Ford has unveiled the latest version of its Transit Connect, which will also be available for the first time as a plug-in hybrid offering a range of 68 miles on pure electric power.
This is the third outing for the Transit Connect model and heralds the completion of the electrified Ford commercial vehicle line-up, with every model in the range now available as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or pure electric version.
Modern Interior
The new release gave Ford the perfect opportunity to refresh the cabin of the Transit Connect, and not before time. Gone is the outdated last-gen-car look, reinvigorated with a host of new technology and the instantly noticeable 10.0-inch infotainment screen at the dashboard's centre.
While there is a built-in navigation system, Ford has embraced connectivity, including wireless phone charging as well as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, so users can easily use the systems they favour. DAB radio and USB connections are standard, too, with the USB-C point capable of charging at a rate of up to 45 watts, so you can keep a laptop topped up if needed.
There is plenty of equipment as standard across the range, starting with entry-level Trend trim, moving up to Limited and top-level Active. Trend, likely to be popular with fleet buyers, will feel a little sparse compared to the higher spec models, which will boast 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and a handy work surface built into the passenger seat back.
Across all models, the safety equipment includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, evasive steer assistance, pre-collision assist and intersection assist. Higher-spec models benefit from the addition of blind spot warning, cross-traffic alert, reversing camera and exit warning to help prevent potential door-related incidents with cyclists and other road users.
Cargo Carrier
The new Transit Connect will come in several guises, with two different lengths of panel van available. These will both see an increase in space, with cargo volume moving to 3.1m3 or 3.7m3 for the short and long-wheelbase models, respectively. Maximum payload stands at 820kg, with a 1,500kg towing limit.
Adding a battery pack to the hybrid model will see the payload eaten into a little, at 770kg, although the cargo volume remains unchanged. The towing capacity also suffers slightly, down by 100kg compared to the diesel model, at 1,400kg.
There’s a five-seater Kombi model with an innovative double-cab-in-van option for increased flexibility. The rear seats can be folded away to increase the cargo area capacity when needed, extending to 2.5m3 or 3.1m3 (for the short and long wheelbase models) while the seats are folded. We had a sneak preview last month, and can confirm that switching from passenger van to cargo carrier is a simple job that only needs a single pair of hands. When the seats are in position, there’s plenty of room for three passengers, and while they do take up a little of the cargo space, there is still room for a couple of Euro pallets onboard.
Diesel and Plug-in Petrol Hybrid Power
At launch, the Transit Connect will be available with a 2.0-litre diesel engine, and the plug-in hybrid version will be available by the end of 2024, but there are no plans for a pure electric version.
The diesel model will have two power output options, 102hp and 122hp, both with a six-speed manual gearbox. 122hp models will have the option to swap out the six-speed manual for a seven-speed automatic gearbox.
Some territories (although not the UK) will have the option of an intelligent all-wheel drive version, adding enhanced traction for changing weather conditions.
The forthcoming plug-in hybrid variant will couple a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and battery pack, which will produce 150hp and 350Nm of torque, all via a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Ford hasn’t confirmed the size of the battery pack that will be attached, but the electric range is expected to be around 68 miles, and it will be able to charge at rates of up to 50kW if needed.
Ford Pro Support
Fleet customers and businesses running the new Transit Connect will be supported by Ford Pro. The model is built around the Volkswagen Caddy, so Ford has achieved connectivity with Ford Pro Telematics software using a plug-in device.
Ford Pro services provide access to maintenance support, such as mobile servicing capability that can cover 70% of maintenance and repairs at a time and location convenient to the customer, keeping downtime to a minimum.
For specialist needs, 200 partners accredited to the Ford Pro Converter network across Europe will be able to offer conversions, including refrigeration and racking. Each centre works with technical support and approval of Ford Pro Special Vehicles, and customers benefit from aftersales care equivalent to that of a factory Ford Pro vehicle.
How much will it cost?
Production of the Transit Connect starts in spring 2024, with the van being built in Volkswagen’s plant in Poznan, Poland. First deliveries of the diesel panel van models will begin in the summer, with the plug-in hybrid joining the range before the end of the year. The five-seater Kombi model will complete the line-up in early 2025.
Ford hasn’t released pricing yet, but the model is expected to sit almost perfectly between the Courier and Custom ranges.
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