Pope Leo XIV receives a “custom-built” Ford Explorer Platinum hybrid in honour of their shared roots: Chicago.
- Popes often receive vehicles as gifts
- Robert Francis Prevost, Leo XIV, is originally from Chicago
- The Pope received the vehicle on Feb. 28 in private, without a ceremony
Popes are regularly given vehicles during their pontificate. Often these are exotic cars that ultimately serve as items to be auctioned to raise money for charity. However, the latest automotive gift serves a very different purpose than philanthropy. Ford CEO Jim Farley commissioned a “custom” Explorer for Pope Leo. Why an Explorer? The SUV is built in Chicago, the hometown of Robert Francis Prevost.
The seat tags feature the Chicago flag.A “custom” gift
Dozens of Ford employees worked together to create this one-of-a-kind Explorer, presented to Pope Leo XIV by Ford CEO Jim Farley and his wife Lia at the end of February. The pontiff plans to use the vehicle to move around the Vatican grounds.
Like other Explorers, this one was assembled at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant, an industrial site that has operated for more than a century on the city’s South Side. The choice is symbolic: the Pope himself grew up about eight kilometres away, in the suburb of Dolton.
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An unusual colour choice
This Explorer is the most luxurious version of the model. However, Ford made a surprising choice when it comes to the vehicle’s colour. Traditionally, papal vehicles are painted white with gold accents. In this case, the Explorer will stand out in the parking lot because it is black. Perhaps it was Farley’s way of making sure his gift stands out.
The vehicle received several modifications, including a 3.3-litre V6 hybrid powertrain paired with a 10-speed hybrid transmission. The choice of this powertrain is somewhat surprising, considering it has not been offered in the Explorer lineup for several years. An antenna compatible with the European radio broadcast system was also added. The vanity licence plates read “DA POPE” and “LEO XIV”.
Small details that make a difference
Inside, several design elements highlight the connection between Chicago and the Vatican. Aluminum door sills feature the skyline of Chicago on the left and the silhouette of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome on the right. The same attention to detail appears on the dashboard in front of the passenger.
Dozens of Ford employees worked together to create the one-of-a-kind Explorer, which was gifted to Pope Leo XIV from Ford CEO Jim Farley and his wife, Lia, at the end of February.In addition to these trim pieces, the Chicago skyline is embroidered on the headrests, and small Chicago city flags are integrated into the stitching of the front seats.
Jim and Lia Farley personally presented the vehicle to the Pope during a private audience at the Vatican on Feb. 28.
“He noticed and appreciated all the personal touches,” Jim Farley said about the pontiff’s reaction. “We even took a quick drive, and I can confirm the Holy Father enjoys driving a sporty vehicle.”
According to the Ford executive, the conversation was marked above all by the pride they share in their Chicago roots. Farley brought a photo of the Chicago Assembly Plant team as well as handwritten letters from employees who worked on the project. In return, the Pope blessed several rosaries for the staff.
