Ford Transit Connect PHEV for sale. Plug-in hybrid van offering low-emission driving, practicality and everyday business efficiency.

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The Ford Transit Connect PHEV can travel up to 73 miles on electric power alone under perfect conditions, which makes it an attractive choice for companies looking to cut emissions. Our six-month test showed actual range sits closer to 48 miles in typical British weather, which still covers most daily city routes effectively. The plug-in hybrid averaged 53.7 mpg with mixed driving, and proved efficient even when its 148 bhp powertrain switched between electric and petrol modes.
This plug-in hybrid van offers compelling financial benefits beyond its performance. The base price starts at £28,550, and government grants can reduce the L2 model's cost by up to £5,000, which could make it less expensive than similar diesel vans. The Transit Connect PHEV carries a 19.6 kWh battery pack while maintaining a solid 741 kg payload capacity and can pull up to 1,500 kg. We spent six months testing this capable workhorse and are ready to reveal if it truly delivers the cost savings and practicality it promises. Source 

What Is the Ford Transit Connect PHEV and Who Is It For?

The Ford Transit Connect PHEV stands between fully electric vans and traditional diesel options, completing Ford's electrified commercial vehicle lineup. This plug-in hybrid model combines a 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine with an electric motor and high-voltage battery. The setup delivers a combined output of 150 PS and 350 Nm of torque. A six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission makes it a balanced solution for businesses not ready to switch to fully electric vehicles. See Ford Transit Hybrid

Ideal for urban businesses and fleets needing low running costs and ULEZ-friendly driving

The Transit Connect PHEV brings major benefits over conventional diesel vans and fully electric alternatives. Pure electric vans need frequent charging stops on longer trips, but the plug-in hybrid keeps running efficiently after the battery runs out. Diesel vans give excellent range but can't access many urban low-emission zones. See Transit Custom PHEV
This van serves as the perfect middle ground for businesses worried about range but eager to cut emissions. The electric-only range reaches up to 73 miles, beating most plug-in hybrid competitors. The van supports 11kW AC charging overnight and 50kW DC fast charging between work periods. See small business financing loan
Drivers can pick from three driving modes: EV Now (pure electric power), EV Auto (smart mix of petrol and electric), and EV Later (saves battery for later). This flexibility lets drivers get the best efficiency based on their route—especially useful in emission-controlled city areas. See all Ford Transit Connect For Sale

Target Users: Urban Fleets and Tradespeople

Urban fleets and last-mile delivery operations that need access to low-emission zones without range limits are the main target market. The van works great for tradespeople who mostly work in cities but sometimes travel longer distances. They get zero tailpipe emissions in town plus petrol backup for longer trips. See all electric Ford Vans
The official fuel economy numbers (like the "frankly hilarious" 586.3 mpg quoted in some tests) might not match ground use. Still, operators who stay within electric range and charge regularly can keep running costs very low. Ford's 12-month trial with DPD, British Gas, and the Metropolitan Police proved many users might not use any fuel in a typical work week.
The Transit Connect PHEV gives businesses a stepping stone toward the 2030 ban on fossil-fuelled vehicles. It cuts emissions and running costs while avoiding full electric van limitations.

Trim Levels: Trend vs Limited

The Transit Connect PHEV comes in two main trim levels:

• Trend - This base model targets fleet and budget-conscious buyers. It has Traffic Sign Recognition, electronic parking brake, front and rear parking sensors, a 10.25" digital cluster, 10" centre touchscreen, and Connected Navigation. Van and kombi bodystyles make it practical for various operations.
• Limited - The premium version adds Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Assist, rear-view camera, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry/start, wireless phone charging, and 17" alloy wheels. Available only as a panel van, it features a fold-flat passenger seat with built-in work surface—perfect for mobile professionals needing a temporary desk.

Both versions come in short (L1) and long (L2) wheelbase options. L1 provides 3.1 cubic metres of load space while L2 offers 3.7 cubic metres. The Government's Plug-in Van Grant makes L2 models particularly appealing with a £5,000 grant that could make them cheaper than similar diesel versions.

Interior and Tech: Comfort, Controls and Connectivity

The Ford Transit Connect PHEV's cabin hits the sweet spot between practical design and modern comfort. A quick glance at the dashboard might make you do a double-take - it looks so much like Volkswagen's Caddy that only the Ford badge on the steering wheel gives it away. This shared design approach works in its favour with a clean, car-like layout that puts both function and comfort first.

