Ford Transit Custom Hybrid Vans: Are They Right for You?
The automotive world is rapidly electrifying, and the van market is no exception. While electric vans are gaining traction, offering an excellent solution for short-distance deliveries, diesel remains a viable choice for longer journeys due to its practicality. However, a third option exists: the hybrid van.
Hybrid vans blend the flexibility and range of an internal combustion engine with the potential for zero-emission operation and reduced running costs, particularly in urban environments. This technology is a bridge between diesel and fully electric models.
There are primarily two types of hybrid vans: plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and traditional hybrids. PHEVs can travel significant distances on electric power alone, while traditional hybrids rely more heavily on the engine and regenerative braking.
Despite their advantages, hybrid vans are still relatively uncommon in the UK market. Only a handful of models are currently available, as many manufacturers have focused on pure electric vans as a zero-emission alternative to their diesel offerings. However, the hybrid segment could see growth in the future.
One of the most prominent hybrid vans is the Ford Transit Custom, a key player in the UK commercial vehicle market. It is available as a plug-in hybrid in both panel van and minibus (Tourneo Custom) configurations.
Another contender is the LEVC VN5, a plug-in hybrid van from the London EV Company. The VN5 is based on the TX taxi.
What is a Hybrid Van?
A hybrid van utilizes the same technology found in hybrid cars. It combines a conventional petrol or diesel engine (petrol is more common) with an electric motor powered by a large battery pack. In most cases, the electric motor can drive the van independently, enabling electric-only driving modes.
Unlike fully electric vans, you can refuel a hybrid and continue driving without needing to stop and recharge, offering greater range flexibility.
The three main types of hybrid vans are:
- ‘Traditional’ (self-charging) hybrids: These models use the engine and regenerative braking to recharge a smaller battery. These are less prevalent in the van market.
- Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs): These can be charged via a plug and typically have larger batteries, allowing for a longer electric-only driving range. You might see up to 30 miles of electric range in a plug-in hybrid vehicle.
- Range Extender Hybrids: These employ an engine and an electric motor, where the engine never directly drives the wheels. Instead, it acts as a generator to charge the battery.
The Ford Transit Custom PHEV was the first volume-produced plug-in hybrid light commercial vehicle. Ford conducted a 12-month trial with 20 vehicles, loaning them to various businesses in urban areas across the UK, including companies like DPD, British Gas, Transport for London (TfL), and the Metropolitan Police.
LEVC also builds a plug-in hybrid, range-extender electric van: the VN5. This van is based on the LEVC TX taxi and uses the same 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol engine (sourced from Volvo) coupled with an electric motor to power the rear wheels.
The VN5 has a pure-electric range of 61 miles, extended to 300 miles by the petrol engine’s function as a range extender. This translates to a claimed average fuel economy of over 300 mpg and CO2 emissions of just over 20g/km. LEVC estimates their van can perform a full day’s work for most operators without needing to refuel or recharge.
For those needing a smaller loadbay, the Toyota Corolla Commercial is a two-seat business-focused van based on the Corolla Touring Sports. It’s a hybrid instead of a plug-in hybrid; it doesn’t provide the low running costs or electric driving range of PHEVs but is more affordable to buy, and does not need to be plugged in.
Advantages of Hybrid Vans
Hybrid vans can provide significant benefits, particularly in urban environments.
- Fuel Efficiency: Hybrid vans use regenerative braking, recharging the batteries during deceleration, which saves fuel and minimizes emissions.
- Air Quality: They improve local air quality in city and town centers by allowing electric-only operation where needed.
- Range Flexibility: They offer less dependence on charging infrastructure compared to fully electric vehicles.
Because they use both electric and combustion power, hybrid vans provide continuous operation without numerous trips to charging stations.
Like electric vans, hybrid vans provide a smoother, quieter driving experience when operating on electric power. They also tend to have a higher payload than fully electric vans, allowing them to transport more goods and require fewer trips.
Disadvantages of Hybrid Vans
- Servicing and Maintenance: Hybrid vans can potentially have higher servicing costs compared to their combustion-engine counterparts. This is due to having both electric and combustion components that need to be maintained. When making a purchase, potential buyers should always enquire about the associated maintenance costs and schedules.
- Charging Infrastructure: Owners of Plug-in hybrid vans should ensure that they have access to charging infrastructure to maximize their electric range and reduce fuel costs. Websites like Zap-Map or Pod Point can assist in finding local stations. It might be also useful to install facilities at the place of operation.
- Initial Cost: Hybrid vans are generally more expensive to purchase than diesel vans. Therefore, it is essential to maximize electric-only driving.
- Grants: Hybrid vans are no longer eligible for the government’s plug-in van grant. This grant provides discounts for electric vans, making them more competitive in terms of cost. Payloads and towing capacities of some hybrid models may not be as high as those in diesel models.
Best Hybrid Vans
While the number of hybrid vans available is limited, the top contenders include:
Ford Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid
This van is appealing to those transitioning from diesel who aren’t yet willing to go fully electric. This combination features a 1.0-liter petrol engine, which has an electric motor, and offers a seamless driving experience. The van also features a short electric range and turbocharged power. It offers ample load space and reduces running costs. However, its higher initial cost and limited payload capacity may deter certain buyers.
LEVC VN5
The LEVC VN5 stands out with its London Taxi roots and its range-extender hybrid powertrain. Using a 148bhp electric motor and a 31kWh battery, this van has a 61-mile electric range and a petrol range-extender engine. It is a smooth drive and boasts many standard features.
Toyota Corolla Commercial
This van targets businesses seeking emission reduction without the need for frequent charging. This van leverages the driving experience of the Corolla Touring Sports. Its payload capacity may not meet all needs.
