The Ford E-Transit Custom is set to shake up the UK’s commercial vehicle market. With the Transit Custom already holding the title as the UK’s best-selling van, its electric counterpart has all the ingredients to become the go-to choice for businesses looking to transition to zero-emission transport.
We visited Busseys Ford Transit Centre in Norwich to take a closer look at this electric van and explore its features, performance, and practicality. Here’s everything you need to know about Ford’s next-generation workhorse.
Ford E-Transit Custom Performance, Power, and Range
The E-Transit Custom delivers strong efficiency and power, designed to make the switch to electric as seamless as possible for businesses. With a 64kWh battery, it offers an official range of up to 209 miles, which is competitive in the medium electric van segment.
Two power options are available:
- 134bhp (standard model) – Perfect for most commercial applications
- 215bhp (available on Limited and Sport trims) – Offers a slight performance boost
- MS-RT version (281bhp) – A high-performance model designed for those who want a sporty edge
Ford’s instant torque delivery makes city driving and stop-start traffic effortless, while the rear-wheel-drive setup provides excellent traction when carrying heavy loads.
With a maximum speed of 73 mph, the E-Transit Custom is fine for motorway driving, while its regenerative braking system helps optimise efficiency, extending real-world range.
Ford E-Transit Custom Charging and Running Costs
Keeping your E-Transit Custom on the road is easy, thanks to fast-charging capabilities:
- DC Rapid Charging (125kW): 10-80% in just 41 minutes
- 10-minute rapid charge adds 50 miles of range
- Home/Depot Charging (7.4kW): Full charge in just over 11 hours
This makes it a highly practical option for fleet operators, particularly those with access to overnight depot charging. Running costs are significantly lower than a diesel alternative, with electricity being cheaper than fuel and lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts.
Government incentives, such as the Plug-in Van Grant, or Salary Sacrifice Scheme can be used to further bring the overall cost of ownership down for businesses.
Load Capacity and Practicality
Despite its electric powertrain, the E-Transit Custom maintains class-leading practicality, with zero compromises on cargo space compared to its diesel counterpart.
- Load Length (L1): 2,602mm (longer than most rivals)
- Load Length (L2): 3,002mm (extended version)
- Load Volume: Up to 5.8 cubic metres
- Maximum Payload: 1,062kg (one of the best in its class)
- Towing Capacity: 2.3 tonnes
For businesses needing versatility, Ford offers multiple configurations, including:
- Panel Van (L1 & L2) – Ideal for deliveries and tradespeople
- Crew Van (5-seater with a full load bay) – Great for transporting both people and cargo
- Chassis Cab – A base model for custom conversions (e.g., tipper, refrigerated van)
- MS-RT Model – A sporty version with aggressive styling
Access to the cargo area is provided by a single sliding side door and rear swing-out doors. While competitors like the Vauxhall Vivaro Electric offer dual sliding doors, the E-Transit Custom makes up for it with superior load length and overall space.
A Mobile Office on Wheels
Ford understands that vans aren’t just for transport—they’re often used as mobile offices. The E-Transit Custom’s cabin has been designed with this in mind, featuring:
- Tilting Steering Wheel – Converts into a table for laptops or lunch breaks
- Fold-Down Work Table – Hidden in the centre passenger seat
- Under-Seat Storage – Spacious enough for a laptop and documents
- 13-inch SYNC 4 Touchscreen – Features Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Ford’s advanced infotainment system
- Digital Instrument Cluster – Provides real-time driving and efficiency data
The Delivery Assist feature is particularly useful for last-mile couriers, automating tasks such as parking brake activation, engine shut-off, and hazard lights—saving drivers valuable time on every stop.
Driving Modes for Every Situation
The E-Transit Custom offers six drive modes tailored to different working conditions:
- Normal – Balanced performance for everyday driving
- Eco – Extends range by optimising energy use
- Sport – Enhances throttle response for a more dynamic drive
- Slippery Road – Improves grip in wet or icy conditions
- Tow/Haul – Ideal for heavy payloads and towing
- Trail – For off-road work environments
These driving modes help ensure optimal performance whether you’re navigating city streets, motorways, or muddy construction sites.
Where Can I Test Drive the Ford E-Transit Custom?
Interested in making the switch to electric commercial vehicles? You can test drive the Ford E-Transit Custom at Busseys Ford Transit Centre. Their team can guide you through the different models, charging options, and how the E-Transit Custom could benefit your business.
- Book A Test Drive With Busseys
- Expert Guidance from the Busseys Team
- Competitive Financing Options
Ford E-Transit Custom: The Best Electric Van on the Market?
The Ford E-Transit Custom is probably the most advanced electric van available today. It offers class-leading cargo space, impressive range, and a high-tech cabin, making it an excellent choice for businesses looking to cut costs and emissions.
What We Like About the Ford E-Transit Custom
- Class-leading practicality – No compromise on load space
- Strong range (up to 209 miles) – Outperforms many competitors
- Fast charging (10 mins for 50 miles) – Keeps you on the road longer
- Mobile office features – Tilting steering wheel & work tables
- Advanced tech & safety – SYNC 4 infotainment, driver assistance systems
Key Specs at a Glance:
- Price: From £44,899
- Range: Up to 209 miles
- Charging: 10-80% in 41 minutes (DC fast charge)
- Maximum Payload: 1,062kg
- Towing Capacity: 2.3 tonnes
- Test Drive Location: Busseys Ford Transit Centre.
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John is the Editor and Spokesperson for Electric Car Guide.
With over 20 years of writing experience, he has written for titles such as City AM, FE News and NerdWallet.com, covering various automotive and personal finance topics.
John’s market commentary has been covered by the likes of The Express, The Independent, Yahoo Finance and The Evening Standard.
