Introducing the groundbreaking E-Transit Custom by Ford Pro, now available throughout Europe. This innovation empowers small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to revolutionize their businesses by electrifying their one-tonne vans, thereby achieving unparalleled levels of productivity.
The launch of the E-Transit Custom comes at a crucial time for the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by small businesses. According to an upcoming report from the Centre for Economics and Business Research, the EV share of new van registrations in major markets has increased by more than fivefold from 2018 to 2023. The report also highlights a growing number of low-emission zones, totaling over 350 and spanning more than 80 million people, including all capital cities in the EU.
Developed from the ground up with innovative customer-inspired solutions, the E-Transit Custom combines advanced electric vehicle technology with Ford Pro’s digital and physical platform of software and services. This powerful combination is designed to help businesses reduce the cost of ownership, increase efficiency, and streamline the transition to electric vehicles.
To support the launch of the new electric model, Ford Pro is introducing an integrated home charging solution for businesses. This comprehensive offering includes the installation of a connected wallbox, along with management software and maintenance services. These solutions will be made available across major European markets, reinforcing Ford Pro’s commitment to providing efficient and convenient charging options for electric vehicle owners.
To boost productivity for van-dependent businesses, which contributed around €1 trillion to the EU and UK economy last year, the electric version of Europe’s best-selling one-tonne van is equipped with cutting-edge features tailored specifically for SMEs. These include standard 5G connectivity and ingenious elements like the one-of-a-kind tilting steering wheel.
The highly efficient electric powertrain provides an impressive driving range of up to 209 miles (337km)1, making it perfect for long journeys. Additionally, it offers the convenience of two-year unlimited distance service intervals, resulting in significant cost savings for owners. With its no-compromise load carrying capability, this vehicle can handle payloads of up to 1,011kg, offering exceptional versatility. Furthermore, it boasts a lower load floor with improved access, making it easier to load and unload items. Finally, its class-leading towing capacity of 2,300kg ensures that you can confidently tow heavy loads without any issues.
“Small businesses form the cornerstone of Europe’s economy and are vital to our communities. Many of these businesses have become dependent on Ford vans. For over half a century, we have been dedicated to serving these customers. Their valuable feedback has guided us in creating electric, plug-in hybrid, and diesel vans to meet the needs of customers across various trades and locations. In addition, we have developed support services aimed at enabling small businesses, without a fleet manager, to achieve significant fleet-level productivity. These efforts underline our commitment to empowering small businesses and driving economic growth across Europe,” commented Hans Schep, Ford Pro’s general manager for Europe.
E-Transit Custom is now in production at Ford Otosan’s advanced Yeniköy Assembly Plant in Turkey and is already available for ordering. This new model is a valuable addition to Ford Pro’s electric van lineup in Europe, which includes the successful E-Transit. Notably, the E-Transit outsold its closest competitor by over five to one last year, solidifying its position as the leader in its segment. Furthermore, the introduction of the E-Transit Courier, a compact van, is scheduled for 2025.
High-performance electric powertrain
Every E-Transit Custom comes equipped with a 64kWh (usable) battery that provides a remarkable maximum driving range of up to 209 miles. What makes the E-Transit Custom truly groundbreaking is its utilization of vapour-injected heat pump technology to efficiently heat and cool the cabin. This cutting-edge system is installed in all vehicles as a standard feature, ensuring enhanced energy efficiency and an optimized driving range. Additionally, the E-Transit Custom boasts regenerative braking, enabling one-pedal driving for a smoother urban driving experience and improved overall efficiency. To maximize loadspace and reduce weight and complexity, the drive motor is directly fitted to the rear floor, rotated 90 degrees. Customers have the option to choose between power outputs of 100kW or 160kW (135PS or 217PS), based on their specific requirements. Regardless of the choice, both options offer an impressive and class-leading 415Nm of torque. For those seeking even greater power, the exclusive E-Transit Custom MS-RT model features a more robust 210kW motor.
The electric driving range reaches an impressive 209 miles (337km). Achieving a full charge with the efficient 11kW Ford Pro Home Charger takes a mere 6.7 hours. However, customers seeking a quicker charge can opt for the convenience of a 125kW DC charger, which can charge their vehicle from 10-80% in approximately 39 minutes. In fact, in laboratory testing, a short 10-minute charge was able to add a remarkable 50 miles (82km) of range to the battery.nge.
The electric drivetrain of the E-Transit Custom ensures an outstanding towing capacity of up to 2,300kg, making it the leader in its class. This means that customers who need to tow heavier weights in low-emission zones now have an opportunity to replace their diesel vehicles with the E-Transit Custom. No other all-electric one-tonne van can fulfill these roles, making the E-Transit Custom truly exceptional.
