Ford has taken the wraps off the new Transit Custom, following the recent debut of the fully electric e-Transit sibling. Starting from 2023, the new generation of Ford’s popular light commercial vehicle will be available with EcoBlue diesel, PHEV, and EV powertrains, and a variety of different body styles.
Predictably, the Transit Custom looks very similar to the e-Transit Custom, featuring the same body. The grille however has changed, with horizontal slits and enlarged openings for cooling the engine, accompanied by side intakes on the ICE-only models. Unfortunately, Ford didn’t include a detailed gallery of the six trim levels (Base, Trend, Limited, Active, Trail, and Sport). Still, we can spot some of the trim-specific styling cues from the group shot, including the unpainted bumpers and different headlight graphics of the entry-level Base, the aluminum-style skidplates of the Trail, the extended side skirts of the Sport, and the front-mounted charging port of the PHEV and EV models.
See Also: 2024 Ford E-Transit Custom To Offer 236 Miles Of Range And A “Mobile Office” Option
The Transit Custom is based on an “all-new” architecture, which will be shared with the next VW Transporter. Different bodystyle options include the standard panel van, the double-cab-in-van, the kombi, and the L-shaped bulkhead. The model comes in two lengths and in two roof heights. Later, Ford is expected to introduce the passenger-focused Tourneo Custom, taking the role of a family-friendly minivan.
Inside the cabin, there is a 13-inch touchscreen for the latest SYNC4 infotainment, although it is not specified if this feature is standard across the range or if it is only available in high-end models. We can also see a few always-on touch-sensitive shortcuts under the display. The flat-bottom steering wheel with integrated buttons can tilt, creating a Mobile Office area. All trims feature the Ford Pro platform of software and connected services including the Ford Pro Upfit Integration System which allows digital vehicle conversions through the existing infotainment panel, and the Ford Pro Mobile Service designed to improve uptime.
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The ICE-only model is fitted with an improved version of the EcoBlue diesel engine. It will be offered in different power outputs, starting with 109 hp (81 kW / 110 PS), 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS), 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS), or 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS). Setting aside the standard six-speed manual gearbox that can be combined with an optional mechanical limited-slip differential, the Transit Custom also comes with a new eight-speed automatic and optional all-wheel-drive. According to Ford, the maximum towing capacity of the auto AWD model is 2,500 kg (5,512 pounds).
The plug-in hybrid Transit Custom combines a 2.5-liter petrol engine with an electric motor and a battery, similar to the Ford Kuga / Escape PHEV. Ford didn’t reveal the power output but we guess it will be close to the SUVs’ 222 hp (165 kW / 225 PS). The 11.8 kWh battery (usable capacity) is good for an electric driving range of up to 57 km (35 miles), while owners can use it to power tools and equipment through the ProPower Onboard system. Finally, the fully electric e-Transit comes with an electric motor producing 214 hp (217 PS / 160 kW) and 415 Nm (306 lb-ft) of torque, and a larger 74kWh battery offering a 236 miles (380 km) WLTP range.
Ford will showcase the new Transit Custom / e-Transit Custom at the IAA Transportation Show in Hanover (Germany). The LCV will be produced by Ford Otosan in Turkey. Deliveries of the diesel-powered models will start in mid-2023, with the PHEV and EV trims following later in 2023.
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