As winner of the Van of the Year Award it follows that the E-Transit also won its category: Large Van of the Year. It comes in two trims, with the entry-level models being a higher specification than the equivalent diesel model with air conditioning, keyless start, heated seats, Quickclear windscreen and heated electric mirrors.
All vans get the FordPass Connect modem that comes with a lifetime subscription to FordPass Pro or Ford Telematics Essentials and a year’s worth of access to the FordPass charging network is thrown in along with a one-year subscription to Ford Telematics for fleet customers.
The arrival of the E-Transit is a huge moment for the mass uptake of electric vans but Ford hasn’t simply thrown an electric drivetrain at the regular van. New rear suspension, and enhanced connectivity represent a step forward for the Transit and with new features like Ford Pro Power Onboard, which facilitates running tools and lights off the vehicle’s battery, it’s a game-changer for customers too.
Highly Commended: Fiat Professional Ducato
The 2022 Large Van of the Year is runner-up for 2023. Available with a GVW of up to 4.25t giving a payload of 2,200kg, load space goes up to 17.0m3. There are four body lengths and three roof heights. Throw in crew vans, chassis cabs and dropside or tipper variants and the Ducato range is as complete and versatile as any other.
Innovations include a digital centre mirror, found in other Fiat/Chrysler group products like the RAM pick-up, which provides a clear view of the road behind you in a screen, which not only looks like a traditional rearview mirror but can also function as one at the flip of a switch. A 7in digital TFT touchscreen is fitted as standard but it’s the 10in Uconnect system newly added to the Ducato that transforms the interior. It not only allows wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but also a raft of connectivity systems to monitor the vehicle.
