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First Drive: 2022 Ford E-Transit electrifies the work van for modern business needs

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The 2022 Ford E-Transit marks a significant milestone in the commercial vehicle market as one of the first fully electric cargo vans offered by a major automaker. Designed to meet the needs of businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining productivity, the E-Transit combines Ford’s decades of experience in the commercial vehicle sector with the benefits of electric propulsion. After taking it for a drive, it’s clear that the E-Transit is set to become a game-changer for fleet operators and small business owners alike.

Design and Utility: Familiar Form, Electric Heart

At first glance, the E-Transit closely resembles its gasoline-powered counterpart, the Ford Transit. This is intentional, as Ford has designed the E-Transit to provide a seamless transition for businesses accustomed to traditional vans. The E-Transit retains the same versatile cargo space, available in multiple configurations including three roof heights and three body lengths, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of various industries.

Inside, the E-Transit offers a functional and ergonomic cabin designed with the driver in mind. The layout is straightforward, with easy-to-reach controls and ample storage for tools, paperwork, and personal items. The cargo area is vast and easily accessible, with up to 487.3 cubic feet of cargo space in the largest configuration, making it suitable for a wide range of commercial applications.

Performance and Range: Built for the Job

The 2022 Ford E-Transit is powered by an electric motor that delivers 266 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, driving the rear wheels. This setup provides more than enough power for urban deliveries and other tasks typically required of a commercial van. The instant torque from the electric motor ensures that the E-Transit feels responsive, even when fully loaded, making it well-suited for stop-and-go city driving.

One of the most important considerations for any electric vehicle, especially a commercial one, is range. The E-Transit is equipped with a 68 kWh battery that offers an estimated range of 126 miles on a full charge in the low-roof cargo van configuration. While this range might seem modest compared to passenger EVs, it’s important to remember that the E-Transit is designed for short, urban routes where frequent stops are common. For many businesses, this range will be sufficient for a full day’s work, particularly when paired with overnight charging.

Charging and Efficiency: Keeping You on the Road

Ford has equipped the E-Transit with versatile charging options to fit various business needs. The van supports both AC Level 2 and DC fast charging. Using a 115 kW DC fast charger, the E-Transit can recharge from 15% to 80% in about 34 minutes, allowing for quick top-ups during the workday. For businesses that prefer overnight charging, the E-Transit can be fully charged in roughly eight hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger, making it ready for a full day of work by morning.

Efficiency is another key benefit of the E-Transit. With fewer moving parts than a traditional internal combustion engine, the E-Transit requires less maintenance, which translates to lower operating costs. Ford estimates that the E-Transit’s scheduled maintenance costs are 40% lower over eight years compared to a gas-powered Transit, providing significant savings for businesses over the long term.

Technology and Connectivity: Smart Solutions for Business

The E-Transit is not just about electrification; it’s also about bringing advanced technology to the commercial vehicle market. The van comes equipped with Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system, displayed on a 12-inch touchscreen that provides access to navigation, vehicle settings, and fleet management tools. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring that drivers can stay connected and focused on the road.

For fleet operators, the E-Transit offers a suite of telematics solutions designed to improve efficiency and productivity. Ford’s connected services allow managers to monitor vehicle health, track location, and optimize routes in real-time, helping to reduce downtime and improve overall fleet performance.

Driving Experience: Comfort and Control

Behind the wheel, the E-Transit is surprisingly easy to drive, with a quiet and refined ride that is a marked departure from the noise and vibrations typical of traditional work vans. The lack of engine noise, combined with the electric motor’s smooth power delivery, creates a comfortable driving environment that reduces fatigue on long shifts.

The van’s suspension is tuned to handle the weight of a full load, providing a stable and controlled ride even when the cargo area is fully utilized. The low center of gravity, due to the battery placement, enhances stability and handling, making the E-Transit feel secure on the road, even in tight urban environments.

Conclusion: A Practical Solution for Modern Business

The 2022 Ford E-Transit is a compelling option for businesses looking to embrace electric vehicles without sacrificing capability or practicality. With its familiar design, robust performance, and smart technology, the E-Transit provides a smooth transition to electrification for businesses of all sizes. Its efficient operation, lower maintenance costs, and environmentally friendly credentials make it a forward-thinking choice for fleet operators who want to stay ahead of the curve.

As the commercial vehicle market increasingly shifts towards sustainability, the Ford E-Transit is poised to play a significant role in this transition, offering a practical and reliable solution that meets the demands of modern business while contributing to a cleaner future.

  • Chad Kirchner

    Chad is the Editor-in-Chief and founder of Destination Charged. He has nearly 15 years of experience in the automotive industry, working for a variety of publications in both print and online. He was also the co-founder of EV Pulse, another site devoted to electrification in automotive.

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