Ford Pro has introduced its new Transit Connect compact van, completing the brand’s new-generation line-up of high-productivity electrified Transit commercial vehicles in Europe.
A completely new powertrain line-up for Transit Connect is headlined by the model’s first-ever plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV ) driveline.
The system couples a 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine to a high-voltage battery and electric motor to deliver a combined 150PS and 350Nm of torque through a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
According to Ford, the new Transit Connect PHEV has a targeted electric range of up to 110km 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.
There are also three drive modes which help to optimise energy use: EV Now, for driving using only the electric motor; EV Auto, which balances the EV and petrol motors to best suit driving conditions; and EV Later, to save EV power for later – useful for motorways before reaching a city.
As an alternative to the new PHEV powertrain, Ford says 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 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 3.1m3 or 3.7m3 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.
Ford says the 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 m3 (L1 ) or 3.1 m3 (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.
Additional premium features include a connected digital cockpit and the Transit Connect’s "broadest-ever" suite of advanced driver assistance systems, according to Ford Pro.
Whether a small business or a city-based fleet, Ford Pro says 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.
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.
The Transit Connect will enter production this spring, with initial deliveries of the diesel van scheduled for summer this year as part of a phased launch plan.
The Transit Connect PHEV will join the range before the end of the year, with Kombi models completing the line-up in early 2025.
