The first batch of Transit Connect Electrics has been per-ordered by corporate customers such as AT&T, Southern California Edison, Xcel Energy, Johnson Controls Inc., New York Power Authority, Canada Post and Toronto Atmospheric Fund EV300.
The joint project between Ford and Azure Dynamics was first announced in October 2009. Azure Dynamics fitted the vans with their Force Drive battery electric drivetrain technology including Johnson Controls-Saft’s advanced lithium-ion battery. Inital production of the Transit Connect Electric begun in the fourth quarter of 2010 and full production is expected to ramp up in April 2011.
“Supplier collaboration is important on all Ford product programs, but it was especially key in this effort, which went from contract signing to vehicle production in 13 months,” said Ford director in Electrification Programs and Engineering, Sherif Marakby. “A strong teamwork environment established by Azure and Ford was critical to delivering this vehicle.”
“The Transit Connect Electric program is a great representation of our product development approach,” said Scott Harrison, CEO, Azure Dynamics. “We have been able to focus on integration of our Force Drive powertrain solution and benefit from Ford’s expertise in building ground-up global vehicle platforms. Meanwhile, capital costs are kept in check by contracting AM General for labor and assembly services – an area where the company excels. Transit Connect Electric is a revolutionary technology and achieving our aggressive time line is a testament to the professionalism and spirit of cooperation among all the project partners.”
The all-electric, zero-emissions Transit Connect Electric has a driving range of up to 80 miles per charge and is ideal for fleet owners. Charging the van is possible with either a 120-volt outlet or a 240-volt charge station, and takes six to eight hours. The vehicle is fitted with a transportable cord that is suited for both types of outlets. The battery pack has been conveniently integrated so that it doesn't take up interior passenger room or cargo space and is expected to last the life of the vehicle.
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