Ford has announced a new entry-level electric van for urban use called the Ford Transit City.
The commercial vehicle offers a stripped-down alternative to the existing E-Transit Custom. It’s designed to deliver affordability while maintaining practicality for businesses operating in city environments.
The Transit City shares similar dimensions with the E-Transit Custom but represents an entirely different vehicle. Ford built it using a dedicated EV platform from Chinese partner Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC).
This partnership allowed Ford to develop the van with what the company calls “laser-sharp focus on maximising efficiency and minimising cost.”
Three Body Styles Available
The Transit City will come in just three configurations – L1H1, L2H2 and chassis cab versions.
The L2H2 variant delivers impressive cargo capacity despite the entry-level positioning. It features a load length exceeding three meters and accommodates three Euro pallets with up to 8.5 cubic meters of cargo volume.
Payload reaches up to 1,275kg depending on the variant. Ford hasn’t provided towing specifications – reflecting the van’s city-focused design.
Single Powertrain Option
Ford keeps costs down by offering one powertrain choice. The setup includes a 148bhp front-mounted motor paired with a 56kWh LFP battery.
The company says this configuration delivers up to 158 miles of range. Ford claims this figure represents twice the daily average distance covered by vans in European cities.
DC charging peaks at 87kW with average power of 67kW. This allows 10-80% charging in 33 minutes or adds 30 miles in 10 minutes. AC charging is capped at 11kW – unlike Ford’s premium models.
Ford positions the Transit City as a cost-effective solution for last-mile delivery operators, utility companies, builders and other businesses requiring zero-emission urban transport.
The company estimates operating costs could be 40% lower than equivalent diesel vans. Ford says the vehicle underwent “torture testing” to ensure high-usage components like doors and the driver’s seat withstand demanding commercial use.
Standard Features and Timing
Standard equipment includes heated driver’s seat, keyless start, front and rear parking sensors, reversing camera, and Android and Apple mirroring capabilities.
Orders are expected to open before summer with first deliveries scheduled for late 2024.
Ford hasn’t confirmed UK pricing yet. Industry observers expect it to slot between the smaller £27,000 E-Transit Courier and the £43,000 E-Transit Custom.
