Transit Custom PHEV

A plug-in hybrid van built for efficiency, versatility and business performance

The Ford Transit Custom PHEV has revolutionised the commercial vehicle market, offering a unique blend of efficiency and practicality. This plug-in hybrid variant of the popular Transit Custom van has garnered significant attention from businesses and individuals alike, seeking to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on performance. With its innovative powertrain, the Transit Custom PHEV provides a solution to the growing demand for environmentally friendly transport options in urban areas.

As we delve into the world of the Transit Custom PHEV, we'll explore the top lease deals available, examine its performance on the road, and assess its interior features and practicality. We'll also take a closer look at the running costs and efficiency of this groundbreaking vehicle. Whether you're in the market for a ford transit custom phev lease or simply curious about the latest advancements in commercial vehicle technology, this comprehensive review will provide valuable insights into the Transit Custom PHEV and its place in the evolving landscape of sustainable transportation. See all Ford Transit Custom for sale

What is the Transit Custom PHEV?

The Ford Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) is a medium-sized van that combines the best of both worlds: the efficiency of an electric vehicle and the range of a conventional petrol engine. This innovative commercial vehicle offers a city-friendly alternative to diesel, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing practicality. See all Ford Electric Vans for sale

Why the Ford Transit Custom PHEV is a smart choice for UK fleet leasing

The Transit Custom PHEV boasts several key features that set it apart from its diesel counterparts:

1. Zero-emission driving capability
2. No range anxiety
3. Simple charging process
4. No compromise to load volume and payload
5. CO2 emissions of 60 g/km
6. Fuel efficiency of 2.7 l/100km

One of the most significant advantages of the Transit Custom PHEV is its ability to maintain the same load space as the conventional L1H1 Transit Custom diesel. This is achieved through clever packaging of the batteries under the floor, ensuring that businesses don't have to sacrifice cargo capacity for eco-friendliness. See Ford Transit Custom Lease

Powertrain Specifications Transit Custom PHEV

The Transit Custom PHEV's powertrain is a unique combination of electric and petrol technology:

• Front wheels driven by an electric motor
• 126 PS (92.9 kW) at 9,000 rpm
• 355 Nm of torque at 1-2,250 rpm
• 13.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack
• 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine acting as a generator

Unlike traditional hybrid vehicles, the petrol engine in the Transit Custom PHEV doesn't directly drive the wheels. Instead, it serves as a generator to create charge for the battery pack and electric motor, which are responsible for propelling the van. See all electric van lease deals The vehicle offers four selectable EV modes, allowing drivers to choose when to use the available battery charge:

1. EV Auto
2. EV Now
3. EV Later
4. EV Charge

This flexibility enables drivers to optimise their energy usage based on their specific journey requirements.

Electric Range

The Transit Custom PHEV offers an impressive electric-only driving range:

• Pure-electric driving range of 56 km (35 miles)
• Total range exceeding 500 km (310 miles)

This electric range is particularly useful for businesses operating in urban areas or low emission zones. The van can maintain its state of charge and switch to electric power when entering city centres, thanks to GPS 'geo-fencing' technology. See all electric vans for sale Charging the Transit Custom PHEV is straightforward and can be done in various ways:

• Domestic 240-volt 10-amp power supply: 4.3 hours
• Commercial type-2 AC vehicle charger: 2.7 hours

The battery comes with an 8-year / 160,000 km (100,000-mile) warranty, providing peace of mind for businesses investing in this technology. In terms of practicality, the Transit Custom PHEV maintains a generous payload of 1,130kg, ensuring it can handle the demands of most commercial applications. However, it's worth noting that the PHEV version has no towing rating, as Ford is cautious about the stress on the drivetrain. See Ford E Transit Custom  The Transit Custom PHEV represents a significant step forward in commercial vehicle technology, offering businesses a viable option to reduce their environmental impact without compromising on the functionality and reliability that the Transit name is known for. Its combination of zero-emission capability, practical range, and familiar load space makes it an attractive proposition for a wide range of businesses, particularly those operating in urban environments or areas with strict emissions regulations. See Ford Transit Custom Electric

Top Transit Custom PHEV Lease Deals

The Ford Transit Custom PHEV has become an attractive option for businesses and individuals looking to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on performance. As the demand for environmentally friendly transport options grows, so does the availability of competitive lease deals for this innovative vehicle. See all Electric Ford Vans

