(RTTNews) - Friday, Ford Motor Co (F: News ) revealed a collaborative effort with Azure Dynamics Corp. (AZD.TO) to deliver a pure battery electric Ford Transit Connect van for the United States and Canadian markets in 2010. Azure, a producer of electric components and powertrain systems, will integrate its Force Drive battery electric drive train in the Transit Connect van for commercial fleet and retail use.

Dearborn, Michigan based Ford said the collaboration with Azure Dynamics for the Transit Connect BEV will build on the existing business relationship between two, as well as their shared experience with supplier of lithium-ion battery cells and battery packs , Johnson Controls-Saft. Azure Dynamics will integrate its proprietary Force Drive battery electric drive train in the Transit Connect BEV

The Transit Connect BEV is the first production vehicle from Ford's accelerated electric vehicle strategy, which includes Ford Focus BEV passenger car in 2011, and a next-generation hybrid and plug-in hybrid in 2012.

The Transit Connect BEV will be built on Ford's global commercial vehicle platform and it is the first of four electrified vehicles from Ford that will become available over the next three years in the U.S. and Canada.

Nancy Gioia, Ford director of Global Electrification said, "Our work with Azure to create a pure electric battery Transit Connect vehicle will allow us to offer our commercial customers an additional option for environmentally friendly transportation."
Azure Dynamics develops hybrid electric and electric drive technology for shuttle buses and commercial trucks, such as the Balance Hybrid Electric, which is built on the Ford E-450 cutaway and strip chassis for the commercial vehicle segment.

Oak Park, Michigan based Azure Dynamics feels the Transit Connect BEV will hit the market at an ideal time to meet the growing trend as it would integrate its proprietary Force Drive battery electric drive train into the Transit Connect BEV, which will have a targeted range of 80 miles on a full charge and zero tailpipe emissions. The Transit Connect BEV will offer fleet owners the opportunity to eliminate the use of gasoline and lower operating costs. The vehicle will be badged with both the Ford Blue Oval and Azure's Force Drive logo.

Ford is currently being traded at $7.09 down $0.21 or 2.88% on a volume of 23.180 million shares on the NYSE.

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by RTT Staff Writer

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