All-new Ford Transit makes global public debut at IAA Commercial Vehicle Show

The all-new Ford Transit makes its global public debut at the Hanover IAA Commercial Vehicle Show, marking the arrival of a new-generation of global Transit commercial vehicles.

The new-generation Transit has been developed under the
One Ford product strategy for sale in six continents, including Europe, North America and other key markets worldwide.

Offering a huge range of body styles and derivatives, the all-new Transit is engineered to deliver class-leading load-carrying ability, exceptional toughness and durability, and targets best-in-class fuel economy.

"The Transit van is going global, and we've made it more productive, more fuel efficient and tougher than ever before," said Barb Samardzich, Vice-President Product Development, Ford of Europe.

"With its legendary Transit and E-Series models, Ford has more experience of creating market-leading commercial vans around the world than any other manufacturer, and this all-new Transit will move the game on once again."

Next-generation global commercial vehicle platform
The all-new Transit is based on a state-of-the-art global platform, engineered to underpin the next-generation of Ford commercial vans worldwide. It forms part of an unprecedented renewal that will see complete redesign of its commercial vehicle range for Europe over the next two years.

Within Europe and worldwide markets, the new model replaces the heavier 2-tonne Transit derivatives, and joins the exciting new 1-tonne Transit Custom in the line-up. In North America, where Transit makes its debut, it will eventually take over from the best-selling E-Series range.

The vehicle was engineered in Ford's commercial vehicle Centre of Excellence in Europe – building on decades of experience developing market-leading Transit models – supported by the company's full global product development resources.

New level of capability and versatility
The all-new Ford Transit brings a new level of capability and versatility to the medium commercial van market, with an unmatched range of body styles and derivatives, with multiple wheelbases, roof heights and chassis cab/cowl versions.

The purposeful, modern exterior design conceals a load area sized to accommodate key distribution industry required dimensions and maintain best-in-class payload. A range of innovative loadspace features make operator usage easier and more secure.

Compared to the outgoing Transit, load volume has been increased by around 10 per cent model-for-model, with the largest 'Jumbo' van now capable of swallowing a massive 15.1 m3 SAE of cargo. In addition, an all-new Chassis Cab SuperJumbo derivative will enable 5 m floats or box bodies to be accommodated.
Particular emphasis has been placed on making the vehicle simple to modify for body builders, upfitters and camper van converters, so all customer requirements can be satisfied.

For Europe, the all-new Transit is powered by the latest 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel with a choice of three power ratings (100 ps, 125 ps, 155 ps), and a standard 6-speed manual transmission; front-wheel-drive, rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel drive versions will be available.

The comprehensive range of bodystyles and derivatives includes Van, Double Cab-in-Van (DCiV), Kombi, Kombi Van and Bus models, plus Chassis Cab and Chassis Cowl versions. Vans are available in three different lengths and two different roof heights with multiple gross vehicle mass options of up to 4.7-tonnes. This combines with the all-new Transit Custom 1-tonne range to deliver a significantly expanded overall line-up.

In North America, customers can choose from several engines, including the proven 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 or a powerful diesel option; each features rear-wheel-drive and at least 25 per cent better fuel economy than a comparable E-Series. Multiple roof heights and wheelbases will be available. North American Transit vans will be manufactured in Kansas City, alongside the Ford F-150.

Outstanding cost-of-ownership, driver appeal and durability
Minimising overall cost-of-ownership was a high priority throughout the vehicle design and development, and the all-new Transit delivers minimised maintenance, repair and insurance costs, and targets best-in-class fuel economy.

An all-new interior, with a stylish and functional instrument panel, incorporates a range of smart stowage solutions. The cabin is significantly more spacious than the outgoing model, with increased shoulder room, head clearance and visibility, plus a more comfortable driving position with a fully-adjustable steering column.

A wide range of convenience features and driver assistance technologies featured on Ford's latest passenger cars can also be specified, including the Ford SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system with Emergency Assistance, a rear view camera, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Departure Warning.

The Transit brand has established a legendary reputation for toughness and dependability, and the new global model has been engineered to extend that tradition, starting with its immensely strong unibody construction featuring high-strength and ultra-high-strength/boron steels.

The vehicle has been subjected to Ford's ultra-stringent global commercial vehicle testing and durability standards, covering millions of miles of arduous testing in laboratories, at proving grounds and on customer fleets.

In Europe, the all-new Ford Transit is due to go on sale in late-2013 with deliveries starting by the end of the year. In North America, the all-new Transit is scheduled to go on sale by the fourth quarter of 2013.

Posted in: Barb Samardzich,Ford,Ford Europe,Ford Transit,Front-Wheel-Drive,IAA Commercial Vehicle Show 2012,International,North America,One Ford Plan,Rear-Wheel-Drive,Shows/Expo,World Debut