A zero-emissions full electric system just became available for Ford Transit passenger wagon, van, cutaway and chassis cab models.
The Ford Transit wagon is a vehicle that frequently finds use in airport shuttle and similar operations. Developed by Lightning Systems in partnership with controls maker New Eagle, The LightningElectric zero-emissions package is available for Ford Transit as part of Ford’s eQVM program. The product will be available first on heavy-duty Transits with a 10,360-lb gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and will go on sale in early 2018. Conversions and service are performed by Ford QVM-certified upfitters and dealers.
Lightning Systems won’t say which companies supply the electric motors, inverters, or batteries for the system. However, specifications for the new system include operation at 360 Vdc, a nominal system power of 135 kW/175 HP peak, system torque up to 2,100 Nm gearbox output, a lithium-ion battery pack capacity of 20 to 80 kWh, an electric range of 25 to 125 miles (depending on battery pack size and drive cycle), a re-charge time of 4 to 10 hours (depending on charger and battery pack options), a payload of 1,000-3,500 lbs (depending on battery pack size), and a 55 mph max speed.
Lightning Systems worked with New Eagle of Ann Arbor, Mich. on the design of the LightningElectric system for the Ford Transit. New Eagle specializes in mechatronic controls and works in applying model-based design to real-time embedded systems in the fields of autonomy, electrification, hydraulics, and engine systems.
Ford Motor Company’s vehicle warranty covers vehicles with the LightningElectric upfit, and Ford Motor Credit financing is available. Installation can be completed in just hours by certified installers. Featuring a volume-production ready high-voltage lithium battery pack, LightningElectric will accommodate full charging overnight with Level 1 and less than three hours for Level 2 charging.
Lightning Systems, formerly known as Lightning Hybrids, has headquarters in Loveland, Colo. Earlier this year, Ford named Lightning Systems one of the first to achieve eQVM status (Advanced Fuel Qualified Vehicle Modifiers) for its LightningHybrid system, a hydraulic hybrid energy recovery system that offers 50 percent NOx reductions and up to 25 percent fuel savings for urban drive cycles. Applications include delivery trucks, shuttle and paratransit buses, refuse trucks, and rear-engine transit buses. The system is available now, worldwide on more than 25 platforms.
LightningAnalytics, a new cloud-based analytics system that provides drive, route and predictive vehicle health scoring for maximum range and efficiency, is included on every LightningElectric vehicle. The analytics system provides fleets with real-time information to operate their fleet at peak efficiency. LightningAnalytics also is available with the LightningHybrid system, and is available as a standalone product with a variety of modules to provide efficiency solutions to fleets.
Leave a Reply