Is it time you considered plugging into battery electric? The Ford E-Transit could well make that decision a lot easier for you.
If you want an indication of just how committed manufacturers are to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) then consider that Ford has pledged a global investment of $50 billion in the electrification of its product line-up through to 2026.
As we move into a brave new world of zero emissions transport, that eyewatering amount will be worth every penny if the Ford Transit maintains its pole position in the race for UK commercial vehicle sales. If the E-Transit is a sign of things to come, then they have every chance of doing just that.
Whilst some manufacturers have adapted existing internal combustion engine products the E-Transit has been significantly redesigned to make the most of its electric powertrain. Added to that are some very trade friendly features, not least the optional Pro Power Onboard function that delivers 2.3kW of power from plug sockets in the cargo area. That means you can easily run mains powered tools from it, charge your cordless equipment or a laptop.
So, what’s it like to live with a Ford E-Transit? We recently had the opportunity to do just that and the first thing to report is that this is a very pleasant environment for a driver. Once ensconced in your heated seat, the most noticeable feature is a 12in. touchscreen that offers a range of driving aids, alongside Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, sat nav, voice recognition and much more. The driving position is commanding, and you get all the benefits of battery power, not least low noise, no gears and plenty of acceleration from a standing start. Indeed, the two motors available – 135kW and the larger 198kW – will provide plenty of poke.
Put simply, electric vehicles are very nice to drive – and this is a particularly good example. Added to that is all the practicality you can expect from a Ford Transit with the payload and functional features that has made the Transit the dominant force in LCVs for many decades. There’s a cargo weight of up to 1,745kg, in fact, and in the panel variant there’s three heights and two lengths. Throw in a double cab or chassis option for tippers and dropsides and the opportunity to configure a vehicle to your exact trade needs is very much a reality. With a van the largest investment you are likely to make in your business it is worth thinking long and hard about exactly how you are going to use it, now and in the future, and Ford is on hand to make sure you make the right choice.
Of course, those who are yet to convert to a lithium-ion powertrain will inevitably debate the issue of range and the Ford E-Transit’s headline figure is 196miles at its maximum. That compares very favourably with its peers but, as with any electric vehicle, you need to consider what you’re carrying. Heavy loads will have a detrimental effect on the available distance. BEVs are the direct opposite of diesels in that they are more efficient in urban settings than at higher speeds on motorways, whilst temperature equally has an impact, and you will lose some charge on colder days. Moreover, if you’re in the habit of towing a trailer with plant or machinery of any weight best look away now because this is not an electric van’s forte.
Nonetheless, there is a well-documented tendency amongst drivers to overestimate mileage and, if you’re a local jobbing builder working in a relatively compact catchment area, it should be plenty, provided you have the facility to charge at home. DC fast charging will get you up to 80% battery charge in under ½ an hour. In addition, the Ford Pro service is an entire suite of support services that includes the installation of an EV Home Charger (for a price) – as well as a range of finance options and a telematics system that allows even those with small fleets to access useful data on real world performance, location and vehicle health.
Eco is one of three driving modes, and is designed to help you get the most out of the battery. There’s also a Normal setting, with Slippery coming into play in icy or wet conditions. The electric motor is actually between the rear wheels on this van, and with the batteries under the cargo area floor, it does provide decent grip and handling, even without a load on the back.
There are also some clever safety features that could be your saviour on site. A rear parking camera is, for example, complemented by the option of Rear Brake Assist, where sensors automatically detect an obstacle when you’re reversing, and the brakes are applied.
Whilst the Ford E-Transit is not as expensive as some of its competitors a starting price that’s north of £48,000 is still significantly more than a diesel. With inherently fewer moving parts in an EV you can factor reduced maintenance costs into that figure. Charging is cheaper than filling up at a pump, especially with a reduced energy tariff. There are government grants available that will reduce the initial outlay, and you can access any of the ultra-low emission zones that are on the march across our towns and cities completely free of charge.
For further information on the Ford E-Transit visit Ford E-Transit: The Electric Van For Your Business | Ford UK.
