Bold new styling for Ford’s Load-Hauling Transit Van and Chassis Cab

·         Ford’s large-capacity Transit models receive fresh styling update

·         Six-year/90 000km service plan introduced as standard on Transit Van and Transit Chassis Cab, enhancing overall value for money and reducing running costs for business owners

·         Medium and extended long wheelbase versions available in Transit Van and Chassis Cab body styles

Ford South Africa has introduced an updated version of its extremely capable and versatile load-hauler – the Transit Van and Chassis Cab models. Distinguished by fresh new front-end styling that reflects Ford’s latest design language as seen on the latest Transit Custom, its heavy-duty big brother is now better looking than ever, while remaining one of the most capable and practical vehicles in its segment.

The most obvious change on the refreshed model is the new three-bar grille that gives the Transit a more muscular and assertive appearance. This is echoed by new headlights, a restyled front bumper and sleeker bonnet, all of which adds a new level of sophistication to this model. The cabin of the Transit has also been refreshed with new seat materials that enhance both comfort and durability.

Ford has also now included a six-year/90 000km service plan as standard in the purchase price – a significant value-add that was previously only available as an added-cost option. This greatly enhances the overall value-for-money proposition and reduces running costs – both of which are crucial considerations for business owners.

“The Ford Transit Van and Chassis Cab models are big-hitters when it comes to load-carrying abilities, and the updated model brings the styling of this extremely capable commercial vehicle in line with the rest of the current Ford line-up in South Africa,” says Doreen Mashinini, General Manager Marketing at Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa.

“Even more noteworthy is the inclusion of the service plan as standard, which eliminates the additional financial burden and complexity of budgeting for scheduled servicing of the vehicles for small and large fleet owners,” Mashinini adds. “In a tough economic and business environment where the total cost of ownership, including regular maintenance, is a key deciding factor, this presents a great benefit to commercial customers.”

Exceptional load-carrying ability

Beneath the more stylish skin of the updated Transit Van is an extremely practical and capable load-carrier. It is available in two models, starting off with the medium wheelbase (MWB) variant that boasts an impressive load volume of up to 10m³, and a gross payload of 1 325kg. It is able to accommodate four standard Europallets, or carry items measuring up to 3m long. In the case of the extended long wheelbase (ELWB) model, the Transit Van has a remarkable 15.1m³ capacity. It can haul a payload of up to 2 270kg, carry five Europallets or load items up to 4.2m in length.

Ease of access to the load area is facilitated through a sliding side door with an opening width of 1 300mm and height of up to 1 600mm, for easier loading and unloading with forklift trucks. The rear doors have an opening width of 1 783mm and a height of up to 2 070mm, which allows for even bulky items to be easily loaded.

Up to 12 ISO-compliant floor-mounted tie-down points are provided throughout the load compartment for securing items, with standard illumination providing greater visibility when working inside the vehicle.

Should additional load capacity be required, the Transit is capable of towing up to 2 800kg with a braked trailer for the MWB model, or 3 500kg for the larger-capacity version.

The towing capacities of the Transit Chassis Cab models, which are also available in MWB and ELWB specifications, match that of the van derivatives but they have higher gross payload ratings of 1 597kg and 2 691kg respectively. This makes the Chassis Cab models ideal for tailor-made load box solutions to suit the customer’s unique requirements.

Dependable 2.2 Duratorq TDCi performance

The proven 2.2-litre Duratorq turbodiesel engine powers the Transit models, delivering outstanding fuel efficiency, low running costs and dependable performance.

Both MWB models are powered by a 92kW version of this engine, with an accompanying peak torque output of 350Nm. The higher-spec engine used for the ELWB models boasts 114kW and 385Nm. All Transit variants are equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, with drive to the front wheels for the MWB, or to the dual rear wheels for the ELWB Transit.

Practical, comfortable and safe

The interior of the Transit Van and Chassis Cab is designed around everyday comfort and practicality. It offers excellent visibility, a relaxed driving position, and a steering column that is fully-adjustable for rake and reach.

Smart stowage solutions are located throughout the interior, including a full-width overhead shelf and a large hidden compartment under the dual passenger seat. Two 12-volt power sockets are provided, and can be used for charging or powering mobile devices. A Ford audio system as fitted as standard with Bluetooth, USB and Aux connectivity, Voice Control and steering wheel-mounted audio controls for added driving convenience and safety.

There’s no cutting corners on safety either, as all Transit models are equipped with ABS brakes, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Control, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Hill Launch Assist and Rollover Mitigation. A driver’s airbag is standard, with a passenger airbag available as an option as part of the Comfort Pack that also adds air-conditioning.

Buyers can also specify a rear-view camera with front and rear parking sensors, which is optional on the Transit Van, that add further convenience and ease of use.

Vehicle and cargo security is provided by means of a perimeter alarm system, along with remote central locking with shielded power door deadlocks, configurable two-stage unlocking and drive-away locking functionality.

All Transit Van and Transit Chassis Cab models come standard with the six-year/90 000km service plan, three-year unlimited distance roadside assistance and four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty. This is complemented by a five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty on all Transit Van and Transit Chassis Cab.