Industry News
Smith Electric Vehicles launches battery-electric Transit Connect conversion
17th April 2008
The Smith Ampere van based on Ford’s Transit Connect was launched at this week’s CV Show by Smith Electric Vehicles, part of the Tanfield Group. Smith already produces an electric version of the Transit and this latest addition to its range follows the same principles that Smith adopted for the larger van.
The load area is exactly as it is in a standard Transit Connect, because the lithium phosphate batteries are housed in a compartment beneath the load floor. The Ampere can carry an 800kg payload, down some 100kg on the Transit Connect's maximum; Smith has kept the weight of the batteries and electric motor down to around 80kg. The vehicle’s 50kW (67bhp) electric motor provide a top speed of 70mph, while the batteries provide a range of about 100 miles between charges.
Smith is pitching the van at delivery fleets operating in urban areas such as postal and courier services and utility customers. Production will begin this autumn.
- The Port Talbot-based Stevens Vehicles electric light van manufacturer said it had a good first day at the CV Show, the SMMT reported yesterday. The firm launched its new, built-to-order Zevan at the show at a price of £11,995.
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