Ford has introduced a new Explorer Van. Ford has converted its electric Explorer SUV into an N1 commercial vehicle aimed at fleet operators needing longer range than smaller electric vans currently provide. The model has been developed by Ford Pro’s specialist converters following requests from fleet customers seeking greater driving range than vehicles such as the E-Transit Courier.
The Explorer Van is built through an in-house conversion at Ford’s Dagenham Conversion Centre, where the rear seats are removed and a bulkhead, lashing points and cargo dividers are installed to meet N1 commercial vehicle classification requirements. The result is a compact electric van with approximately 1,460 litres of loadspace and around 650 kg of payload for light commercial use.
Two powertrain versions are planned for the new Explorer. The Explorer Select RWD with a 77 kWh battery offers a WLTP range of up to 373 miles, while the Explorer Select AWD with a 79 kWh battery delivers around 353 miles with the added traction of all-wheel drive. These figures place it well above the typical range offered by smaller electric vans, which can be important for fleets covering longer regional routes or operating in areas with limited charging access.
The Explorer Van also introduces additional configuration options aimed at operational use, including a Utility Pack with roof rack and storage features, a Welfare Pack with safety and hygiene equipment, and a Commercial Pack with additional lighting and warning beacons.
From a tax perspective the model benefits from its classification as a commercial van rather than a passenger car. As long as the electric van is used 100% for business use, there is no company van tax applicable.
Employers will still need to report van benefits through the normal P11D process until payrolling becomes mandatory from April 2027, although workplace charging of electric vehicles does not create a taxable benefit.
The new Explorer Van will initially be offered on a fleet-only basis with a minimum order quantity during launch, and Ford is expected to gauge interest when the vehicle appears publicly at the Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham later this year. Pricing and confirmation of eligibility for the Plug-in Van Grant have not yet been confirmed, with Ford stating that an application for the grant is currently in progress.
For fleet operators assessing electric van options, the Explorer Van’s combination of passenger-car comfort and extended electric range offers an alternative to traditional small vans, particularly where long daily mileage is more critical than maximum cargo volume.
Talk to our van leasing specialists on 01283 351251 if you are interested in leasing the Ford Explorer Van.
