In keeping with the goals of expanding electric vehicles and solving mobility issues, Ford has begun to expand its plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEVs) trials. Specifically, the company has brought testing of its Transit Custom PHEV to Valencia, Spain. Currently, Ford is focusing much of its PHEV testing and development in Europe.
Prior to the Transit PHEV fleet being tested in Valencia, the company was focusing its key trials in London. The unique structure of the city, combined with how densely-packed its residents and commuters are, resulted in a prime location to test PHEVs. The goal of these next-generation vehicles is to solve mobility issues that come with city life, with pollution and gridlocked traffic being at the forefront.
Working in Valencia will share some similarities to London, but will be a different experience for Ford. Steven Armstrong, president and CEO, Ford of Europe, Middle East & Africa, said this on the matter, “As no two cities are alike, it is vital that we look at the mobility issue from a variety of perspectives. Our research in Valencia will help us gain a meaningful understanding of the benefits that small and medium fleets running primarily on electric power can bring.”
As the world continues to grow and change, cities will also continue to grow in scope and population. Even excluding residents, many people commute into the city. Ford is going a long way in ensuring that transportation within these large cities does not become impossible by expanding its electric vehicle fleet and by solving mobility issues.