Van Life Never Looked So Good
Are you ready for the next generation of camper vans? The 2023 Düsseldorf Caravan Salon has just debuted the Ford Transit Custom Nugget camper van, leading in the plug-in hybrid camper van wars. With its intelligent multi-zone floor plan and several powertrain options, including a PHEV that gives the Transit Custom van up to 35 miles of electric range per charge, this new camper van is set to become the new standard for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and van lifers alike.
The Transit Custom Nugget is familiar to the camper van scene. It's been available from third-party manufacturers like Dethleffs and Wellhouse Leisure for several years. Still, Ford is releasing its version with updates to its multi-functionality and powertrain options. One of the most exciting features is the PHEV system, which offers an electric range of up to 35 miles per charge. This means you won't have to worry about finding charging stations or running out of gas during your camping excursions.
The interior has been fully redesigned, with the dash sporting a 13" Touchscreen to handle the vehicle's telemetrics.
A double-sized touchscreen is in the rear to control the rest of the vehicle's functions, such as lighting and HVAC. These functions are also accessible through your mobile smartphone.
The Nugget's multi-zone floor plan is another highlight that differentiates it from its competitors. It includes a kitchenette:
A fold-out table
Configurable seating is also a must for the Nugget with maneuverable seating.
The interior becomes the perfect seating area for entertainment.
Two primary sleeping areas can be quickly converted, starting with converting the passenger seating. By the way, these are heated seats, which means you also have a heated bed.
A comfortable sleeping area is revealed with the pop-up roof.
The roof can be accessed with the included ladder.
The Nugget does quite a bit in including amenities, which are only sometimes seen on a vehicle this size. One such feature is the working hot-water shower, which can be affixed to the fold-up liftgate window:
The Nugget's compact size and maneuverability make driving easy and parking in tight spaces easy. The Nugget will also be available with optional 350W solar panels affixed to the roof for an added off-grid power option.
The new Nugget also offers several powertrain options, including a 2.0L EcoBlue diesel engine with manual or automatic transmission and a 1.0L or 1.5L EcoBoost petrol engine. But the real star of the show is the PHEV option. It provides an impressive electric range, reduces emissions, and saves fuel costs. Ford is committed to electrifying its entire lineup, and the Transit Custom Nugget is a step in the right direction.
One of the most significant advantages of plug-in hybrid camper vans like the Nugget is their environmental impact. They're more fuel-efficient than their traditional counterparts and emit fewer greenhouse gases. Ford has stated they're committed to having zero-emissions vehicles in their European lineup by 2030. The Nugget is a significant step towards reaching this goal.
Conclusion: The Ford Transit Custom Nugget is an exciting addition to the camper van market, offering campers and van lifers a sustainable and practical option for their adventures. Its impressive electric range and innovative multi-zone floor plan make it an ideal vehicle for those who love the outdoors but want to maintain comfort and sustainability. With the Nugget set up for order this month, we can't wait to see how it performs on the road and in the woods. It's clear that the plug-in hybrid camper van wars are heating up, and we're excited to see what other manufacturers will bring to the table in the coming years.