XL Hybrids, Inc., a provider of fleet electrification solutions for commercial and municipal fleets, announced its XL3 Hybrid Electric Drive System has now been adapted for the Ford Transit van – the first hybrid electric Transit van for the North American market. The XL3 system will allow fleets to increase fuel economy and boost low-end torque, while enhancing sustainability on Ford’s top-selling new van platform.
“The Ford Transit is a much-anticipated addition to XL Hybrids’ product lineup as Ford fleet customers take more and more steps to enhance fuel economy and sustainability,” says Dr. Edward Lovelace, chief technology officer for XL Hybrids. “The Ford Transit unibody construction poses significant challenges for alternative ‘fueled’ vehicle upfits, but because of the simple compact design of the XL3 technology we were able to integrate our hybrid electric system to the Transit without any impact to cargo or passenger space.”
The XL3 Hybrid System is compatible with all Transit wheelbases and roof heights, and with both the 3.7L and EcoBoost gasoline engines providing 20 percent fuel and CO2 savings. The XL3 hybrid system, which adds less than 400 pounds to the vehicle, is installed aft of the transmission in about six hours. The Ford OEM factory warranty stays intact, while the XL3 hybrid powertrain components are covered by a three-year, 75,000 mile warranty.
The XL3 hybrid system has had a quick adoption rate for commercial fleets since there is no need for special plugs, charging or fueling infrastructure. The technology works seamlessly in the background with zero impact on fleet operations or service, and no driver training or infrastructure requirements.
The XL3 hybrid system for Ford Transit joins XL Hybrids’ growing catalog of Ford-compatible products such as XL3 systems for Ford Econoline vans and wagons, and Ford E350/E450 cutaways.
XL Hybrids’ new Ford Transit van will be on display at the Annual Ford Fleet Preview at AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas, on May 5, 2015.
