The fully electric Ford E-Transit van and converted chassis cab models are to start trials in Europe shortly ahead of their launch in spring 2022.

The real-world testing will give insights into how fleets are using the fully electric E-Transit van in a variety of operating scenarios

The prototype vehicles will join customer fleets covering the supermarket, home delivery, postal services and utilities sectors across Germany, Norway and the UK.

The real-world testing will give insights into how fleets are using the van in a variety of operating scenarios. This will help to enhance the final production vehicle, which is expected to bring a range of up to 217 miles (350km) and 272hp of power, supported by range-enhancing technologies including Eco Mode and Scheduled Pre-Conditioning. It’s also predicted to bring a total cost of ownership around 40% lower compared with internal combustion engine-equipped models.

“Real-world trials are an important step on our journey to deliver the all-electric E‑Transit and will give us an even better understanding of how to help customers across different industries enhance their productivity using zero-emission power,” said Andrew Mottram, E-Transit chief programme engineer, commercial vehicles, Ford of Europe.

Ford added that the data from the trials will be used to help refine E‑Transit’s next-gen connected vehicle technology and range management features to offer an optimised operating experience for customers.

The prototype vehicles taking part in the trial include E-Transit van and chassis cab variants with conversions including refrigerated bodies, box vans, dropsides and interior racking.

The production vehicle will launch with a variety of body, length, roof height and GVM options from launch, giving 25 possible variants.

It will also feature the same load area as diesel-powered Transit models to enable simple conversions and to allow Transit operators to reuse existing racking with the all-electric van. Anticipated payload is up to 1,616kg for vans and up to 1,967kg for chassis cab models.

The E-Transit will also feature a ProPower Onboard system that delivers up to 2.3kW through standard plugs to power conversions and equipment in the cab and load area.

Onboard tech includes Ford’s new SYNC 4 infotainment tech including an easy-to-use 12-inch screen and available cloud-connected navigation, enhanced through automatic wireless Software Updates.