Ford’s popular full-size Transit Van continues to evolve, and this year there’s a new and more environmentally compatible option for commercial buyers. While the conventionally-powered Transit will no doubt represent the bulk of Ford’s van sales for a while yet, it’s new electric 2022 E-Transit will surely find a welcome home with those companies and businesses where its zero-emissions operating parameters are a good fit.
The 2021 Ford E-Transit’s powertrain consists of an underfloor battery delivering energy to an electric motor that drives the rear wheels, delivering 266 horsepower and 317 lb-ft torque. A 67 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is located beneath the van’s floor so it’s out of the way and does not intrude on the E-Transit’s flat load floor. Charging is via a port located in the front grille, making it convenient to pull forward head-in to a charging station. Driving range varies from 108 to 126 miles depending on van configuration.
Three E-Transit Choices
E-Transit is available in Regular, Long, and Extended versions with low, medium, and high roof heights, plus a cab-chassis configuration for those wanting to adapt unique cargo boxes. The vans offer cargo volumes of 246 to 487 cubic feet and payload capacity of 3,240 to 3,800 pounds, depending on configuration. Driving range on battery power also varies between the models from 108 to 126 miles. While typical charging will be via a standard 240-volt Level 2 charging station in about 8 hours, the E-Transit is fast-charge capable and able to charge from 15 to 85 percent charge on a 50 kW charger in 65 minutes, and from 15 to 85 percent in just 34 minutes on a 115 kW DC fast charger.
The driver is placed well forward in the two passenger E-Transit cabin with a large windshield and expansive side glass for maximum visibility. Driver controls include a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, with a large rotary dial for drive mode selection just to the right of the steering column for easy access. Steering is electric-assist for easy maneuvering even when heavily loaded.
E-Transit Upfitting
Ford kept the interior configuration of the E-Transit compatible with traditional engine-powered Transit vans so existing aftermarket cargo racks and accessories should bolt right in. That’s a real plus for current Transit owners desiring a transition to electric. Since the view out the back of a cargo van is limited, the E-Transit comes standard with Reverse Brake Assist, a rear vision obstruction sensing system that will stop the van before it hits objects behind the van while backing up. The system also provides help when backing around obstacles. Moving forward, E-Transit features both Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and pre-collision braking assist.
In addition to delivery duties, the E-Transit is well-suited for construction and other traditional van applications. To that end, there’s an available Pro Power Onboard 2.4 kW electrical system that can be utilized run power tools and other electric needs at the jobsite. Convenient outlets are located just inside the rear doors.
Ford is promising a network of over 2,100 EV-certified dealerships if service is ever needed, something that not all electric vehicle manufacturers can offer. The E-Transit cargo van is now in production and starts at $47,185.