Ford Transit Hybrid Prototype
We helped Ford create the first Transit PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). We were responsible for the integration of the hybrid powertrain systems into an existing Transit platform without any modifications to the engine bay or load capacity.
THE CHALLENGE
Commercial vehicles make 280,000 journeys every weekday in London alone, travelling 13 million km (8 million miles), representing 75% of peak freight traffic. Tighter emissions controls planned by London (ULEZ) and other European city authorities meant Ford needed sustainable, practical solutions to convince customers to switch before their competitors did.
WHAT WE DID
We designed and built 20 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Transit vans for a 12-month trial with real world customers. To retain end users’ productivity, existing Transit vans were converted without compromising load capacity or engine bay volume. This would allow Ford to introduce the technology without major model redesigns and the costs associated.
THE RESULTS
20 vans were produced in just 18 months – half the time it would have taken Ford themselves. The prototypes proved to Ford and their customers it could meet air quality goals and developed critical technology learning for production models. Enhancements included increased motor performance, optimised operating strategies, and revised displays to educate drivers in achieving maximum electric regeneration.
This trial is the first time Ford has given such early prototype vehicles to customers, and we’ve been able to incorporate their feedback directly into the production van. The response has been overwhelmingly positive – operators don’t want to give them back.
MARK HARVEY, DIRECTOR, FORD EUROPE
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