The E-Transit is an interesting alternative to its gas-powered sibling. Its EPA-estimated range of 126 miles isn't stellar and that limits this van to use in cities. Luckily, it fills that role quite well, and features including its massive cargo hold and an option that will let you charge tools, plus its zero learning curve, make it an even more attractive proposition. If you own a flower shop, a catering business, or make multiple trips on a usual workday in urban environments, the E-Transit makes a lot of sense. Just be sure to charge it up every night before you go home.
Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the Edmunds YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.
Pros
Less costly to run than gas-powered alternatives
Smart features for commercial users
Onboard power for mobile services
Cons
126-mile range limit
No one-pedal driving
Loud, rumbly interior
What's new
New features, including a virtual rearview mirror and interior shelving
Minor shuffling of features and options
Part of the first E-Transit generation introduced for 2022
Overview
Vans are the go-to choice for commercial vehicles that provide an enclosed space for parcels, tools and whatever your business needs to move. With the shift away from the old Econolines and Express vans, the newer models from Europe have fulfilled the need for more efficient and maneuverable alternatives. If you've wanted an electric van, however, you'd likely need a specialized contract with one of the few niche manufacturers. That's all changed with the Ford E-Transit, the first widely available all-electric van for sale in the U.S.
You'll have a tough time spotting one in the wild since they look almost identical to the existing Ford Transit. The E-Transit is also available in a variety of body styles, wheelbase lengths and roof heights. But unlike the Transit, which can be ordered with up to 14 seats, the E-Transit is only offered in bare-bones Cargo configuration or as a Cutaway or Chassis Cab for more specialized uses.
The E-Transit could be a big hit with businesses, but there is a rather significant limitation: range. It has an estimated range of only 126 miles. That should set off alarm bells with a lot of interested shoppers, though Ford is quick to point out that the average city commercial van averages only 74 miles in a day. On the plus side, it's capable of DC fast charging and the battery should be replenished with plenty of range in the course of a lunch break.
That puts the 2023 Ford E-Transit in a unique position, at least for a few months. When the 2024 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter goes on sale this summer, it'll be the E-Transit's only EV van rival. Early estimates give the eSprinter a huge advantage, with around 250 miles of range. The big concern is cost, as regular Sprinters already cost more than the competition. Besides the obvious advantages that the electric E-Transit enjoys in regard to operating costs, there are also a few smart features and some drawbacks we cover in our Expert Rating below. It could help you decide whether to commit to an E-Transit or wait for the eSprinter.
Edmunds Expert Rating
average
7.6/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
The E-Transit is an interesting alternative to its gas-powered sibling. Its EPA-estimated range of 126 miles isn't stellar and that limits this van to use in cities. Luckily, it fills that role quite well, and features including its massive cargo hold and an option that will let you charge tools, plus its zero learning curve, make it an even more attractive proposition. If you own a flower shop, a catering business, or make multiple trips on a usual workday in urban environments, the E-Transit makes a lot of sense. Just be sure to charge it up every night before you go home.
How does the E-Transit Cargo Van drive? The E-Transit drives, perhaps unsurprisingly, like a van. Acceleration numbers aren't blistering, but a 0-60 mph run of 8.4 seconds is quick enough for a vehicle of this type. The more important figure is the E-Transit's 0 to 30 mph sprint of 3.7 seconds, perfect for driving in cities.
Braking is equally as van-like, taking 140 feet to stop from 60 mph. For context, heavy-duty pickup trucks often stop in similar distances. Load the van with cargo, and braking will only get longer. Unlike some other EVs, there is no one-pedal driving. The E-Transit wasn't built to be a handling all-star, but it is easy to drive and use on a day-to-day basis thanks to its fully electric powertrain. Its smooth power delivery off the line and relaxed throttle response make it easy to accelerate and bring to controlled stops.
