Ford Crafts a Bespoke Explorer for Pope Leo XIV

Ford Motor Company has undertaken an extraordinary project: the creation of a one-of-a-kind Ford Explorer for Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff.

The customised 2026 Explorer Platinum hybrid was assembled at Ford’s historic Chicago Assembly Plant, just a few miles from the Pope’s hometown of Dolton, Illinois.

The vehicle, funded personally by Ford CEO Jim Farley and his wife, Lia, was presented during a private audience at the Vatican on 28 February. Farley explained that the project was inspired by the Pope’s deep Chicago roots and the chance to honour his journey from the South Side of Chicago to the Vatican.

Built by dozens of Ford employees who were initially told only that they were constructing a vehicle for a “VIP,” the Explorer features bespoke elements that celebrate both Chicago and Vatican City. These include Chicago flag seat tags, a skyline stitched into the centre console, and engravings of both the Chicago skyline and St Peter’s Basilica on the scuff plates. Vanity plates reading “DA POPE” and “LEO XIV” complete the personalised touches.

Inside, the hybrid SUV is equipped with a 3.3-litre V6 hybrid powertrain and a 10-speed hybrid transmission, as well as an antenna compatible with European radio systems. These technical upgrades ensure the Pope can comfortably use the vehicle throughout the Vatican grounds.

Farley noted that the Pope “noticed and appreciated all the personal touches,” even taking a brief drive to test out the sporty feel of the vehicle. The moment was especially meaningful for the Ford team, many of whom come from Catholic backgrounds or personal ties to the Chicago community the Pope once served. Jennifer Barilovich, the lead electrical systems integration engineer, described the project as “the highlight of my professional life.”

The gift symbolises not only Ford’s craftsmanship but also the pride of a city and its people in celebrating one of their own rising to global spiritual leadership.