FORD PRO REVEALS THE NEW TRANSIT CONNECT PHEV

FORD PRO REVEALS THE NEW TRANSIT CONNECT PHEV, THE NEW COMPACT VAN

Ford Pro reveals the all-new Transit Connect compact van, completing the brand’s new-generation line-up of high-productivity electrified Transit commercial vehicles in Europe.

Advanced, efficient powertrains include the first Transit Connect plug-in hybrid, which offers businesses a generous targeted 68-mile electric range, as well as both AC and DC fast charging capability.

Customers also benefit from enhanced carrying capacity and capability with load volumes up to 3,7 m³, and a transformative new seating concept for Kombi models. Additional premium features include a connected digital cockpit and Transit Connect’s broadest-ever suite of advanced driver assistance systems.

Whether a small business or a city-based fleet, Transit Connect operators can accelerate their productivity through Ford Pro support including software, servicing and flexible finance plans, as well as a dedicated fleet solution for telematics.

«Over the past two years, we’ve electrified the Transit family to help every kind of customer accelerate their productivity and electrify their business. Our all-new Transit Connect is another key step in that mission», said Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro, Europe. «Transit Connect’s new Plug-in Hybrid offering, high-tech interior and support from Ford Pro pack serious hard-working appeal into a stylish and compact body».

As the third generation of Ford Pro’s popular Transit Connect compact van, the all-new model forms part of Ford Pro’s strongest-ever compact van line-up, along with the all-new Transit Courier, and the forthcoming electric E-Transit Courier.

Transit Connect enters production in spring 2024, with initial deliveries of the diesel van scheduled for summer this year as part of a phased launch plan. Transit Connect PHEV will join the range before the end of the year, with Kombi models completing the line-up in early 2025.

Ford Pro’s electrified Transit range in Europe

Transit Connect PHEV is the final piece of Ford Pro electrifying its Transit family in Europe, following the introduction of the segment-leading E-Transit, electric E-Transit Custom – the first electric version of Europe’s best-selling one-tonne van – and the E-Transit Courier. A completely new powertrain line-up for Transit Connect is headlined by the model’s first-ever PHEV driveline.

The system couples a 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine to a high-voltage battery and electric engine to deliver a combined 150PS and 350Nm of torque through a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Maximum payload is 770kg, and maximum trailer weight is 1.400kg.

Transit Connect PHEV has a targeted electric range of up to 68 miles and, in EV mode, can still deliver up to 330Nm of torque for urban load-hauling.

Customers can top up the battery with a 50kW DC fast charger if required, or recharge fully using the onboard 11kW AC charger between shifts.

Three drive modes help to optimise energy use: EV Now, (or driving using only the electric engine), EV Auto (which balances the EV and petrol engines to best suit driving conditions), EV Later (to save EV power for later – useful for highways before reaching a city).

Capable load carrying

Transit Connect is designed to serve a broad range of compact van customer requirements, so Ford Pro offers the model with short- or long-wheelbase options in two-seat Van or five-seat Kombi bodystyles.

The panel van’s new load area design delivers an increased load volume of 3,1m or 3,7m depending on wheelbase choice. Maximum payload is 820kg, and the competitive 1.500kg towing capacity enables customers to tow a wide range of equipment to support their business.

Transit Connect Kombi introduces a revolutionary new flexible seating concept, that enables dual-use customers to quickly and easily switch their vehicle from a comfortable five-seater to a capable work van. The rear seat easily folds forward and upward in seconds to increase the load volume to 2,5 m (L1) or 3,1 m (L2), with L2 models having space for two Euro pallets.

In their folded position, the rear seats form a protective full-height bulkhead, and ensure that front seat occupants benefit from a refined driving experience.

Efficient new powertrain range

As an alternative to the new PHEV powertrain, customers can choose a 2.0-litre EcoBlue turbodiesel engine with two power outputs: a 122PS engine is available with a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission; The 102PS variant is equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox only.

Ford Pro expects highly competitive fuel efficiency up to 58.8mpg to help customers reduce fuel costs. The availability of intelligent all-wheel drive on the all-new Transit Connect will boost appeal to customers in the Nordic and Alpine regions in particular, providing enhanced traction and confidence in challenging weather conditions.

Advanced technology for a premium experience

A 10-inch digital instrument cluster is standard across the range with a configurable main display flanked by secondary vehicle information. This is combined with a 10-inch colour central touchscreen with available Connected Navigation to create a stylish and productive digital cockpit.

Drivers who use a work phone for navigation or to contact customers benefit from wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto mirroring, with wireless device charging on Limited and Active series. Charging larger equipment such as laptops or tools on-the-go is also easy, as USB-C ports in the cab offer up to 45 watts of power.

Offered in combination with a heated steering wheel, customers can also select optional heated front seats certified by leading spinal health group Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V., the Campaign for Healthier Backs. These feature four-way electric lumbar and adjustable extended leg supports for optimum comfort.