A visit to Kocaeli in Turkey provided the exclusive opportunity to view and hear more about Ford’s new electric E-Transit commercial vehicle that is set to provide businesses with a new benchmark for zero-emission productivity, value and ownership experience when it comes to market next year. A first drive in pre-production models was also provided.
The Ford E-Transit is designed to satisfy a wide range of customer use-cases, with a 68 kWh usable battery capacity as standard, providing a best-in-class targeted driving range of up to 317 km WLTP. True Transit capability is delivered by the powerful motor offering 430 Nm of torque (with a choice of 135 kW or 198 kW maximum output), payloads up to 1,758 kg on the panel van model, and a comprehensive range of 25 variants with van, crew-cab and chassis cab body styles with multiple lengths and roof heights and GVMs from 3.5 to 4.25 tonnes.
For maximum on-site productivity, operators can specify exportable power via the unique ProPower Onboard feature, which delivers up to 2.3 kW from standard plug sockets in the cab and load area, to power tools, lights, laptops and conversions such as refrigeration units.
Following a punishing global testing and development programme, E-Transit is kicking off a programme of trials with customer partners across Europe to demonstrate the productivity benefits of electrified commercial vehicles and help refine the operator experience ahead of the first ETransit customer deliveries in spring 2022.
Vehicle charging is a critical element for businesses adopting electric vehicles, and Ford is providing a comprehensive package to support customers with their needs for depot, home and public charging. The E-Transit can charge from 15 per cent to 80 per cent in 34 minutes from a 115 kW DC fast charger. An overnight full charge from a Ford Wallbox with a 230-volt 16A 3-phase AC supply takes just over 8 hours.
E-Transit is offered in two series – Base and Trend – and all vehicles offer equipment levels that are significantly higher than the equivalent diesel model.
E-Transit introduces the new SYNC 4 communications and information system to Ford’s commercial vehicle range in Europe, offering twice the computing power of SYNC 3 and controlled with an easy-to-use 12-inch touchscreen.
Key new driver assistance systems that help minimise repair costs include Reverse Brake Assist, which uses a camera and sensors to detect pedestrians, cyclists and static obstacles when reversing and can deliver a warning before automatically stopping the vehicle if the driver does not react. Drivers also benefit from a new 360 Camera, giving a birds-eye view of ETransit’s surroundings on the 12inch dashboard screen to help avoid obstacles when manoeuvring in tight spaces with a limited view.
Ford offers a class-leading, one-year, unlimited mileage service interval and eight-year, 160,000 km warranty for all high-voltage electric components, as well as a one-year electric vehicle roadside assistance package including rescue charging. The pan-European service network is EV-ready with 1500 EV Certified Dealers across Europe, and over 4,500 Authorised Repairers which will all have service capability for launch.
As expected the drive experience was seamlessly smooth, with each of the three driving modes tried out to feel the strength of the regeneration of the battery pack. Remarkably, although electric, it still has the characteristic Ford driving feel.
More details in the next edition of Fleet Van & Utility.
