Ford Reveals New Transit, Transit Connect Vans

Ford today reveals a new-generation of Transit commercial vans based on all-new global platforms.

Developed under the auto maker’s One Ford plan, the Transit lineup will include versions of the fullsize Transit van as well as the smaller Transit Connect. Both models will be sold in Europe, North America and other global markets, the auto maker says.

“These new products will carry more, work harder, last longer and cost our customers less to operate,” Barb Samardzich, vice president-product development, Ford of Europe, says in a statement.

The new Transit fullsize van replaces the heavier model currently sold in Europe and other markets and is slated to replace the Ford E-Series van in North America.

The Transit will come in a comprehensive range of body styles and derivatives, with multiple wheelbases, roof heights and new chassis cowl versions, Ford says.

In Europe, the Transit will be offered in front-wheel- and rear-wheel-drive versions and will be powered by a 2.2L Duratorq diesel engine.

In North America, customers can choose from several engines, including a 3.5L turbocharged 6-cyl. EcoBoost mill and yet-to-be disclosed diesel engine. Each version will be RWD and achieve 25% better fuel economy than a comparable E-Series van, Ford says.  

Available in short- and long-wheelbase versions, the new Transit Connect will be offered in Europe with downsize diesel and gas engines, and in North America with a “tailored range” of gas powertrains, Ford says.

The vans will go on sale in Europe in the second-half 2013. Ford has not confirmed timing for a North American introduction, but says it will follow the European launch.