps best embodied by the game-changing Ford Split Gate.
“It’s a unique design opportunity where we got to design something that not only functions differently but also adds a unique look,” explains exterior designer Dougherty. This ingenious feature marries the convenience of a traditional SUV liftgate with the cargo management prowess of a pickup truck tailgate, where three-quarters of the gate ascend like a conventional liftgate, and the lower quarter folds down, creating an unparalleled versatility.
Complementing the Split Gate is the reconfigurable Cargo Management System, a stroke of genius from the interior design team. Jones, co-lead on this particular innovation, describes it as transforming the cargo area into a “multipurpose use space for seating, (and) tiered storage,” among other things.
A dynamic system borne of extensive brainstorming and prototyping, it allows owners to effortlessly convert the space into a table or even stadium seating, fostering a “Linger Longer” concept that encourages connection and enjoyment in any environment.1
“The process for creating it was very collaborative and hands-on,” Jones recounts, highlighting the team’s relentless pursuit of perfection. “Design Manager, Dustin Shedlarski always fostered a spirit of ‘that’s cool, but what else can we do?’ So, we continued pushing to create a whole tailgating experience that keeps improving.”
The “Linger Longer” philosophy extends beyond the cargo area, too. Such as with the available exterior Zone Lighting that envelops the Expedition in four distinct lighting zones, providing illumination for everything from tailgating under the stars to setting up camp in the wilderness, boasting a thoughtful integration of light and space guaranteeing that the adventure doesn’t end when the engine turns off.
For those whose adventures take them further off the beaten path, the new Tremor package elevates exponentially the Expedition’s rugged capabilities—a clear signal of Ford’s commitment to empowering owners to explore without limits. Dougherty, who focused most on the most off-road capable Expedition ever, expresses her excitement: “As for the Tremor, I just love how this variant is going to enable people to go further into the wilderness. It looks super tough with its off-road lighting, ground clearance, chunky tires, and bash plates.”
The collaborative spirit that defines the 2025 Expedition’s design journey is evident in every detail, like with creative designer Phillips, who worked on the exterior, developing details like the taillamp, roof rack, and rear components, emphasizing the synergy with studio engineers, where constant dialogue between design and engineering guaranteed that innovative concepts translated seamlessly into tangible, functional features.
A striking visual element that unifies the Expedition’s bold presence is the coast-to-coast signature lighting—not simply illumination; rather it’s about making a statement. And designer manager Jamieson, who contributed to this distinctive feature, expressed his particular pride in its impact.
Phillips adds: “It creates a sense of premium, bold strength when seen driving down the road.” And Dougherty echoed the sentiment, noting how it offers a “unique down-the-road graphic and highlights the overall width of the vehicle.”
Inside, the Expedition continues to impress with its focus on human-centered design, where Jones—who “was involved from the very beginning with this feature and it’s amazing to look back and consider how it evolved”—highlights the flex-powered console as a personal favorite. Inspired by early research into transformational functional moments, the console offers spontaneous storage1, exceptional comfort, and ergonomic excellence, all while maintaining a compelling design.
Jones also praises the overall interior aesthetic, established by Erwan Besancon’s design theme, which is “decidedly and intentionally not truck-derived. Instead, it is very progressive and unique and creates a very welcoming environment” for a fresh approach that creates a truly inviting and luxurious cabin experience.
Expedition’s designers are confident that customers will be equally thrilled with these innovations, with Dougherty suggesting the functionality of the Ford Split Gate, especially with the interior team’s work on the cargo manager, will be one of the vehicle’s major draw. Jones, on the other hand, points to the Ford Digital Experience, which transforms stationary moments into opportunities for entertainment with streaming videos, games, and apps1, though he also emphasized the expansive use of soft, wrapped materials and wide seats, creating a “very plush place to be.”
The 2025 Ford Expedition is more than just a vehicle; it’s a testament to the power of human ingenuity, collaborative spirit, and the enduring magic of a simple sketch. From the groundbreaking Ford Split Gate to the inviting interior and rugged Tremor variant, every element has been meticulously crafted to empower owners to embark on their own adventures, linger longer, and create unforgettable memories. The blueprint has been laid, and the adventure awaits.
Dustin Hostetler is the Ford Design Strategic Communications lead.
Notes:
1 Unavailable in the Middle East markets.
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