Frankfurt, Germany. mobile.bg team from the venue.
In its electric version, the big Ford E-Transit was quickly recognized by major companies such as Amazon and now seamlessly makes deliveries without a carbon footprint. now on the move is the Ford E-Transit Custom, which is the equivalent of the classic E-Transit, but this time - intended for small and medium-sized businesses.
The Ford Transit Custom is the mid-size van in the Blue Oval range, and this new all-electric version is more than just a zero-emissions proposition. Before long, it will very likely be not only Ford's best-selling electric van, but also in the coming years its best-selling model, replacing the same Transit Custom, but equipped with a diesel engine, which has become a favorite work tool for all Europeans - from plumbers and builders to huge multinational companies.
The bet that Ford is making with the E-Transit Custom is huge, and for that reason the new generation is crucial for the little one. This is a matter not only of maintaining market dominance, but also of a kind of "blowing" of competitors with a new era of practical and technological electric vans.
Our team had the opportunity to test the capabilities of this innovation, and our initial impressions are that the electric Transit Custom is indeed as well thought out as the "Blue Oval" claims. Among its main positive qualities are: excellent handling, a very good ride and a diverse range of bodies.
Of course, like any other car, this one has its flaws. The ones we found related to higher levels of aerodynamic noise in the cabin, a need for more physical controls and one idea less mileage in real-world conditions. Here is more specifically what led us to these conclusions.
Ford E-Transit Custom L1H1 is an electric car with a synchronous motor and a lithium-ion battery, the energy from which is transmitted to the rear axle. The power of the model we tested was 134 horsepower, which turned out to be quite enough for the relatively light (for an electric bus) E-Transit, which has a mass of 2,225 kilograms.
The battery has a capacity (usable) of 64kWh, which provides a range of 325 kilometers. In real conditions and properly loaded, the Ford E-Transit Custom can travel 250 kilometers, which at first glance is not much, but is sufficient for the work of most small and medium-sized companies operating in large cities.
Exterior
The bus is built on a brand new platform, which is adapted to both the diesel versions, as well as the hybrid and all-electric versions. The E-Transit Custom features a dizzying array of body types and combinations. The bus is available with a standard cargo compartment, with a double cabin and in a passenger version called Tourneo.
There are also trim levels to suit (almost) all budgets, with our recommendation being to skip the Base level and start choosing a van from the range with the Trend safety system, which includes lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control and reversing camera. Highlights of the Limited trim include electrically heated seats and LED lights, while the sport-oriented vans, like the one we tested and you see in the photos, are largely recognizable by the distinctive bonnet stripes.
There is also an even sportier version, designated as the MS-RT, which will attract the most eyes with its divisive color options and aero styling package. For ordinary vans, the updated image is toned down, but the vision stands out again with the thin headlights and a more futuristic design of the radiator grille.
Interior
In the cabin, there's a bright, clear 13-inch screen to control most of the settings, but commendably in our view, there's also a row of physical buttons for the most frequently used functions, giving quicker access to controls.< /p>
The instrument panel also gets an 8-inch digital screen to convey the all-important electric drive data, while thanks to the built-in 5G modem, fleet managers can access everything from the vehicle's charging status to alerts for security using Ford's ever-evolving systems Ford Pro connected services.
„As for comfort, we have to say that the seats are firm, but ergonomic and comfortable. The cargo space impresses not so much with its size, but with functional and large openings, both at the back and from the side door.
Engines and driving characteristics
Unusual for a Ford mid-size van, power in the electric version we tested goes to the rear wheels. To increase the ground clearance without increasing the height of the loading sill, the motor, available in outputs of 134 hp, 214 hp. or 281 hp, and its high-voltage components have been reconfigured. In principle, in this type of car, the control units are usually arranged on top of the engine, but now they are located behind it, which makes the unit more compact and suitable for this size van.
The lowest-powered model feels more than sufficiently dynamic, but the 214bhp option. in Limited or Sport is a significant step up. Taking things to the next level is the top-of-the-line MS-RT. With its 281 hp it's an absurdly overpowered but enjoyable car, capable of unofficially 0-100km/h in just 7 seconds. Single-pedal drive mode is an option in the sub-menu of the van's three drive modes: normal, sport and eco, but the recuperation here isn't as good, and apart from feeling heavier, L-mode has no particular benefits.< /p>
But the Transit Custom's best attribute has always been handling, and the E-Transit Custom has improved the recipe. The extra weight of the battery keeps the van stable and instills more confidence in every aspect of its performance and feel. Its handling is without a doubt the best in the world of buses, building on its already benchmark diesel sibling.
The electric bus feels balanced, regardless of how aggressive the driver is with both the steering wheel and the accelerator. Ride comfort is also impressive, although not noticeably different from the diesel. The downside is the soundproofing of the cabin, more could be done to improve noise levels, but that's really the only criticism we have of the model. According to Ford engineers, this is partly due to the slightly thinner glass – weight saving feature introduced in the new range.
That E-Transit is a working tool doesn't lessen the anxiety about mileage - after all, you can't really engage with a customer contact while you're at work. However, a 64kWh battery provides a WLTP range of 325km, while charging speeds of up to 125kW mean the battery can be charged from 10 - 80% in just half an hour - or in eight and a half hours using a 7kW wallbox, which offers specifically for the model.
Switching the E-Transit Custom to rear-wheel drive means there's no compromise on either cargo volume or ground clearance – something to keep in mind. The van is extremely practical, even more so than the diesel versions. With a curb weight of 2,255 kg, the van leaves a payload of 970 kg, close to the 1,000 kg capacity of its most obvious competitor, the Opel Vivaro Electric.
We have already mentioned the variety of modifications, which are divided into those with a short and long wheelbase. All of which means there's a Transit Custom for everyone. Even those who need to tow are not neglected, thanks to the towing capacity of 2300 kg. and the built-in drawbar available as an option.
Conclusion and prices
Starting prices of BGN 122,000 with VAT make the E-Transit Custom an expensive option, as the price of the diesel variant starts at BGN 73,000 with VAT. Compared to the competition, however, it is not that expensive. The average user of such buses will be surprised, perhaps, only by the price of the top modification MS-RT, which starts at BGN 127,700 including VAT, but for drivers who want to make an impression, this offer will surely appeal.< /p>
In conclusion, we'll say that the E-Transit Custom is just as well thought out, powerful and enjoyable as the diesel. Given the changing reality, especially in big cities, you think it has every chance of eventually being as successful as its best-selling diesel sibling.
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