Ford is making significant strides in the electric vehicle (EV) market, starting with the Transit Connect, which will be their first fully electric commercial vehicle available in 2010. This move is part of a broader strategy to introduce multiple electric models in the U.S. and globally.
Ford is advancing its electric vehicle plans, beginning with the Transit Connect, set to be the company's first all-electric commercial vehicle in 2010. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to roll out several electric models in the coming years, including a small electric car and next-generation hybrids. Partnering with Smith Electric Vehicles, Ford aims to lead in fuel economy and sustainability.
Ford Motor Company has officially announced its commitment to producing electric vehicles, starting with an electrified version of the popular Transit Connect commercial vehicle. Initially launched as a gasoline model in 2002, the Transit Connect will debut as an electric model in 2010. This marks a significant step in Ford's broader plan to introduce several electric vehicles to the market.
Derrick Kuzak, Ford's Group Vice President of Global Product Development, stated, "The new Transit Connect light commercial vehicle with battery electric power represents the next logical step in our pursuit of even greater fuel economy and sustainability."
Ford's aggressive new electric vehicle plan includes a variety of models set to launch over the next four years:
To achieve its electric vehicle goals, Ford is collaborating with Smith Electric Vehicles, a leading battery electric upfitter of commercial vehicles in Europe. Smith Electric Vehicles, part of the U.K.-based Tanfield Group, has a long history dating back to 1920 and has converted tens of thousands of vehicles to battery electric power.
The Transit Connect is considered an ideal platform for electrification due to its design and structure. Once equipped with an electric battery, the vehicle is expected to have a range of 100 miles, which is sufficient for most commercial applications.
Since its introduction in 2002, more than 600,000 units of the Transit Connect have been sold worldwide, serving 58 countries across four continents. The introduction of the electric Transit Connect in the U.S. market underscores Ford's commitment to diversifying its product offerings and promoting sustainability.
Ford's initiative to introduce the Transit Connect as its first fully electric commercial vehicle in 2010 is a significant step towards a more sustainable future. With plans to roll out additional electric models and next-generation hybrids, Ford is positioning itself as a leader in the electric vehicle market. The collaboration with Smith Electric Vehicles and the global reach of the Transit Connect further highlight Ford's commitment to innovation and sustainability.
By focusing on electric commercial vehicles, Ford is not only addressing the growing demand for eco-friendly transportation but also setting a precedent for other automakers to follow.
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