Best personal lease offers

For those seeking a personal lease on the Transit Custom PHEV, there are several factors to consider. The lease type typically offered is a Personal Contract Hire, which allows individuals to enjoy the benefits of a new vehicle without the long-term commitment of ownership. Personal lease offers often come with flexible terms, allowing customers to tailor their agreement to suit their needs. See all Hybrid van lease deals Key features of personal lease offers include:

1. Varied contract lengths, ranging from 12 to 60 months
2. Annual mileage options from 5,000 to 20,000 miles
3. Initial payment options of 1, 3, 6, 9, or 12 months
4. Optional maintenance packages for added peace of mind

It's important to note that excess mileage charges may apply if the agreed annual mileage is exceeded, so it's crucial to choose a mileage allowance that accurately reflects your driving habits.

Best business lease offers Transit Custom PHEV

Business lease deals for the Transit Custom PHEV are particularly appealing to companies looking to modernise their fleet with eco-friendly vehicles. These offers are typically structured as Business Contract Hire agreements, providing businesses with a cost-effective way to access the latest commercial vehicle technology. A typical business lease offer for the Transit Custom PHEV might include:

• Monthly payments of £527.11 (excluding VAT)
• An initial payment of £6,325.32
• A processing fee of £225
• Contract lengths ranging from 12 to 60 months
• Annual mileage options from 5,000 to 20,000 miles

Many business lease deals also offer the option to include maintenance packages. For instance, a maintenance package might cost an additional £25.38 per month (excluding VAT), covering routine servicing and repairs.

Factors affecting lease prices

Several factors can influence the cost of leasing a Transit Custom PHEV:

1. Specification level: The Transit Custom PHEV is available in various trim levels, with higher specifications typically resulting in higher lease costs. For example, the 'Trend' version offers a good balance of features and affordability.
2. Contract length and mileage: Longer contracts and higher mileage allowances generally lead to lower monthly payments but may result in a higher total cost over the lease term.
3. Initial payment: A larger upfront payment can reduce monthly costs but requires a more significant initial outlay.
4. Optional extras: Additional features or accessories can increase the lease price.
5. Market conditions: Lease prices can fluctuate based on supply and demand, as well as manufacturer promotions.

It's worth noting that the Transit Custom PHEV qualifies for the government's £5,000 Plug-in Van Grant, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of leasing. This grant is automatically factored into lease calculations, making the PHEV version more competitive against its diesel counterparts. When considering a lease deal for the Transit Custom PHEV, it's essential to evaluate the total cost of ownership. Ford claims that the total cost of ownership is comparable to or better than a diesel equivalent, thanks to lower running costs and potential savings on congestion charges in urban areas. With CO2 emissions rated at around 60g/km and an electric-only driving range of up to 35 miles, the PHEV variant offers significant environmental benefits that may translate into financial advantages for businesses operating in low emission zones.

Performance and Driving Experience

The Ford Transit Custom PHEV offers a unique driving experience that combines the efficiency of an electric vehicle with the range of a conventional petrol engine. This innovative powertrain setup provides drivers with a versatile and capable commercial vehicle that excels in various driving conditions.

Acceleration and top speed

The Transit Custom PHEV boasts impressive performance figures for a commercial vehicle. It can accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 6.2 seconds, which is surprisingly quick for a van of its size. This rapid acceleration is largely due to the instant torque provided by the electric motor, which delivers 355 Nm of torque from a standstill. Drivers should be cautious with this instant power delivery, as it can lead to quicker wear on the front tyres if not managed carefully. The van's top speed is limited to 75 mph, which is more than sufficient for most commercial applications and helps to optimise efficiency. With an engine power of 125 bhp (92 kW), the Transit Custom PHEV offers ample performance for both urban and motorway driving.

Handling and ride comfort

Ford has equipped the Transit Custom PHEV with new, lighter power steering, making it exceptionally easy to manoeuvre. Many drivers compare the handling experience to that of driving an SUV, which is high praise for a commercial vehicle. The van's ride quality is particularly noteworthy, with the PHEV model coping well with road imperfections and providing a comfortable experience for both driver and passengers. On motorways, the Transit Custom PHEV's cabin proves to be a pleasant environment. While it's slightly noisier than the fully electric version, it's significantly quieter than its diesel counterpart. This reduced noise level contributes to a more relaxed driving experience, especially on longer journeys. The van's handling characteristics are remarkably car-like, with cornering ability that belies its commercial vehicle status. Even when lightly loaded, the Transit Custom PHEV maintains good composure, although it can exhibit some bounce over larger bumps when unladen. To further enhance the driving experience, Ford has equipped the Transit Custom PHEV with eight drive modes:

1. Normal
2. Eco
3. Sport
4. Slippery
5. Tow/Haul
6. EV Auto
7. EV Now
8. EV Later

These modes allow drivers to tailor the van's performance to suit various driving conditions and preferences. The EV modes, in particular, offer flexibility in managing the vehicle's electric range and petrol engine usage.

