Ford Introduces the Nugget Vehicle with Plug-In Hybrid Technology
The Ford Transit Custom Nugget PHEV, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) camper van, is set to make its debut by the end of the year. While pricing details are yet to be announced, the new model promises to offer a unique blend of comfort, functionality, and eco-friendliness.
Based on the upcoming generation of the Ford Transit Custom and Tourneo Custom series, the Nugget PHEV features a 2.5-liter gasoline engine, a 11.8 kWh battery, and an electric motor, delivering a combined system power of 171 kW (233 PS). This powertrain is similar to that of the Ford Kuga PHEV, ensuring a smooth and efficient driving experience.
The interior of the new Nugget has been completely redesigned, maintaining the concept of separate zones for kitchen, living, and sleeping. The kitchen now boasts an L-shaped layout and a new drawer refrigerator that accommodates large, upright bottles. LED lighting with customizable ambient color illuminates the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The seating areas are designed for comfortable long tours and can transform into dining areas or sleeping options. The three-seater bench in the living area slides on rails and can be adjusted with one hand. Up to three passengers can be accommodated in the rear, and passengers can move around freely, cook, or enter and exit even when both double beds are fully set up.
A hot water supply is now standard in the Nugget's kitchen, and heated seating is available for the specially designed three-seater bench in the living area. An optional solar roof is available for off-grid power, and a tilt indicator aids in leveling the Nugget on uneven surfaces.
From the factory, the future warm/cold water external shower in the rear area is included in the Nugget's equipment. New speakers and USB-C interfaces have also been added, and upon request, the rotating "captain's chairs" for the driver and passenger can be heated and ventilated.
A 7-inch touchscreen color monitor controls the Nugget's functions, including the heater and battery/water level indicators. A dedicated app allows remote control of the Nugget's features via smartphone, and the van comes with a built-in 5G modem and wireless phone charging induction field.
While specific electric-only range and consumption figures for the Nugget PHEV are not detailed, the data for the closely related Ford Transit Custom PHEV van can provide a reliable indication. The Transit Custom PHEV claims an all-electric driving range of up to 35 miles under ideal conditions, but real-world testing has shown that range can drop to around 15 miles in cold weather due to reduced battery efficiency.
In conclusion, the Ford Transit Custom Nugget PHEV is expected to offer an all-electric range similar to the standard Transit Custom PHEV van, typically up to 35 miles under optimal conditions, but less in cold weather. Official consumption figures for the Nugget PHEV are not published, but real-world experience with the van variant suggests similar efficiency patterns.
The new Transit Custom Nugget PHEV is presented at Caravan Salon Düsseldorf, showcasing Ford's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the camper van market.
- The Ford Transit Custom Nugget PHEV, set to debut by the end of the year, will be a new offering in the automotive industry, showcasing Ford's dedication to finance and innovation in the transportation sector.
- The new Nugget PHEV boasts a unique blend of lifestyle amenities, as it features an interior redesign with state-of-the-art appliances, such as an L-shaped kitchen layout, a new drawer refrigerator, LED lighting, and standard hot water supply.
- In terms of car maintenance and eco-friendliness, the Nugget PHEV is powered by a 2.5-liter gasoline engine, a 11.8 kWh battery, and an electric motor, providing a combined system power similar to that of the Ford Kuga PHEV for efficient driving.
- With the introduction of electric vehicles like the Nugget PHEV, Ford is taking strides in the automotive industry to promote sustainability and minimize carbon footprints, contributing to a greener lifestyle for its customers.
