Ford Transit Custom Nugget: camping with electric power

Volkswagen comes with a brand new California, this time based on the T7 Multivan. That California has yet to be revealed, but we already know it will be available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. That is new for the Volkswagen California, but Ford trumps the model nicely. It is already presenting its new camper van version of the Transit Custom, which will also soon be supplied with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, among other things. Volkswagen will first come with a concept version of the California.

For years, the Nugget motorhomes developed by Westfalia based on the earlier generations of the Ford Transit Custom were supplied by Westfalia, but from now on Ford also offers them itself. As mentioned, the new Nugget camper van is based on the Transit Custom. It is available in various versions. The Nugget Titanium comes first. It has a 170 hp EcoBlue diesel engine and a lifting roof. You can order immediately and the first copies will be available in the spring of 2024. The other versions and engine versions will follow within the next year or so. So you have to be patient for the plug-in hybrid variant. It will therefore be questionable whether Ford will introduce a plug-in hybrid camper before Volkswagen, but Ford has in any case presented it earlier. The plug-in hybrid Transit Custom Nugget will have a 2.5 liter petrol engine and a 11.8 kWh (net) large battery pack. Together with the electric motor, the powertrain is good for 233 hp. There will also be four-wheel drive versions. Nice for in the bagger.

Nice cooking…

Naturally, the Transit Custom Nugget benefits from the innovations offered by the new Transit Custom. For example, the Nugget has a digital instrument panel, a 13-inch display that runs Ford’s Sync 4 software and things like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Systems such as intelligent adaptive cruise control, lane assist, blind spot detection, Reverse Brake Assist and 360-degree cameras are also available.

… and wash yourself nicely.

The Ford Transit Custom Nugget has what Ford and Westfalia call a ‘multi-zone’ layout. According to Ford, even with two double beds set up, you should be able to move around the cabin, cook a meal or get in and out of the vehicle without disturbing each other. The swiveling front seats are heated and the three-seat rear seat is also electrically heated. The camper has an L-shaped kitchenette, complete with a refrigerator, drawers and an integrated hob and sink. More camping convenience comes in the form of a folding mattress section to increase headroom in ‘the kitchen’. The rear seat is on rails and you should be able to easily convert it into a bed with one hand. A shower with both cold and hot water function is now standard. The Transit Custom Nugget has handy storage areas for the supplied outdoor table and chairs and has roller blinds. A 5G modem? From the party, just like induction chargers, LED interior lighting, an inclination sensor and an application that turns your smartphone into a remote control to operate various interior functions.