2022 Ford E-Transit – Admirable Effort, But More Needed
By Edward A. Sanchez – Nov. 13, 2020
A few years ago, when a lot of EV models had a sub-100-mile range, the term “compliance cars” was coined to connote a minimum effort on part of the OEMs to say they offered an EV model, but the reality is these vehicles had limited functionality or appeal due to their limited range. The era of low-range EVs is fading fast, as 200 miles has become the new, unspoken minimal benchmark for range. While there are few models on the market that fall somewhat short of that standard, almost none are still in the two-digit range. But we’re starting to see EVs go from strictly compact urban hatches to luxury models, sport sedans, crossovers, pickup trucks, and now, commercial vehicles. Ford’s 2022 E-Transit is poised to be a big player in the space. But looking at its specifications, it begs the question: Did Ford go far enough?
Certainly from an output standpoint, the rated 266 hp (198 kW) and 317 lb-ft (430 Nm) is sufficient for Class 2 and 3 delivery and courier duty. However, the target range announced was somewhat disappointing. Depending on configuration, the E-Transit will be capable of between 108-126 miles of range from its 67 kWh battery. While that may be enough for fixed-route delivery, factoring in grade variations, delivery drivers’ notoriously leaden feet, and the added load of cargo, that range seems a little on the slim side for comfort.
The base Ford E-Transit will start below $45,000, making it a realistic purchase for many businesses.
While that may seem like a disappointing range for a battery of that capacity, keep in mind commercial vans are neither lightweight nor especially aerodynamic. By virtue of their mission, cargo vans will never be wonders of sleekness, so the only way to effectively add range is to put in a bigger battery. I feel the minimum battery size for the E-Transit should be 100 kWh. Doing some quick back-of-the-napkin calculations, that should bring the range up to approximately 162-189 miles of range. While not quite to the magic 200-mile mark, that rated range would certainly give me a lot more confidence to be able to complete a daily route, along with some unforeseen detours, without having to get bogged down for several hours to charge.
On the subject of charging, the E-Transit offers the typical J1772 charger plus CCS DC charging. Ford claims with the DC charger, the E-Transit can add up to 30 miles of range in 10 minutes, or 45 miles in 15 minutes. When charging from a 240V outlet, Ford claims 10 miles per charging hour can be added, going to 15 miles per hour with a dedicated Ford Connected Charge station.
Utilizing a 115 kW DC fast charger, the E-Transit will be able to add 30 miles of range in 10 minutes. With a 240V charging setup using the Ford Mobile Charger, expect to add about 10 miles per charging hour. 240V and the Ford Connected Charge Station will yield approximately 15 miles per charging hour.
The E-Transit will be offered in nearly all the configurations and variants the normal Transit is, including three available roof heights, as well as cargo, cutaway, and chassis cab versions. Target starting price is “under $45,000.” The release wasn’t clear whether that starting price was before or after applicable government credits. If it’s before, that could bring the price conceivably under $40,000, at which point, it could be an attractive proposition to some businesses.
Ford was likely weighing a delicate balance between capability and affordability with the E-Transit, and battery technology and economies of scale were probably not quite yet to the point to be able to offer a larger battery at the desired starting price. The E-Transit is a commendable initial effort, however, a longer range would probably make it more attractive and compelling to more customers, even at a slightly higher asking price.
(Images courtesy Ford)
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