Ford launches all-new Transit at CV Show 2012
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By George Barrow
FORD HAS unveiled its new Transit at the CV Show, to compete with Volkswagen’s Transporter and the Mercedes-Benz Vito.
Available in shortand long-wheelbase versions from launch, the Transit Custom can accommodate three Euro pallets thanks to a redesigned bulkhead.
The new bulkhead also features a hatch that allows loads up to 3m long to be carried inside the vehicle.
The new one-tonne platform Transit range will offer payloads from 600kg up to 1,400kg, and will go on sale in all markets later this year (excluding North America).
Power comes from the current range of Stage V 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engines, with power outputs of 98hp, 123hp and 152hp. Transit Custom models will also get Auto Start-Stop as standard. The outside of the Transit has been completely redesigned and incorporates a number of familiar Ford design elements, including the trapezoidal front grille found on the Fiesta and Focus passenger cars.
The positioning of the side indicator has also been changed, moving to the inside of the wing mirror to protect it from damage.
On the inside, the cab has been redesigned to focus on the needs of the driver, with closer positioning of the steering wheel and gearstick, improved storage compartments, 30mm increased seat travel and, for the first time on a Transit, an adjustable steering wheel.
Ford is in the process of overhauling its entire CV range by 2014 and will unveil larger and higher payload Transits, with rear-wheel-drive options, later this year as part of the next phase of the replacement process.