The Ford E-Transit Custom was recently unveiled to a select group of Australian journalists in a grand launch presentation in Frankfurt, Germany. Ed Correia, the Integration Manager for this ambitious vehicle development project, provided an in-depth look at the innovative design and engineering that went into creating this new electric van.
A new platform for versatility and efficiency
In Europe the all-new Transit Custom is built on a completely new platform designed to support a range of powertrains, including diesel, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and all-electric (EV) versions. This versatile platform is a leap forward from its predecessors, integrating innovative features inspired by customer feedback to enhance productivity and user convenience.
One of the most notable advancements is the significant weight reduction achieved by the new platform. The E-Transit Custom is over 100 kilograms lighter than its previous version, contributing to improved efficiency and performance. The new design also offers enhanced structural integrity, with the vehicle being 30% stiffer than the outgoing model, which improves both safety and ride comfort. The designers were also able to reduce drag by 13% to maximise the EV range.
Advanced powertrain options
European fleet customers will get a variety of powertrain options to suit different customer needs. The all-electric version is equipped with a 64-kilowatt-hour battery, providing a maximum driving range of up to 337 kilometres (WLTP). Customers can choose between 160-kilowatt and 100-kilowatt power outputs, both delivering 4150 Newton metres of torque. For those seeking even more power, the MS-RT version available in Europe offers up to 210 kilowatts.
Charging capabilities are also impressive. The vehicle supports 11-kilowatt AC three-phase onboard charging, allowing for a full charge in 6.7 hours. For quicker charges, it can handle up to 125-kilowatt DC fast charging, which can recharge the battery from 10% to 80% in about 39 minutes.
Enhanced cargo and accessibility
The E-Transit Custom is designed with practicality in mind, especially for businesses that rely on efficient cargo handling. The van features a wider door opening of over one metre, facilitating easy loading and unloading. The payload capacity reaches up to 1,10110 kilograms, ensuring it can handle substantial cargo.
A significant design improvement is the independent rear suspension, which not only enhances the ride comfort but also optimises cargo space and weight distribution. This new suspension system, along with the flat cabin floor enabled by repositioning the front wheels and suspension, provides a smoother and more comfortable driving experience.
Innovative features for productivity
The E-Transit Custom is packed with innovative features aimed at improving productivity and reducing costs for customers. One such feature is Delivery Assist, which automates several tasks that delivery drivers perform repeatedly each day. This system helps streamline operations and save valuable time.
Another safety feature, Exit Warning, alerts drivers when opening the door could cause an accident with a passing road user. This feature, combined with the Transit Custom’s high safety rating (a platinum level from Euro NCAP), ensures that drivers and pedestrians are well-protected.
Modern interior with smart technology
The interior of the E-Transit Custom is designed to provide a car-like driving environment, equipped with modern technology and conveniences. A 13-inch landscape touchscreen angled towards the driver, wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Alexa integration are some of the highlights. The vehicle also features an 8-inch digital cluster for easy readability and new USB connections for added convenience.
One of the standout features is the Mobile Office Pack, which includes a tilting steering wheel that can serve as a desk for laptops or a table for meals. This feature, along with the flat cabin floor, enables easy movement within the cabin, allowing drivers to access the rear cargo area without stepping out into traffic.
Cost of ownership and sustainability
Ford has focused on reducing the total cost of ownership for the E-Transit Custom. The electric powertrain is designed for efficiency and lower maintenance costs, with service intervals in Australia of 30,000km / 12 months and an 8 year/160,000km warranty covering all high-voltage components, on top of regular Ford’s 5-year, unlimited kilometre ‘Ford Express New Car Warranty’. Operating costs are expected to be significantly lower compared to diesel counterparts.
The vehicle’s sustainability credentials for European models are further enhanced by the availability of plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and EcoBlue diesel options, catering to customers at different stages of the transition to electric vehicles. The PHEV offers a combination of electric range (11.8 kWh battery) for city driving and a 2.5 litre engine for longer trips, making it a versatile option for various needs.
Comprehensive range and customisation
Because fleets and tradespeople favour vans over utilities in Europe, Ford is offering the most comprehensive and versatile lineup ever in the new Transit Custom. It includes various body styles such as cargo van, double cabin van, kombi, and an L-shaped bulkhead version. Customers can choose from different trim levels like Base, Trend, Limited, and premium Trail, as well as specialised versions like Active and Sport.
Each version is available with the same powertrain options, ensuring that fleets can find a model that perfectly fits their requirements. This flexibility in design and powertrain choices allows Ford to cater to a wide range of business and personal use cases.
The launch of the all-new Ford E-Transit Custom marks a significant milestone in the evolution of commercial vehicles in Europe and will make a big impact when it arrives in Australia later in 2024.
With its advanced electric powertrain, innovative features, and customer-centric design, it sets a new standard for efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. The Frankfurt launch event highlighted Ford’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology and unmatched versatility in the light commercial van market.
The E-Transit Custom is not just a step forward for Ford; it represents a leap towards a more sustainable and efficient future for fleets worldwide. As it hits the roads, it promises to redefine what customers can expect from a modern commercial van, combining practicality with advanced technology and eco-friendly credentials.