Infotainment System: Android Auto, Apple CarPlay

The digital setup combines a 10-inch colour touchscreen with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster to create a sophisticated cockpit. Ford's SYNC 4 system sits at the core, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in every model. The interface looks a bit old-school compared to newer systems and can be sluggish at times, but the connectivity makes up for these drawbacks.
Built-in navigation comes standard, and over-the-air updates keep your maps fresh. On top of that, the FordPass app takes functionality beyond the vehicle with features like:

• Battery management monitoring
• Vehicle health alerts for maintenance needs
• Remote locking and unlocking
• Parking position location

Cabin Layout and Storage Features

You'll find storage spots everywhere in the cabin. The Limited trim comes with a smart wireless charging pad right in front of the gear selector. Two USB-C ports in the cab pump out 45 watts of power - enough to charge your laptop or tools while you're on the road. The seating setup is just as practical.
The designers didn't forget about comfort despite this being a work vehicle. You can opt for heated front seats with the stamp of approval from Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. (AGR), the Campaign for Healthier Backs. These seats offer excellent lumbar support through four-way electric adjustment and extended leg supports. Add a heated steering wheel, and those long drives become much more enjoyable.
Trend models and higher let you fold the front passenger seat into a work surface with raised edges that keep your stuff from rolling off - your cab becomes an office in seconds. The Combi version really shines with its flexibility. The rear seats fold flat vertically and slide forward, letting you switch from a five-seat passenger vehicle to a two-seat business van in no time.

Touch Controls vs Physical Buttons

The control interface might be the most debatable part of the interior design. Ford kept physical buttons for some functions - like steering wheel controls for the digital display and certain AC settings - but many controls now use touch-sensitive panels.
The touch-sensitive sliders for temperature and volume are a real pain to use daily. One reviewer said it best: "Trying to make any adjustment is like trying to play a theremin during an earthquake". This becomes even more frustrating if you're wearing gloves or have dirty hands - a common situation for trade workers. These controls don't light up either, making nighttime adjustments a guessing game.
The digital instrument cluster deserves praise for its sharp display and easy operation through steering wheel buttons. You can customise this display to show what matters most to you, though some drivers think it shows too much information at once.
The ability to precondition the cab while charging is a brilliant touch, especially on those chilly British mornings. The rear-view camera display, mounted where you'd normally find your mirror, makes a big difference in visibility and safety.

Driving and Performance: How It Handles in Real Life

My time behind the wheel of the Ford Transit Connect PHEV revealed how its car-based foundation creates a refined driving experience. The van shares its platform with Volkswagen Group vehicles, which gives it handling that sets it apart from typical commercial vehicles.

Electric-Only Driving in Urban Conditions

The Transit Connect PHEV runs silently and smoothly on pure electric power. While it claims an electric-only range of 73 miles, our tests in cold British winter weather showed about 48 miles before the petrol engine started. This range works well for daily city routes since most commercial vehicles cover 30-40 miles each day.
The electric motor packs 330Nm of torque in EV mode, giving enough punch for city driving. Light and precise steering plus a great turning circle makes it easy to handle tight city streets and parking lots. The van can run on electricity alone at motorway speeds, which means zero-emission driving in many situations.

Hybrid Transition and Engine Clunk

The switch between electric and petrol power could be smoother. A noticeable clunk happens when the 1.5-litre petrol engine starts, especially at lower speeds. This change feels abrupt at times, though the six-speed dual-clutch transmission shifts smoothly once both power sources work together.
The drivetrain comes with four EV modes you can select:

• EV Now: For pure electric driving, ideal in emission-controlled zones
• EV Auto: Intelligently balances petrol and electric power based on conditions
• EV Later: Preserves battery charge for future use
• EV Reserve: Maintains a user-defined battery level

Motorway and Load-Carrying Behaviour

The Transit Connect PHEV shows its refined character at cruising speed. Motorway trips feel surprisingly comfortable with supple ride quality and consistent brake response. The combined 150hp and 350Nm of torque delivers decent performance even with a full load, though it won't win any races.
Fuel economy settles around 30mpg on engine power alone when the battery runs low. After hundreds of miles of mixed driving, including motorway runs with empty batteries, I averaged 53.7mpg – much better than what you'd get from a comparable diesel van.
This Transit Connect PHEV makes driving less stressful. Silent cruising through city streets without clutch or vibration creates a more relaxed workday. Its composed handling builds confidence no matter the load or road conditions.

Payload, Range and Practicality Compared

The Ford Transit Connect PHEV proves to be a well-designed workhorse that strikes a perfect balance between cargo capacity and electric power. My six-month testing period helped me learn about how the hybrid system affects its core van capabilities.

Cargo Space: L1 vs L2 Models

The Transit Connect PHEV comes in two body lengths to suit different business requirements. The standard L1 model gives you 3.1 cubic metres of load space with a maximum length of 1,797mm. Businesses that need more room can opt for the L2 variant with 3.7 cubic metres and a 2,150mm load length. Both versions share similar width dimensions of 1,628mm, which easily fits a Euro pallet with space left over.
The PHEV powertrain's effect on payload capacity compared to diesel versions is significant. My test vehicle had a maximum payload of 741kg. This is a big deal as it means that it's lower than the 820kg diesel variants offer, due to the battery pack's weight. The capacity still stands strong and beats what you'll find in rivals like the Volkswagen Caddy.