Charging times Transit Custom PHEV

The Transit Custom PHEV's 13.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides an electric-only driving range of approximately 35 miles (56 km). This range is ideal for urban deliveries or short commutes, allowing businesses to operate with zero emissions in city centres. Charging times for the Transit Custom PHEV vary depending on the charging method used:

Charging method Typically found at Charging time* Range/hour**

3-pin plug Home 6 h 6 m/h

3.6kW Home / Work 4 h 9 m/h

7kW Home / Work / Public 2 h 17 m/h

22kW Work / Public 2 h 17 m/h

*Charging time from empty to full **Range added per hour of charging It's worth noting that the Transit Custom PHEV can handle up to 16A 1-phase charging, with a maximum charging capacity of 3.7kW. This allows for a full charge in approximately 3.75 hours from 0% to 100%. For those using a domestic 240V 10A power supply, a full charge can be achieved in 4.3 hours. Commercial type-2 AC chargers can reduce this time to 2.7 hours, making it convenient for businesses to recharge their vehicles during short breaks or overnight. The Transit Custom PHEV's combination of efficient electric driving, petrol engine range extension, and flexible charging options makes it a versatile choice for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact without compromising on performance or practicality.

Interior and Practicality

Cabin design and quality

The Ford Transit Custom PHEV boasts a cabin design that strikes a balance between functionality and comfort. Ford has given the interior a more car-like feel, making it appealing to a wider market, including lifestyle buyers. Even those new to driving vans will find themselves at ease in this environment. The quality of materials used in the Transit Custom PHEV is notably higher than many of its rivals. The steering wheel is covered with buttons, putting secondary controls at the driver's fingertips. However, the placement of heating and ventilation controls on the far side of the gearlever pod may not be the most ergonomic choice. Ford has significantly improved the practicality of the cab with the 2018 facelift. The interior now offers what Ford claims is a 'class-leading' amount of in-cab stowage. There are 25 litres of storage space in the instrument panel alone, and the interior door trim design has been revamped to offer three levels of storage and a sensibly placed grab handle.

Cargo space and payload capacity

The Transit Custom PHEV maintains the same impressive load capacity as its diesel counterpart, thanks to clever packaging of the batteries under the floor. The van offers a generous 6.0 cubic metres of load space in the L1 version, with a maximum payload capacity of up to 1,327kg in 'Trend' spec. The cargo area dimensions are impressive, with a load width of 1,777mm, narrowing to 1,392mm between the wheel arches. The door aperture height stands at 1,314mm, providing ample space for loading and unloading. All versions of the Transit Custom come with a large sliding door on the passenger side, with the option to add a second on the opposite side. The rear doors open wide, and the load area is well-shaped with few intrusions. A metal bulkhead with a load-through hatch for longer items such as pipes and planks comes as standard in all panel vans.

Tech features Transit Custom PHEV

The Transit Custom PHEV comes equipped with an array of tech features designed to enhance the driving and working experience. Higher-specification versions feature a 'floating' touchscreen infotainment system similar to the latest Ford Fiesta. The new 13-inch 'SYNC 4' centre touchscreen, angled towards the driver for ease of use, is a standout feature. It's powered by a 5G modem, ensuring superfast connectivity to the Ford Pro tech stack. The SYNC 3 system, available in some models, includes logical voice control and features both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. For those without the full SYNC 3 set-up, the entry-level DIN-slot sized radio paired with the MyFord Dock accessory is a practical alternative. This accessory sits on top of the dashboard and has been designed to flexibly mount various smartphones, tablets, and sat-navs safely. The Transit Custom PHEV also offers Pro Power Onboard technology, allowing users to plug in electric tools, lights, laptops, or other devices while on site. This feature adds to the van's versatility, making it an ideal choice for various work environments. With its blend of practicality, comfort, and advanced technology, the Ford Transit Custom PHEV's interior and cargo space offer a compelling package for businesses and individuals looking for a versatile and efficient commercial vehicle.