The battery is integrated into the load floor above the sill flange, eliminating the necessity for separate crash structures. This innovative approach optimizes space and weight efficiency by “shrink-wrapping” other underbody components around the battery.
Just like on the larger E-Transit, customers have the option to customize their vehicle with the 2.3kW Pro Power Onboard system. This innovative system allows you to conveniently power electric tools and external lights required for any job.
Ford Pro anticipates that the E-Transit Custom will provide reduced operating costs in comparison to an equivalent diesel vehicle, with potential savings of up to 40 per cent in servicing expenses. This is made possible by a two-year, unlimited distance service interval, along with an eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty that covers all high-voltage components, offering complete peace of mind.
Engineered for optimal efficiency
Ford has developed the E-Transit Custom by engaging extensively with customers, including numerous SMEs, to determine the essential features and capabilities the new vehicle should offer. The groundbreaking architecture forms the foundation for a heightened level of productivity, incorporating exceptional features such as:
- A lower load floor, class-leading side door aperture and new side step for easy and efficient loading.
- Overall height reduced to under two metres on most models for improved access to height-restricted areas.
- Semi-trailing arm independent rear suspension for enhanced traction, handling, and steering precision in diverse driving conditions.
-Creative solutions aimed at enhancing the cab’s productivity and comfort during long shifts include:
- Adjustable steering column with ergonomic controls
- Efficient Delivery Assistance technology
- Re-positioned front wheels and strut towers to optimize cabin space and enable easier access between compartments
- Innovative dashboard storage area designed to accommodate a laptop or A4 file with a roof-mounted passenger airbag
As security of their vehicle, tools, and loads is critical to SMEs, Ford Pro is introducing factory-fitted tamper-proof locking systems to enhance security without the cost and downtime of aftermarket fitment.
Cutting-edge technology and software
Each E-Transit Custom comes equipped with a user-friendly 13-inch landscape touchscreen that is conveniently positioned for the driver. This remarkable feature is enhanced by Ford’s cutting-edge SYNC communication and infotainment system, which is bolstered by a powerful 5G modem for seamless connectivity to the Ford Pro tech stack. But the advantages don’t stop there. We’ve also integrated Alexa Built-in into our vehicles, allowing drivers to easily make phone calls and even complete purchases on Amazon.com using simple voice commands. Stay productive on the go with the incredible technology offered by the E-Transit Custom!
More than 30 separate modules on the E-Transit Custom are capable of receiving wireless software updates. These updates can enhance vehicle performance, deliver quality upgrades, update existing features, and add all-new functions and capabilities. Most updates are completed in under two minutes and can be scheduled to avoid downtime.
Many businesses require specialized converted features such as refrigeration units or additional lighting. Ford Pro’s innovative Vehicle Integration System streamlines this process, making it faster and simpler. Not only does it save valuable time, but it also ensures a more reliable vehicle – a perfect solution for SMEs that may lack the expertise or resources to handle conversions independently. With a vast network of approximately 200 approved Ford Pro Converters in Europe, customers can enjoy a wide range of options, from off-the-shelf conversions to fully tailored solutions, all backed by factory-level support. By choosing Ford Pro, businesses can trust that their vehicles will be transformed into efficient and customized assets, ready to meet their specific needs.
An expanded range of models
As part of the most comprehensive Transit Custom range ever, E-Transit Custom operators can specify L1 or L2 vehicle lengths and a wide range of bodystyles to support any business use case:
- Panel van, with load volumes up to 6.8m3 and an impressive payload capacity of up to 1,011kg
- Double-cab-in-van, with a three-seat second row and a secure partition
- Kombi, offering maximum versatility for cargo and up to eight passenger seats
- MultiCab, Operators can choose from a wide range of configurations to suit their specific needs from the four-strong line-up:
- Trend, offers a perfect blend of functional, hard-working ability with sophisticated technologies
- Limited, adds 16-inch alloy wheels, body-colour exterior details and full loadspace trim
- Sport, luxurious cabin features and amenities
- MS-RT, with rally-inspired design elements including spoilers, side skirts, a diffuser, and 19-inch alloy wheels
For small businesses looking to embrace electrification but with use cases unsuitable for full electric vehicles, Ford Pro offers the Transit Custom PHEV. This vehicle provides pure-electric driving capability for city centers and petrol power for extended highway trips. The new powertrain is akin to the one used in the Ford Kuga Plug-In Hybrid, Europe’s top-selling PHEV for the past three years. It combines a 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle petrol engine with an 11.8kWh (usable) battery, delivering 233PS, a pure-electric driving range of up to 34 miles (56km), and Pro Power Onboard.
The initial E-Transit Custom models are scheduled to arrive at dealerships in chosen markets later this summer, with all EU markets to follow in 2025.
