Review of the New Ford E-Transit Custom
Ford Pro has revamped the best-selling van in Europe, the Ford Transit Custom, offering a choice of three electric motors. The e-Transit has been designed as a practical work tool that is economically efficient and enjoyable to drive. Automobile-Propre had the opportunity to test drive it with the 100 kW motor.
Service-Oriented Productivity
Ford Pro provides various tools to streamline the work of E-Transit Custom clients, including a 13-inch touchscreen with Sync 4 communication and infotainment functions, access to the Ford Pro ecosystem via a 5G modem, and Alexa voice activation for making phone calls.
Rigidity and Lightweight Construction
The new E-Transit Custom boasts a 30% more rigid chassis and is 100 kg lighter. It comes in two sizes, offering cargo volumes of 5.7 m³ and 6.8 m³, while the electric motor version provides a payload of up to one ton and a towing capacity of 2.3 tons.
Electric: Three Power Options
The E-Transit comes with three electric motor options: 100 kW (136 hp), 160 kW (218 hp), and 210 kW (286 hp) for the MS-RT version. The powertrain generates 415 Nm of torque and is powered by a 64 kWh battery offering a range of 337 km. Rapid charging can reach 125 kW, taking only 39 minutes to go from 10% to 80% battery charge.
Pleasurable Driving Experience
Driving the 100 kW version was a breeze, with swift acceleration and excellent visibility. The E-Transit’s energy efficiency is commendable, averaging 19.5 kWh/100 km and reaching up to 21 kWh/100 km on highways. Some minor suspension issues could be felt on uneven road surfaces due to the 17-inch Goodyear tires.
Additional features include a horizontal adjustable steering wheel that can function as a desk and a roof-mounted passenger airbag that creates extra storage space. The base model starts at €46,330 and includes a steam-injection heat pump for efficient heating and cooling, enhancing overall battery life.
The Limited edition, priced at €47,890, offers premium features like Sync 4 infotainment, heated seats, and electrically folding mirrors. With lower maintenance costs and a promise of better efficiency than diesel counterparts, the Eco-Friendly E-Transit is a promising option for businesses.