The Ford Transit range, named the 2007 International Van of the Year, has undergone yet further changes to enhance its utilisation, size and safety. With these changes comes a brand new model that offers larger gross vehicle mass. All twelve models that are currently part of the range have experienced some very positive changes that will only make its customers even more enamored with its quality and performance.
Safety Changes
As of March 1, all Transit models will feature four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) as a standard. This feature had only been part of rear-wheel vehicles in previous versions. A front passenger airbag is now standard on Transit Bus while a load area protection kit comes standard on all short, mid, and long wheelbase vans. Even more safety features include the Dynamic Stability Control and front side airbags which are now standard on the bus, cab-chassis and van ranges.
Size and Power Upgrades
The Transit model is now features even a larger carrying capacity than before. Mark Winslow, Vice President Marketing and Sales, remarks that, “We have enhanced Transit’s safety story and also improved the load carrying ability of our biggest vans. The new dual rear-wheel jumbo van is a behemoth that literally swallows a phenomenal amount of cargo.” Specifically, the redesign is a rear-wheel drive long-wheel base jumbo van with dual-rear wheels and a gross vehicle mass of 4490kg. Combined, this mass is 6.5-tonnes with a braked towing capacity of 3-tonnes.
The power of the Transit is still undeniably astounding. It has the 2.4-litre Duratorq TDCi engine that has 103kW @ 3500rpm and 375Nm @ 2000rpm. Standard features are Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and traction control. The single and dual cab-chassis extended frame models now have a larger gross vehicle mass, increasing from 240kg to 4490kg. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and traction control now are featured on these as well.
Comfort is Key
Ford also wanted to maintain its tradition of accommodating the needs of the driver to the best of its ability. Keeping the drivers safe and comfortable in such vehicles has to be a priority. Mark Winslow elaborates. “The high ergonomic standards not only concern the driver’s seat and the position of steering wheel and gear lever but also include the excellent visibility via the large windows and the well positioned rear view mirrors.” A Professional Pack offers such options as cruise control and passenger airbags. Most importantly, the Transit line delivers a wide range of options and standards to suit the varied needs of its customers.