Comfort
6.5/10
How comfortable is the E-Transit Cargo Van? The E-Transit is comfortable enough on the day to day. The ride is on the firmer side, even when it's unladen, and as a result the E-Transit can skip around over bumps and expansion joints at times. The seats aren't particularly supportive, but they offer adequate adjustability and can lie almost completely flat for a nap while charging up.
But the seats and the ride aren't actually the E-Transit's biggest knock when it comes to comfort. Simply put, it is loud inside. Despite a whisper-quiet EV powertrain, there is essentially no sound-deadening material, and wind noise abounds inside. On top of that, the van's rear metal panels are thin and wobble around on the rear part of the E-Transit's frame, causing an absolute cacophony while driving on city streets. Earplugs might not be the worst idea.
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How’s the interior? We try to avoid cliches, but function over form has never applied more literally than on the inside of the E-Transit. There are simply so few things to adjust and toy with that you'll likely never find yourself distracted. Inside you get a center-mounted infotainment screen, an easy-to-read gauge cluster and a steering wheel. That's it, and for a van with a focus on work and not play, it strikes us as more than adequate. The driving position is a little too high and the pedals feel a little awkwardly positioned, but those are the E-Transit's biggest faults in this area.
Other parts of the cargo van are full of helpful features too. The LED lighting inside the cargo hold is extremely bright and the rear doors can be held open by a small latch system. There are also tie-downs for securing cargo, a tough floor that looks and feels as though it will withstand plenty of abuse, and a side door for easy curbside loading. Visibility isn't as bad as you might think for a panel van thanks to a tall, upright windshield and large side mirrors.
Technology
8.0/10
How’s the tech? While creature comforts aren't really this van's first priority, there is some handy tech here. The audio system is sufficient, and Ford's most recent iteration of its Sync infotainment system was a cinch to use. It features wired or wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that worked faultlessly in our time with the car. The screen is also snappy to respond and quick to boot up.
Though the E-Transit's roster of driver aids wouldn't bring much notice in a typical car, having the option for niceties like blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control in a panel van are hugely helpful. They take a lot of stress out of the day-to-day grind these vans often face and are likely to be appreciated by E-Transit drivers.
Storage
9.5/10
How’s the storage? As you might imagine, storage is where this cargo van shines. In our test car's low-roof, standard-length configuration it has a maximum cargo capacity of 277.7 cubic feet of cargo space. Frankly, that felt like a large enough space to live in for an extended amount of time, and with the option to add Pro Power Onboard (an option that turns the E-Transit in to a massive power supply), we wouldn't be surprised if the E-Transit was soon picked up as the next big thing in the #vanlife movement.
Its maximum hauling rating is another strong point. In the configuration we had, the E-Transit can haul up to 3,880 pounds, which is on par with much of the gas-powered Transit range. Bear in mind, however, that driving around at max payload will negatively impact the E-Transit's already limited range.
Range and Efficiency
7.0/10
How are the range and efficiency? The EPA says the Ford E-Transit will get 126 miles of range on a single charge. While that was too short a distance for us to run our real-world range test, we found over the course of two weeks that the E-Transit was slightly more efficient than that number suggests. Granted, we did drive it around with almost no payload and in Eco mode for most of our use. Ford says the E-Transit can charge at a max rate of 115 kW, and a fast charger will fill up the battery from 15% to 80% capacity in 34 minutes. Ford's optional Connected Charge Station can add 15 miles of charger per hour.
Value
7.0/10
Is the E-Transit Cargo Van a good value? A base E-Transit is around $6,000 more than a gas-powered Transit of the same size. Our test car had a few key options fitted (like Pro Power Onboard, the HID projector headlights, parking assistance and a few others) that brought the total cost to just over $56,000. When you consider this is one of the first products of its kind, and factor in Ford's excellent fleet-vehicle support program, Ford Pro, the E-Transit becomes a solid value proposition. It's not ruinously expensive and competes very closely with its internal combustion engine counterparts in nearly every measurable way.
