PlugShare has updated its mobile app with a new interface and features. The EV charger locator service’s most important new feature is a trip planner, which shows charging stations within five miles of the specified route (that range is expected to become adjustable with future updates). Other new features include a local charging activity viewer, bookmarks, messaging, leaderboards, a customizable user profile, and new search options. Users can now specify specific plug types or charging networks in their search for charging options. Check out the rundown of the updated app at Green Car Reports.
XL Hybrids has created a hybrid system for the Ford Transit. The conversion company has adapted its XL3 Hybrid Electric Drive System for Ford’s popular van, allowing for better fuel economy and low-end torque. The system works with model year 2015 and 2016 cargo and passenger versions of the Ford Transit, powered by either the 3.7-liter or the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, regardless of the wheelbase or roof height. It can improve fuel economy and CO2 emissions by about 20 percent. Vans with the XL3 system installed retain their factory warranty, and the hybrid system comes with a three-year, 75,000-mile warranty from XL Hybrids. Read more in the press release below.
The XL3 Hybrid Electric Drive System to be compatible with MY2015 and MY2016 Ford Transit cargo vans and passenger wagons
BOSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–XL Hybrids, Inc., the leader in fleet electrification solutions for commercial and municipal fleets, today announced its XL3 Hybrid Electric Drive System has now been adapted for the Ford Transit van – the first hybrid electric Transit van for the North American market. The XL3 system will allow fleets to increase fuel economy and boost low-end torque, while enhancing sustainability on Ford’s top-selling new van platform.
“The Ford Transit is a much-anticipated addition to XL Hybrids’ product lineup as Ford fleet customers take more and more steps to enhance fuel economy and sustainability,” said Dr. Edward Lovelace, chief technology officer for XL Hybrids. “The Ford Transit unibody construction poses significant challenges for alternative ‘fueled’ vehicle upfits, but because of the simple compact design of the XL3 technology we were able to integrate our hybrid electric system to the Transit without any impact to cargo or passenger space.”
The XL3 Hybrid System is compatible with all Transit wheelbases and roof heights, and with both the 3.7 liter and EcoBoost gasoline engines providing 20 percent fuel and CO2 savings*. The XL3 hybrid system, which adds less than 400 pounds to the vehicle, is installed aft of the transmission in about six hours. The Ford OEM factory warranty stays intact, while the XL3 hybrid powertrain components are covered by a three-year, 75,000 mile warranty.
The XL3 hybrid system has had a quick adoption rate for commercial fleets since there is no need for special plugs, charging or fueling infrastructure. The technology works seamlessly in the background with zero impact on fleet operations or service, and no driver training or infrastructure requirements.
The XL3 hybrid system for Ford Transit joins XL Hybrids’ growing catalog of Ford-compatible products such as XL3 systems for Ford Econoline vans and wagons, and Ford E350/E450 cutaways.
XL Hybrids’ new Ford Transit van will be on display at the Annual Ford Fleet Preview at AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas, on May 5, 2015.
For more information on XL Hybrids technology and availability, visit www.xlhybrids.com or email info@xlhybrids.com.
