The all-electric Ford E-Tourneo Custom is making waves in the UK’s private hire and airport transfer sector. With its nine-seat configuration (eight passengers plus driver), generous luggage capacity, and eco-friendly credentials, it’s being hailed as a game-changer for the industry.
Electric Range and Performance
Powered by a 74 kWh battery and a 160 kW (218 PS) electric motor, the E-Tourneo Custom offers a WLTP-rated range of up to 202 miles on a single charge. It supports 125 kW DC fast charging, allowing for a 15–80% top-up in around 40 minutes. For home or depot charging, the 11 kW AC onboard charger can fully recharge the battery in under eight hours.
Seating and Luggage Capacity
Designed with practicality in mind, the E-Tourneo Custom accommodates up to eight passengers across three rows of seating. The flexible seating system allows for various configurations, including conference-style layouts. When it comes to luggage, it offers a generous load space of up to 5,472 litres, providing ample room for multiple suitcases and travel gear.
Real-World Range Considerations
While the official range is impressive, real-world conditions can affect performance. Fully loading the vehicle with eight passengers and a boot full of luggage adds significant weight and drag, which can reduce the effective driving range. Additional factors like driving style, terrain, and climate control usage also play a role in battery efficiency.
Features Tailored for Transfers
The E-Tourneo Custom is equipped with features that enhance both driver and passenger experience. The Ford SYNC 4 infotainment system with a 13-inch touchscreen offers smooth connectivity, navigation, and smart controls. With sliding doors, USB ports, and a comfortable, spacious cabin, it’s built for airport runs and long-distance journeys.
Final Thoughts
As the demand for greener transport grows, the Ford E-Tourneo Custom stands out as a serious contender for the future of airport transfers. It’s clean, quiet, and practical – ticking all the right boxes for private hire operators looking to modernise their fleet. However, the limited real-world range could still be a sticking point. For long-distance transfers or multiple airport runs in a day, especially with a full load of passengers and luggage, drivers may find themselves needing to recharge more frequently than desired. Until charging infrastructure improves further and battery technology advances, range anxiety may remain a hurdle for some operators.
Thanks for visiting DM News. If you would like to get in touch, comment or share your story then get in touch via Driver Matty’s Instagram or Patreon Chat.
