Jim Farley, CEO of Ford, gifted Pope Leo XIV a customized Explorer Platinum SUV with several “personal touches” created in his honor.
The Pope’s hometown, where he was born in Chicago (USA), was honored with city flag tags on the seats, along with an embroidered skyline profile of the city on the center console.
The vehicle, which features a 3.3-liter V6 hybrid powertrain and a 10-speed hybrid transmission, was built at the Ford assembly plant in Chicago and also includes personalized license plates that read “DA POPE” and “LEO XIV”.
The vehicle was delivered to the American pontiff at a private event on February 28, according to a report by The New York Post. Leo plans to use the vehicle to travel across the Vatican, according to Ford.
“He noticed and appreciated the personal touches. We even took a quick drive, and I can confirm that the Holy Father enjoys driving a sport utility vehicle,” said Farley.
“But more than anything, what stays with me is the feeling of gratitude and joy we experienced in meeting him and sharing this small gesture — one that reflects the pride and care of the Ford team back home in Chicago.”
Among the gifts the team sent to Leo were a special recognition coin from the Ford Chicago assembly plant and a pizza box from Aurelio’s Pizza, one of the Pope’s favorite restaurants in his hometown.
Photos: Ford. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
