DUNTON, UK – Early starts, late finishes and overnight shifts mean driving in sub-zero temperatures can remain a regular occurrence for hardworking businesses even into spring. Now, a patented Ford technology can help Ford Pro electric vehicles drive further between recharges so their owners can get more done in cold weather.
Fitted as standard to every Ford E-Transit Custom, E-Tourneo Custom and enhanced range E-Transit, the company’s innovative Vapour-Injected Heat Pump (VIHP) technology provides an efficient way to warm the cabin by capturing heat energy from the air outside – even at temperatures far below -10°C.
Heating the cabin by capturing “free” energy reduces the battery power consumed to keep drivers warm and comfortable – meaning more energy in the battery for getting the job done.
During testing in real world and sophisticated laboratory environments, Ford engineers found the technology could improve the enhanced range E-Transit’s driving range between 7 per cent and 10 per cent when compared with a vehicle without a heat pump.
“For business that use vans, every kilometre travelled between top ups means less downtime and more money earned. We’re chasing every kilometre to maximise efficiency and make electric fleets more productive and cost-effective for hard-working businesses,” said Ingo Krolewski, supervisor, Climate Attribute and Controls, Ford.
