Shortly after the reveal of the fully electric E-Transit Custom, Ford was caught testing the ICE-powered version of its van, with a camouflaged prototype wearing the high roof spotted on public roads. Both the Transit Custom (LCV) and Tourneo Custom (MPV) will be sharing most of their body panels with the E-Transit Custom, with small differences signifying the presence of a combustion engine under the bonnet. Those changes will likely focus on the headlight graphics and front grille.
The range will include different wheelbase
lengths and heights, in order to cover the different needs of professionals.
The high roof on this prototype is beneficial for the cargo space, allowing
owners to transport larger items. They can also move freely inside the cargo
area while standing straight, thanks to the increased interior height.
This configuration sounds like a great
base for a camper van conversion, although Ford will likely continue offering
the readymade Transit Custom Nugget to fulfill that role. The Nugget comes with
different types of roof extensions (electrically-operated or fixed) and offers
a dedicated living space at the back. We wouldn’t be surprised if Ford launched
an Active trim of the new Transit Custom with crossover-style add-ons.
The new generation of the Transit Custom
and Tourneo Custom will also serve as the base for the next VW Transporter as
part of Ford’s collaboration with Volkswagen. Besides the fully electric
version, engine options are expected to include petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid,
and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Ford has confirmed that the full range of the
1-tonne LCV will be produced in Turkey starting from 2023.
