Ford is betting big on a data-driven electric version of its Transit van

But does it have Ludicrous mode?... Ford is working on an electric version of its classic Transit model. The nearly-windowless van reminds you of a sketchy UberPool — it's actually the top-selling van in America, used by companies for jobs like plumbing and delivery. Now Ford wants to give it some sex appeal...

• The e-Transit will start at $45K and is set to drop in 2021. It could attract businesses looking to save on fuel costs. Also...
• Maintenance costs will be 40% lower over eight years for the electric vs. the gas version, according to Ford (no oil changes).

It's not just about electric wheels... Ford's also making a subscription play with digital add-ons to help customers track and manage their fleets. Currently, it charges $20 to $25 per vehicle/month for those services. It's expanding those offerings with the new e-fleets:

• Driver-coaching: Remember those "How's my driving?" bumper stickers? This is like the techy version of that. Voice commands nag drivers if they're speeding or idling for too long (fuuun).
• Juice check: Owners can remotely check how much charge each van has left, or preprogram them to recharge when rates are lower.