Running Costs and Efficiency

The Ford Transit Custom PHEV offers a unique blend of efficiency and practicality, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to reduce their running costs and environmental impact. This section explores the van's fuel economy, tax benefits, and maintenance costs.

Fuel Economy Transit Custom PHEV

The Transit Custom PHEV boasts impressive fuel efficiency figures. According to official WLTP combined data, it achieves 91.7mpg with CO2 emissions of 70 g/km. The van has a combined electric driving range of 26 miles, which extends to 30 miles in the WLTP City cycle. When using the petrol range extender, the total range increases to 310 miles. Real-world testing has shown varied results. During a week-long review, the van returned 34.2mpg on motorway journeys. However, for short runs and urban driving, the economy soared to an impressive 999.9mpg when used primarily on electric power. The projected electric range of 26 miles appeared to be accurate in real-world use. It's worth noting that the van's efficiency is at its peak when the battery is fully charged. Users are encouraged to take every opportunity to plug in, as this can significantly improve the average economy. However, the efficiency can vary depending on driving conditions and battery charge level.

Tax Benefits Transit Custom PHEV

While vans used exclusively for business aren't subject to Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) company-car tax, those used for private journeys are levied a flat rate of £3,430. This applies whether it's taking the van home after work or making a personal detour during the day. For the 2020/21 financial year, 20% rate taxpayers would pay £686, while 40% rate payers would owe £1,372. The Transit Custom PHEV's low CO2 emissions of 70 g/km may offer potential savings on congestion charges in urban areas. This could be a significant benefit for businesses operating in cities with strict emissions regulations, such as London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).

Maintenance Costs

Maintenance for the Transit Custom PHEV requires slightly more frequent servicing compared to its diesel counterpart. While all versions need workshop visits at least every two years, the PHEV's service intervals are reduced from every 25,000 miles to every 18,000 miles. Charging costs are an important consideration. Using a domestic electricity supply, a full charge takes approximately 4.3 hours and costs around £1.60 on a standard tariff. This provides about 20 miles of range, compared to spending around £3 in petrol for the same distance. For businesses doing lots of short journeys, these savings can accumulate quickly. When considering the total cost of ownership, Ford claims that the PHEV variant is comparable to or better than a diesel equivalent, thanks to lower running costs and potential savings on urban charges. However, the initial purchase price is higher, with the PHEV costing around £6,000 more than an equivalent diesel automatic Transit Custom. In conclusion, the Transit Custom PHEV offers significant potential for cost savings, particularly for businesses operating in urban environments with frequent short journeys. However, to fully realise these benefits, users must take advantage of regular charging opportunities and consider their specific driving patterns and requirements.

Conclusion Transit Custom PHEV

The Ford Transit Custom PHEV has proven to be a game-changer in the commercial vehicle market. Its unique blend of electric efficiency and petrol-powered range has an impact on businesses looking to cut costs and reduce their carbon footprint. The van's ability to maintain its impressive cargo capacity while offering zero-emission driving in urban areas makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of applications. To sum up, the Transit Custom PHEV offers a compelling package for businesses wanting to embrace greener technology without sacrificing practicality. While the initial cost may be higher than its diesel counterpart, the potential savings in fuel and urban charges, combined with its advanced features and comfortable driving experience, make it a strong contender in the evolving commercial vehicle landscape. As cities continue to tighten emissions regulations, vans like the Transit Custom PHEV are likely to become increasingly popular choices for forward-thinking businesses.

FAQs Transit Custom PHEV

What is the cost of leasing a Transit Custom? The cost of leasing a Transit Custom can vary based on the lease terms, the model, and the dealer's pricing. It's best to contact leasing companies or dealerships for the most accurate and current pricing. How much does the Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid cost? The price of the Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid will depend on the specific configuration and options chosen. For precise pricing, it's advisable to check with local dealerships or the official Ford website. What fuel efficiency can you expect from the Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid? Officially, the Transit PHEV achieves a fuel economy of 91.7 miles per gallon and has CO2 emissions of 70g/km. These figures are based on the vehicle being regularly charged. Without frequent charging, these numbers may not be achievable in everyday driving conditions. What is the electric-only range of the Ford Transit PHEV? The Ford Transit PHEV offers a targeted electric-only driving range of 23-35 miles, making it particularly suitable for urban driving and jobs within city centres. Regular charging is essential to maximise this range.