2027 Ford E-Transit Cargo Van
View more photosPros
- Less costly to run than gas-powered alternatives
- Useful available upgrades for commercial users
- Onboard power is exportable to external tools
Cons
- Less range than rival electric vans
- Uncomfortable seating
- Loud, rumbly interior
Overview
The 2027 Ford E-Transit cargo van is a niche vehicle, but if you need a massive zero-emissions cargo van and don't mind a short-ish range, it could be perfect for your needs. It's available in different lengths and three different roof heights, with a single electric motor driving the rear wheels. It's also highly customizable, both straight from the factory and dealership and by numerous upfitters that can spec out the E-Transit for virtually any task. The downside is the battery. It has a capacity of 89 kWh, which translates to 159 miles of EPA-estimated range in a vehicle this size. That's not a lot, but if that range works for you, the lack of fuel and engine maintenance could be a money saver in the long run. The only noteworthy change this year is that the Tesla-style NACS charging adapter, which was standard last year, is now an option.
Edmunds Expert Rating
We drove the 2027 Ford E-Transit Cargo Van on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.
Driving experience
Braking is equally van-like, taking 140 feet to stop from 60 mph. Heavy-duty pickup trucks often require similar distances. Handling? Best avoided. The E-Transit's firm ride and suspension mean it will skip around over bumps and expansion joints when unladen.
Visibility isn't as bad as you'd think for a panel van thanks to a tall, upright windshield and large side mirrors. The slate of driver aids wouldn't impress much in a typical car, but options like a digital rearview mirror, surround-view camera system, blind-spot warning and warning sensors reduce a lot of the stress of piloting a tall cargo van.
Comfort
Although the driving position is a little too high and the pedals are awkwardly positioned, these are really the E-Transit's only major comfort deficiencies. Conversely, there are some thoughtful touches, such as the bright LED lighting in the cargo area and the small latch system that holds open the rear doors for loading. There are also tie-downs for securing cargo, a tough floor built to withstand abuse, and a sliding side door for easy curbside loading.
In-cabin tech
Storage & cargo
Its maximum hauling rating is another strong point. In the configuration we had, the E-Transit can haul up to 3,320 pounds, which isn't much less than the gas-powered Transit. Bear in mind, however, that driving around at max payload will negatively impact the E-Transit's already limited range.
Value
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.
MPG
Ford says the E-Transit can charge at a max power of 176 kW. This isn't particularly quick by modern EV standards, but the E-Transit will have no problem recharging overnight.
X factor
2027 Ford E-Transit Cargo Van trim level differences
The 2027 Ford E-Transit Cargo is a two-passenger electric cargo van sold in low-roof, medium-roof and high-roof configurations. Choose the high-roof version, and an extended body style is available to maximize cargo space. An 89-kWh battery pack is standard in the E-Transit Cargo. It powers a single electric motor (266 horsepower, 317 lb-ft of torque) that drives the van's rear wheels. Depending on the roof height, the E-Transit can travel as far as an EPA-estimated 159 miles on a full battery.
Which E-Transit trim does Edmunds recommend?
We think the medium-roof Long version of the Transit is the best combination of size and cargo capacity among all E-Transits. But any of these configurations is just a starting point for customization to serve your needs. And now that they come standard with so many driver assist features, there's less need to upgrade.
Competitors to consider
Consider the Ram ProMaster EV, Mercedes-Benz eSprinter and the Rivian Commercial Van. The eSprinter costs a bit more but is available with a larger optional battery for more range, and even the Ram ProMaster exceeds the E-Transit's range by a little bit. Commercial van use cases are as varied as the vans themselves. If you're shopping for a cargo van, you owe it to yourself to look at the specifics of each one to be sure you get the van that best suits your needs.