GENEVA – Ford is showcasing a development version of its zero-emission Transit Connect Electric at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

Based on a Transit Connect Kombi the show car is one of several electric Ford vehicles currently on test in the UK and features the same battery electric power train as the Transit Connect Electric Van, which is set to go on sale in Europe later this year. The Transit Connect Electric Van is a pure electric-powered version of the Transit Connect.

With 28kWh of power to call on, Transit Connect Electric has a top speed of 120km/h (75mph ) and a range of up to 130km/80 miles. Its lithium-ion battery pack is charged via a standard power outlet – an onboard converter then charges the battery pack. Fully charging the batteries using standard European 220/240-volt outlets takes up to 10 hours.

With a cargo volume 3.8 m³ and a payload of 410kg, Transit Connect Electric Van will appeal to operators who travel predictable, short-range routes with frequent stop and go driving.

The Transit Connect Electric Van goes on sale in European markets later this year following its successful launch in North America in December 2010.