Ford has been a leader in the commercial vehicle market for decades with its iconic Transit range of vans and trucks. But as the world shifts to a more sustainable and electrified future, Ford is not resting on its laurels. The company has recently unveiled the all-new, all-electric E-Transit Custom, a one-tonne van that promises to deliver outstanding performance, efficiency, and versatility for businesses and fleets.
The Ford E-Transit Custom is based on the popular Transit Custom, which is the best-selling vehicle of any kind in the UK. But unlike its diesel-powered sibling, the E-Transit Custom is powered by a 400-volt, 74kWh battery pack that offers a targeted range of up to 236 miles. That’s more than enough for most urban and suburban delivery routes, according to Ford Pro customer data.
The battery pack uses advanced pouch cells that provide 12% more energy density than the larger E-Transit. It also features a direct-to-body mounting system that improves durability and reduces weight for optimum range. The battery pack is covered by an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty.
The Ford E-Transit Custom comes with two electric motor options: a 136PS version that delivers 415Nm of torque and a 218PS version that offers the same torque but with more power and acceleration. Both motors are mounted directly to the vehicle’s rear floor, eliminating the need for a dedicated subframe and saving space and complexity.
The electric drivetrain also enables the E-Transit Custom to have a class-leading towing capacity of up to 2,000kg, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. The E-Transit Custom also has a payload capacity of up to 1,200kg, depending on the body style and configuration.
The E-Transit Custom is available in two wheelbase lengths (L1 and L2) and two roof heights (H1 and H2), offering a choice of load volumes from 6.0 to 8.3 cubic meters. The load area is identical to the diesel Transit Custom, meaning that existing racking and storage systems can be easily transferred. The load area also features LED lighting, tie-down points, and side access doors for convenience.
One of the most innovative features of the E-Transit Custom is the ProPower Onboard technology, which allows users to plug in power tools, lights, and devices while off-grid. The E-Transit Custom can provide up to 2.3kW of power from three 230-volt sockets located in the cabin and the load area. This can be useful for tradespeople, mobile workshops, or outdoor events.