New Ford E-Transit Custom
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Britain’s most popular van has received an EV makeover to send it into the new electric age.
The smaller Ford E-Transit Custom follows in the footsteps of the full-sized E-Transit and becomes the second of four electric vans that Ford plans to release by 2024.
The new electric Custom comes with a 74kWh battery that’s capable of providing 236 miles of range on just a single charge. Ford has altered the Custom’s body shape to reduce drag and has included an energy-efficient heat pump on all variants.
The battery on the Custom also doubles up as a 2.3kW power pack that can power external devices. This feature will undoubtedly be useful for DIY specialists and construction workers.
DC charging capability means that if you can get access to a powerful DC charger, the electric Custom can be charged from 15-80% in just 41 minutes. An onboard 11kW AC charger can also do the job in just over 7 hours.
Entry-level Ford E-Transit Customs produce a total of 134bhp whereas the higher spec version has 215bhp. Both provide 415Nm of torque and have one-pedal driving capabilities.
For day-to-day business needs, the Custom can tow up to 2 tonnes and has a maximum payload of 1.1 tonnes. For aerodynamics, the van stands just under 2 metres tall.
Ford has incorporated many small design elements to improve convenience for van drivers. Things such as automatic door locks, an L-shaped bulkhead to provide space for five seats in the cabin and a large side door that can be opened simply by waving your foot under the sill.
A smoothed-over honeycomb grille and thin LED headlights complete a mean and clean exterior look. The charging flap is located at the front by the bumper.
On the inside, there’s a standard-fit SYNC 4 infotainment system that comes with a 13-inch touchscreen and an onboard 5G modem. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are likely to be available too.
For businesses that need to complete paperwork whilst in their vans, Ford has included an office lighting system as well as a multifunctional steering wheel that can be adjusted to act like a tabletop.
The fully electric E-Transit custom will enter production next year.