Is the Ford Transit Connect a plug-in hybrid?
No, the Ford Transit Connect is not a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The Transit Connect is available as a traditional gasoline-powered van, but it does not offer a plug-in hybrid or fully electric powertrain option.
Detailed Overview of the Ford Transit Connect
The Ford Transit Connect is a compact commercial van that has been in production since 2002. It is designed primarily for business and fleet use, offering a versatile cargo area and a range of configurations to suit different needs. While the Transit Connect is known for its fuel-efficient gasoline engines, it does not currently have a plug-in hybrid or all-electric variant available.
Powertrain Options for the Ford Transit Connect
- The standard powertrain for the Transit Connect is a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
- An optional 1.5-liter EcoBlue diesel engine is also available in certain markets, but this is not a hybrid or electric powertrain.
- Ford does not offer a plug-in hybrid or all-electric version of the Transit Connect at this time.
The Transit Connect is focused on providing a practical, efficient, and versatile commercial van solution, but it does not currently incorporate any hybrid or electric powertrain technologies. Customers interested in a more environmentally-friendly commercial van may need to consider other options, such as the all-electric Ford E-Transit, which was introduced in 2022.
What is the range of the Transit Connect plug-in hybrid?
A 1.5-litre petrol engine is paired with an electric motor under the bonnet, combining to deliver 148bhp and 258lb ft of torque. That goes through a six-speed automatic gearbox to the front wheels. With a 19.6kWh battery pack under the floor, the Transit Connect PHEV will go for 73 miles on electricity alone.
Why is Ford discontinuing Transit Connect?
Ford is discontinuing the Transit Connect in North America because of declining demand for compact vans, the need to reduce global manufacturing costs and complexity, and a company-wide shift towards more profitable vehicles like larger trucks and SUVs. The company is also prioritizing its electric vehicle (EV) offerings, such as the E-Transit, and focusing on the more successful full-size Transit van. The Transit Connect will continue to be produced and sold in European markets.
Key reasons for discontinuation
- Declining demand: The market for compact vans in the U.S. has shrunk, with other manufacturers like Ram, GM, and Nissan also pulling out of the segment.
- Cost and complexity: Ford is streamlining its global manufacturing to reduce costs. A planned next-generation model would have required significant investment, and the company decided against it.
- Focus on profitability: The commercial vehicle market is currently more profitable for larger trucks and SUVs, which are a bigger priority for Ford than small vans.
- Shift to EVs: Ford is focusing resources on its electric vehicle strategy, including the larger E-Transit, which is seen as a more strategic long-term product.
- Replacement strategy: Instead of replacing the Transit Connect in North America, Ford is likely to use the full-size Transit van, which is very popular, to fill the void. The Transit is also being expanded with more variants, like the all-electric E-Transit and off-road-focused Transit Trail.
Is there a hybrid Ford Transit Connect?
Through a six-speed dualclutch automatic transmission maximum payload is 761 kg for the long wheelbase. Model and maximum trailer weight is 1,500 kg for the short wheelbase. Model transit Connect Plug
Does Ford have any plug-in hybrid vehicles?
Yes, Ford makes a plug-in hybrid, the Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid, which is available in the United States. The Escape Plug-In Hybrid combines a gasoline engine with a battery for electric-only driving on short trips, and can be charged at home or at public charging stations. Ford has also announced a plug-in hybrid version of the Ranger for other markets, such as Europe and Australia.
- Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid: This is the current plug-in hybrid model available in the U.S. It offers a mix of gas and electric power, with a dedicated electric-only range before the gas engine kicks in.
- Charging: The Escape Plug-In Hybrid can be charged using a standard 120v outlet or a more powerful 240v charger. It also comes with a mobile cord for charging.
- Ford Ranger Plug-In Hybrid: Ford has confirmed a Ranger plug-in hybrid for markets outside of the U.S., including Europe and Australia. It is not yet confirmed for the U.S. market.
