Story: COLIN DAWSON
The new Transit will be available with a range of bodystyles, derivatives and with multiple wheelbases, roof heights and chassis cab/cowl versions
Ford has unveiled its new generation of Transit commercial vehicles with the promise that they will “carry more, work harder, last longer, and cost customers less to operate”. Customers will have to wait though – deliveries of the new models are not due to start until the end of 2013.
Ford’s all-new Transit model is a replacement for the heavier two-tonne Transit derivatives in European and other worldwide markets. It will be available with range of bodystyles and derivatives, offering front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, and with multiple wheelbases, roof heights and chassis cab/cowl versions. It is powered by Ford’s latest 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel and has six-speed manual transmission.
The new Transit Connect will be available in a short- and long-wheelbase versions and, says Ford, will offer the most flexible and functional loadbox in the segment, and include a number of innovative features to enhance everyday productivity.
It has uni-body construction with a load-through hatch in the bulkhead and fold-flat passenger seat which enables long loads up to 3.0m (short wheelbase) and 3.5m (long wheelbase) to be transported. Load capacity for SWB and LWB models is 2.9cu m and 3.6cu m respectively.
Transit Connect is equipped with Ford’s latest low-CO2 powertrain technologies, said to deliver best-in-class fuel economy. In Europe, the engine line-up will include downsized diesel and petrol engines.
The new model’s cabin is described as car-like in design and craftsmanship, offering the latest Ford interior equipment and driver assistance features.
New Transit Connect – flexible and functional loadbox and innovative features
The two new Transit models join the Transit Custom in Ford’s renewed commercial vehicle line-up for Europe. The all-new Transit Custom, targeting the one-tonne business van market, is now on sale throughout European markets.
The first Ford Transit rolled off the production line in 1965 and 7 million have been sold worldwide since.
Keep up to date with developments in our business van news section.
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