One of the US’s giant automobile makers, Ford stated that it will begin its production of an all-electric version of its popular Ford Transit cargo van to cater to the US market. The company’s 2022 model year will be the first, as it sees a promising future in electrification.
Ford is planning to include an all-electric Transit for the European market, the Mustang Mach-E SUV and an electric F-150 truck.
Over the last few years, the company has witnessed a huge surge in its U.S. truck and van fleet sales. It expects that this growth will continue as the US’s e-commerce and ‘last-mile’ delivery increase.
According to Ford, the integrated “smart” features within its electric cargo van could help customers optimize fleet efficiency and reduce waste or improve driver behavior. This fleet can access data, collected through Ford’s telematics system by using an embedded FordPass Connect modem. Also, its feature of 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot can connect up to ten devices. The automaker further adds that these features will allow managers to use Ford’s data tools like live map GPS tracking, geofencing and vehicle diagnostics to see the performance indicators at a glance for vehicle and driver.
“Commercial vehicles are a critical component to its big bet on electrification,” Jim Farley, Chief Operating Officer of Ford said. “As leaders in this space, we are accelerating our plans to create solutions that help businesses run better, starting with our all-electric Transit and F-150. “
Driver assistance and in-vehicle internet will be one of the major focus for Ford.
“The world is heading towards electrified products and fleet customers are asking for them now,” Mr. Farley asserted.
