The Ford Transit Custom Plug-in Hybrid is designed primarily as a trusty work vehicle for UK businesses, but a customised example we saw at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed proved how a few modifications can dramatically change its character.
Displayed by Leighton Vans, the L2 double-cab model featured the company’s LV-RF package, combining exterior, suspension, wheel and interior upgrades.
Speaking to EVW at Goodwood, Leighton told us that its approach is centred on an “OEM+” philosophy, retaining the original Ford design and mounting points while giving the Transit Custom sporty looks and additional functionality.
At the front, the LV-RF package adds a new chin and splitter rather than replacing the complete bumper. Leighton told us that the component was designed in-house, uses injection-moulded construction and attaches using the original Ford clips. The company also said its modifications are designed not to invalidate the vehicle’s warranty.
The sides receive extended wheel arches, side skirts and lower door protection. Larger 20-inch alloy wheels fill the arches more convincingly, while Cobra lowering springs reduce the ride height by approximately 40 mm. Leighton offers several wheel designs, allowing customers to change the appearance further.
At the rear, the Transit Custom gains a redesigned bumper and diffuser, with provision retained for a tow bar. We noticed that the display vehicle also featured an upper carbon-effect cover and a roof spoiler.
Despite the sportier styling, Leighton has tried to preserve the van’s everyday character rather than turning it into a purely cosmetic show vehicle. The display vehicle was based on a Transit Custom L2 double cab powered by a 2.5-litre PHEV system producing 232 PS.
Inside, Leighton had replaced the standard cloth upholstery with its own black leather trim featuring red stitching. The company told us that the leather work is completed in-house.
Leighton had also converted the rear section for leisure use. The Goodwood van included shelving, a bike rack and what the company calls its “halo roof,” with suede-style lining and configurable interior lighting.
The plug-in hybrid Ford van also featured powered sliding doors, a 13-inch touchscreen, Navigation Plus, a digital rear-view mirror, heated steering wheel and an 11 kW three-phase onboard AC charger.
Leighton told us that applying a similar LV-RF specification to a customer-owned van would cost approximately £10,000-£12,000 plus VAT. The halo roof and rear conversion elements are additional, and the company can also create more bespoke configurations depending on how an owner intends to use the van.
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
