Ford has announced it expects to launch an all-electric Transit van in 2021 as part of a wide range of initiatives designed to boost the productivity of its commercial vehicle customers in Europe.
As part of its joint project with StreetScooter, Ford already produces the electric Transit-based StreetScooter Work XL at its plant in Cologne, Gemany. The van is currently used by the German post office service, Deutsche Post DHL.
At its ‘Go Further’ event in Amsterdam, Holland, the manufacturer also unveiled a Tourneo Custom plug-in hybrid eight-seat people carrier that it claimed has a pure electric range of 31 miles. It said this vehicle would go on sale in late 2019.
Ford also announced a new initiative based on its FordPass Connect on-board modem technology targeting 100% vehicle uptime for operators via a usage-based maintenance system supported by real-time data, which aims to tailor maintenance to each individual vehicle rather than relying on fixed service intervals and in tandem previewed the new FordPass Pro app, which it will launch later this year aimed at helping smaller firms and owner drivers to maximise their productivity.
In addition Ford said it plans to double the number of accredited partners in its Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) programme for CV converters to 200 across Europe by 2020.
“Commercial customers need smarter, more integrated solutions, built around a connected business environment,” said Hans Schep, general manager, Commercial Vehicles, Ford of Europe. “Ford provides tough, flexible vehicles with a choice of fuel-efficient and electrified powertrains, and Ford’s inbuilt modem is a game-changer, enabling smart commercial vehicle solutions to help customers to manage their fleets – so they can get on with their business.”