Ford’s Special Vehicles unit has launched the Explorer van, a commercial conversion of its electric SUV that delivers up to 373 miles of range starting at £40,262.50.
The new vehicle addresses fleet customer demand for a car-like alternative to Ford’s larger E-Transit van. Ford Pro Special Vehicles developed the conversion at its Dagenham Conversion Centre in Essex.
Ford removed the rear seats and installed a permanent copolymer bulkhead separating the front cabin from the cargo area. The rear door glass has been panelled off to prevent damage during commercial use.
The Explorer van offers 1,235 litres of rear storage space with a 650kg maximum payload. A flat floor accommodates larger items, while adjustable dividers and lashing points secure smaller cargo.
Four Option Packages Available
Ford offers targeted equipment packages depending on the vehicle’s intended use. The Wheel Pack includes 19-inch black steel wheels, fluorescent wheel nut indicators, and all-weather tyres.
The Welfare Pack adds safety equipment – a first aid kit plus eye-washing and hand sanitiser stations.
For utility work, the Utility Pack provides frunk storage, roof rack, rear window security mesh, seat covers, and front rubber floor mats. The Commercial Pack targets high-risk environments with an amber light bar, tailgate work lamp, and tailgate beacons.
Two Powertrain Options
The Explorer van comes in rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. The RWD single-motor produces 282bhp with a one-tonne towing capacity.
The AWD twin-motor variant delivers 335bhp and can tow up to 1.2 tonnes.
Ford reports the maximum range of 373 miles applies to the RWD version carrying minimum payload. Range figures for the more powerful AWD model haven’t been confirmed yet.
The cabin retains most features from the passenger Explorer, including the 14.6-inch vertical touchscreen. Storage options include a 17-litre MegaConsole bin and a hidden locker for valuables.
Growing Electric Van Market
The Explorer joins several recent electric van conversions targeting commercial fleets. Volvo introduced its EX30 Cargo minivan last month, while Renault unveiled a concept van version of its Twingo for French energy provider EDF.
Ford’s approach differs by converting an existing passenger vehicle platform rather than designing a purpose-built commercial vehicle from scratch.
The Explorer van competes in the smaller commercial vehicle segment – offering car-like driving characteristics with van functionality for businesses that don’t require the larger E-Transit’s capacity.