Ford's warranty coverage for the E-Transit is average for the segment. Federal regulation mandates EV manufacturers cover the battery for at least eight years or 100,000 miles. And Ford offers three years/36,000 miles of basic maintenance, five years/60,000 miles of roadside assistance, and a five-year/unlimited mile warranty for rust on top of that.
Wildcard
7.0/10
The E-Transit isn't going to win any awards for the way it handles, but it is a completely new take on Ford's storied Transit family of vehicles. Those who use their vans every day will appreciate its cavernous space and innovative features that make hauling gear, flowers, food or whatever else a cinch. If the Transit had more range it would be even more appealing, but for now it proves that EVs can be used as cargo vans too.
Which E-Transit Cargo Van does Edmunds recommend?
There's only one trim level for the E-Transit and most commercial shoppers have specific needs that dictate which body style to go for. We do suggest adding several available safety features because visibility will likely be compromised. These include a blind-spot warning system, a surround-view camera system, a virtual rearview mirror and parking sensors.
Ford E-Transit Cargo Van models
The 2023 Ford E-Transit is offered in three body styles: Cargo, Cutaway and Chassis Cab. The enclosed Cargo van is the most popular, while the Cutaway and Chassis Cab are intended for more specialized uses and customization. There are also three wheelbase lengths to choose from: regular, long and extended, but only the Cargo van is eligible for the long wheelbase. The Cargo van is also offered in low-, medium- and high-roof configurations.
All E-Transit models come with a 68-kWh lithium-ion battery pack that powers a single motor (266 horsepower, 317 lb-ft of torque) that drives the rear wheels. Range is estimated at 126 miles for the low-roof Cargo Van.
E-Transit
This sole trim level comes with basic features and not much more. These include:
16-inch steel wheels with plastic covers
Split rear doors
Sliding passenger-side door
Keyless entry
Manually adjustable vinyl front seats
Air conditioning
Vinyl flooring
Vinyl upholstery
Ford Pro fleet remote monitoring
Wi-Fi hotspot
12-inch infotainment touchscreen
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Standard safety features include:
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane keeping assistance (steers the vehicle back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
Crosswind assistance (helps the driver stay on course in windy conditions)
Rain-sensing wipers
Automatic high beams
In addition to the many custom outfitters looking to create your perfect workhorse, Ford offers several upgrades from the factory:
Alloy wheels
Pro Power Onboard (uses the main batteries to power tool and accessories)
Navigation
Satellite radio
Interior shelving options
Additional audio speakers
Cloth upholstery
Upgraded headlights
Wider-opening doors
Split side doors
Keyless entry keypad
Optional features include:
Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
Blind-spot warning (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
Surround-view camera system (Cargo only; gives you a top-down view of the vehicle and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
Virtual rearview mirror (Cargo only; allows you to see out the back even with a fully loaded cargo area)
Automatic reverse braking (applies the brakes automatically to avoid an imminent collision with an object behind the vehicle)
Traffic sign reader
Semi-automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with little or no driver intervention)
Front, rear and side parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible around the vehicle when parking)
I bought this on the recommendation of a fellow contractor. So far I have put about 100 miles on the vehicle.
Speed and acceleration are good. Without a load. I plan to haul 1000 to 1500lbs of hardwood flooring equipment, we shall see how the battery deals with that. The vehicle loses a lot of momentum when you take your foot off the accelator as it captures energy with the … transmission. It's pretty fun to go down a big hill and see your battery go up though!
Ford pass software didnt work. Called Ford tech support and they helped me authenticate the vehicle.
Android auto worked sporadically before I got the fordpass software to work and only if you turn off your phones wifi connection to the vehicle. After authenticating the Ford software I had some trouble getting Android auto to pair with the vehicle.
Seats are comfy, vehicle is pretty loud without a bulkhead/partition. I will be adding that shortly.
The salesman refused to tell me how long it takes to charge on 110v. The answer is 98 HOURS. Realistically you must charge on a 220 plug. I charged from 60% to 95% in about four hours. The mobile 220 charger that comes with the vehicle is capable of charging an empty battery in about 12 hours. Read the manual on battery charging! It's recommended to not charge to 100% and to schedule a couple hour charge delay after getting home so that the battery can cool prior to charging.
