Specialist converter GM Coachwork has revealed what it says is a first in the UK, a minibus based on the Ford E-Transit fitted with 16 seats. Following up to a year of development, the firm says its Ford E-Transit 16 seat minibus is now available to order.
GM says the IVA type-approved conversion uses the same tried and trusted Transit formula of rugged dependency and everyday practicality with the benefits of a fully electric vehicle added to it. It uses the L3 H3 base vehicle weighing in at 4,250kg. The rear cabin features 13 seats with integral all-age belts, LED lighting, two emergency exits, opening side windows and a wipe-clean levelled floor for easy maintenance.
To aid entry for passengers a manual side step is included along with side entrance handrails and a courtesy panel. The E-Transit is also available with wheelchair access, including an electric passenger lift and removable seats.
With prices starting at £69,995 and a quick charge time of just over 30 minutes, GM Coachwork says the E-Transit gives customers the confidence they need to complete day-to-day vehicle movements, whilst compared to the diesel equivalent the EV variant only loses one seat, while benefiting from being able to operate in low emission zones risk- and fine-free, not forgetting the savings in lower maintenance and repair costs.
GM Coachworks Managing Director Graham Vooght commented: “It is testament to the hard work of everyone that GM is the first to market with a unique product such as this new E-Transit. I’m very proud to think that yet again we really do show we are leading the field. Transit is such a known name and Ford’s dealer network is the biggest so as a product it makes a lot of sense and will certainly be a very popular addition to anyone’s fleet, no matter the size.”