The E-Transit being a working tool doesn’t diminish range anxiety – after all you can’t really plug in on a customer’s drive while on a job. A 64kWh battery delivering a WLTP range of 202 miles. If that’s not enough, charging speeds of up to 125kW is enough to give top up the battery from 15-80% in just 41 minutes – or 8.5 hours using a 7kW wallbox.
Switching the E-Transit Custom to rear-wheel-drive means there has been no compromise between either the load volume or the ground clearance – an important factor for when a twin-motor all-wheel-drive model goes on sale. As a result it’s still just as practical as the diesel.
A chunky kerb weight of 2255kg for the standard van leaves a payload of 970kg, close to the 1000kg capacity of its most obvious rival the Vauxhall Vivaro Electric.
Short and long-wheelbase models, with the promise of other body variants to come, mean that even as an electric there’s an Transit Custom for everyone. Even those that need to tow haven’t been neglected, thanks to a 2,300kg towing capacity.
Starting prices of £43,380 ex VAT make the E-Transit Custom a pricey option when the diesel van starts at £32,350 and an equivalent power and trim model just £2000 more. In comparison to rivals, though, it’s no more expensive than the £43,105 entry-level Vivaro Electric. Your Average Joe will baulk at the MS-RT versions £60,490 price tag but for owner drivers looking to make a statement it will surely find plenty of homes.