I anticipate significant tax savings based on the section 179 depreciation deduction. My contractor friend estimates the electricity to operate the vehicle costs about $100 per month! As of 2nd quarter 2022 it appears there is also a $7500 federal tax credit. It will phase out so check with your accountant.
Ford E-Transit Cargo Van vs. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
The Sprinter is offered in a dizzying array of body styles and configurations and is also available with either a gasoline or diesel engine. It's also available as a cargo or a passenger van, which could make ordering significantly easier if you're shuttling more than one person. Of course the E-Transit gains a huge advantage in terms of its cost to operate, but the Sprinter has a trick up its sleeve. Just scroll down a little bit.
Ford E-Transit Cargo Van vs. Mercedes-Benz eSprinter
The new Mercedes-Benz eSprinter makes its debut in the summer of 2023 and ensures the E-Transit won't be the only all-electric game in town. It offers the same kind of customization and smart features for commercial use as the E-Transit, but it absolutely crushes the Ford with an estimated range around 250 miles. We don't have pricing yet, but expect it to cost more than the E-Transit.
Ford E-Transit Cargo Van vs. Ram Promaster Cargo Van
The Ram ProMaster is a bit of an also-ran in the van class when compared to its direct rivals. It's hobbled by some noticeable comfort issues, both in terms of seating and ride quality. Like the E-Transit, it's available in a wide variety of body styles, including a five-passenger crew model, but there's no sign of a hybrid or EV powertrain on the way.
Our experts’ favorite E-Transit Cargo Van safety features:
Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
Warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios.
Lane Keeping System
Steers the vehicle back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker.
Blind Spot Assist 1.0
Alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot.
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FAQ
Is the Ford E-Transit Cargo Van a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 E-Transit Cargo Van both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.6 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2023 E-Transit Cargo Van gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 1 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that carrying capacity for the E-Transit Cargo Van ranges from 246.7 to 487.3 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Ford E-Transit Cargo Van. Learn more
What's new in the 2023 Ford E-Transit Cargo Van?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Ford E-Transit Cargo Van:
New features, including a virtual rearview mirror and interior shelving
Minor shuffling of features and options
Part of the first E-Transit generation introduced for 2022
To determine whether the Ford E-Transit Cargo Van is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the E-Transit Cargo Van. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the E-Transit Cargo Van's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2023 Ford E-Transit Cargo Van a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Ford E-Transit Cargo Van is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 E-Transit Cargo Van and gave it a 7.6 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2023 E-Transit Cargo Van gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 1 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 E-Transit Cargo Van is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2023 Ford E-Transit Cargo Van?
The least-expensive 2023 Ford E-Transit Cargo Van is the 2023 Ford E-Transit Cargo Van 350 Low Roof 3dr Van w/130" WB (electric DD). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $53,790.
Other versions include:
350 Low Roof 3dr Van w/130" WB (electric DD) which starts at $53,790
350 Medium Roof 3dr Van w/130" WB (electric DD) which starts at $54,555
350 Low Roof 3dr Van w/148" WB (electric DD) which starts at $55,000
350 Medium Roof 3dr Van w/148" WB (electric DD) which starts at $55,770
350 High Roof 3dr Van w/148" WB (electric DD) which starts at $57,810
350 High Roof 3dr Ext Van w/148" WB (electric DD) which starts at $58,970
What are the different models of Ford E-Transit Cargo Van?
If you're interested in the Ford E-Transit Cargo Van, the next question is, which E-Transit Cargo Van model is right for you? E-Transit Cargo Van variants include 350 Low Roof 3dr Van w/130" WB (electric DD), 350 Medium Roof 3dr Van w/130" WB (electric DD), 350 Low Roof 3dr Van w/148" WB (electric DD), and 350 Medium Roof 3dr Van w/148" WB (electric DD). For a full list of E-Transit Cargo Van models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more