The fully electric Ford E-Transit van and converted chassis cab models are to start trials in Europe shortly ahead of their launch in spring 2022.
The prototype vehicles will join customer fleets covering the supermarket, home delivery, postal services and utilities sectors across Germany, Norway and the UK.
The real-world testing will give insights into how fleets are using the van in a variety of operating scenarios. This will help to enhance the final production vehicle, which is expected to bring a range of up to 217 miles (350km) and 272hp of power, supported by range-enhancing technologies including Eco Mode and Scheduled Pre-Conditioning. It’s also predicted to bring a total cost of ownership around 40% lower compared with internal combustion engine-equipped models.
“Real-world trials are an important step on our journey to deliver the all-electric E‑Transit and will give us an even better understanding of how to help customers across different industries enhance their productivity using zero-emission power,” said Andrew Mottram, E-Transit chief programme engineer, commercial vehicles, Ford of Europe.
Ford added that the data from the trials will be used to help refine E‑Transit’s next-gen connected vehicle technology and range management features to offer an optimised operating experience for customers.
The prototype vehicles taking part in the trial include E-Transit van and chassis cab variants with conversions including refrigerated bodies, box vans, dropsides and interior racking.
The production vehicle will launch with a variety of body, length, roof height and GVM options from launch, giving 25 possible variants.
It will also feature the same load area as diesel-powered Transit models to enable simple conversions and to allow Transit operators to reuse existing racking with the all-electric van. Anticipated payload is up to 1,616kg for vans and up to 1,967kg for chassis cab models.
The E-Transit will also feature a ProPower Onboard system that delivers up to 2.3kW through standard plugs to power conversions and equipment in the cab and load area.
Onboard tech includes Ford’s new SYNC 4 infotainment tech including an easy-to-use 12-inch screen and available cloud-connected navigation, enhanced through automatic wireless Software Updates.
