Ford is claiming to be the first manufacturer to deliver plug-in hybrid technology for zero-emission driving capability to the one-tonne van segment, with the new Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid. The Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid starts from £39,145 excluding VAT for Leader trim; £40,595 for Trend and £42,950 for Limited.

The Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid van can be charged with mains electricity for a pure electric driving range of up to 35 miles – contributing to reduced local emissions and allowing the vehicle to enter the growing number of ultra-low-emission vehicle zones being introduced across Europe.

Featuring a hybrid architecture, the Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid’s front wheels are driven exclusively by a 92.9kW electric motor powered by a 13.6kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Ford’s 1.0‑litre EcoBoost petrol engine acts as a range extender for total driving range exceeding 310 miles, 91.7mpg fuel efficiency and 60g/km CO₂ emissions.

A net payload of 1,130kg and unchanged load volume of 6.0m³ are facilitated by careful packaging of the compact battery pack beneath the floor. The battery pack is covered by a standard eight-year/100,000-mile warranty.

“Our customers want electrified vehicles, but we understand that they may have concerns about infrastructure and range. Our connected Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid delivers productivity with no compromises, offering the capability to drive on zero-emission electric power with the freedom to make longer journeys,” said Ian Porter, chief programme engineer, Transit Custom, Ford of Europe.

FordPass Connect on-board modem technology features as standard, enabling operators to maximise vehicle efficiency and utilisation. Introduced from spring 2020 and available for retro-fitment to earlier vehicles, a new Geofencing module will be able to automatically switch the vehicle to zero-emission driving EV Now mode when entering a low-emission zone. The technology will help ensure businesses comply with regulations and avoid charges or penalties.

Ford is also introducing a new Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid eight-seat people-mover, utilising the same advanced powertrain technology. Offered in upscale Titanium specification, the new eight-seater Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid has been “engineered to provide superior levels of comfort, with exceptional refinement for occupants particularly when running in electric-only driving mode”.

“Uniquely innovative and flexible, the new Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid can give owners and operators the advantage of being able to drive in ultra-low-emissions zones,” Porter said. “Whether delivering executive shuttle services or ferrying large families, the Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid will offer a relaxing and refined environment for passengers, while also contributing to improved local air quality in busy urban environments.”