All-electric transit van
An all-electric version of the Ford Transit Connect will debut at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show. The zero-emissions, electric vehicle (EV) version of the small van will be in fleet operators’ hands later this year.
Ford is collaborating with Azure Dynamics Corporation to fit out the Transit Connect Electric with Azure’s Force Drive battery electric powertrain and Johnson Controls-Saft’s lithium-ion battery technology.
In addition to the Transit Connect Electric, Ford plans to bring three more electrified vehicles to market by 2012: the Focus Electric in 2011, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in 2012 and a next-generation hybrid in 2012.
Ford Transit Connect Electric goes into production in late 2010. It is aimed at commercial fleets that travel short-range routes with frequent stop-and-go driving in urban and suburban environments.
The vehicle, which will accelerate at a similar rate as the petrol-powered Transit Connect and will have a top speed of 75mph, has a targeted range of up to 80 miles on a full charge.
Owners will have the option of recharging the vehicle with either a standard 120V outlet or a 240V charge station installed at the user’s base of operations for recharging in six to eight hours. A transportable cord that works with both types of outlets will be available for recharging at both kinds of locations.
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