FlexCab and Seating Configurations

Ford's clever FlexCab system takes versatility to another level. This £2,000 option adds a second row of seats with a smart moveable bulkhead. The rear bench easily folds up and forward by pulling fabric loops on the seat sides, then locks into a roof-mounted bar. You can switch from a five-seater to a standard van in seconds.
The FlexCab works great as a compact MPV with plenty of boot space in passenger mode. The folded seats create a solid full-height bulkhead that makes the cabin quieter. Both wheelbase options still have enough room for a Euro pallet even with the seats in place.

Towing Capacity and Load Access

Loading is easy no matter which model you choose. The L1 has a 703mm sliding door on the passenger side, while L2 models get an extra sliding door on the other side. At the back, twin barn-style doors fold out 270 degrees for easy loading.
The Transit Connect PHEV pulls its weight with a strong 1,500kg braked trailer capacity (750kg unbraked), matching many diesel vans. These capabilities combined with its spacious interior show that the electric drivetrain doesn't compromise its role as a practical commercial vehicle.

Running Costs and Pricing Breakdown

The Ford Transit Connect PHEV's financial performance shows striking differences between official numbers and ground experience. My six months of testing has yielded complete data about actual costs that businesses should expect.

Ground MPG vs Claimed Figures

The Transit Connect PHEV boasts an incredible official fuel economy figure of 586.3 mpg. This number barely reflects daily usage. My tests over hundreds of miles using both electric and petrol power averaged 53.7 mpg. These numbers look good but fall nowhere near the brochure claims. The economy drops to about 30 mpg when running on engine power alone.
Which? testing confirms this pattern. Their results show actual efficiency falls 61% below manufacturer claims. Your mileage depends heavily on how often you charge. Operators who keep charging might barely touch their petrol reserves.

Charging Costs and Time

The vehicle's 19.7 kWh usable battery needs different charging times based on power sources. A 7.4kW home charger fills up the battery in about 2 hours 39 minutes. Standard household sockets take longer at 8 hours 33 minutes.
The costs tell an interesting story. A full charge costs £4.83 on standard rates, dropping to £1.48 during off-peak hours. This translates to 7p per mile on standard rates or just 2p per mile on economy rates. The numbers make diesel alternatives look expensive.

Government Grants and Final Price

The Transit Connect PHEV line starts at £28,550 before VAT, costing more than diesel versions. The government's Plug-in Van Grant helps offset this price difference. Short wheelbase (L1) models get a £2,500 discount. Long wheelbase (L2) variants receive £5,000.
Vans must emit less than 50g/km CO2 and cover at least 60 miles emission-free to qualify. The Transit Connect PHEV meets these requirements easily with 11-12g/km emissions and a 73-mile electric range. These generous grants make some L2 PHEV models cheaper than diesel versions. The savings extend to city congestion charge exemptions.

Conclusion

The Verdict: Is the Transit Connect PHEV Worth It?

Six months of driving the Transit Connect PHEV shows it delivers on most of Ford's promises. The ground electric range doesn't match the advertised 73 miles, yet achieving 48 miles steadily through British winter proves impressive.
This plug-in hybrid solution eliminates range anxiety completely. Companies can handle urban deliveries using pure electric power and switch to hybrid mode for longer trips without worrying about charging stops. The flexibility is a great way to get insights for operations mixing city work with occasional longer trips.
Your business's financial calculations will determine if this van fits your needs. Government grants change the equation drastically, especially when L2 models get the full £5,000 contribution. The Transit Connect PHEV could save money compared to diesel alternatives despite its higher price tag. This becomes possible with congestion charge exemptions and very low running costs from regular charging.
The practical trade-offs stay minimal. My testing showed the slight payload reduction versus diesel models rarely caused problems, and the 1,500kg towing capacity met expectations. Ford's clever design preserved most of the Transit Connect's basic utility while adding the complex hybrid parts.
The user experience tells two different stories. The comfortable seats, smart storage solutions and smooth connectivity make daily use better. But those annoying touch-sensitive controls frustrate drivers, more so with work gloves or during night drives.
This van works best for companies that can set up workplace charging and operate within the 48-mile electric range. These conditions almost eliminate fuel costs, reduce maintenance needs, and give drivers a more relaxed workday without engine noise or vibration.
The Transit Connect PHEV finds its perfect place in today's commercial vehicle market. Electric vans keep getting better, but this plug-in hybrid offers a solid balance between being eco-friendly and practical. Companies looking to cut emissions while keeping their capabilities should think over Ford's electrified workhorse.