Autoworld.com - Joey Ho - The next generation Ford Transit makes its world debut at Amsterdam's RAI 2000 European Road Transport Show. The flexible and ingenious design of Ford's new European flagship commercial vehicle offers both front-drive and traditional rear-drive configurations from a single platform.

"This is the most significant milestone in Transit's 35-year European history," said Ford of Europe Chairman Nick Scheele today at the Amsterdam premiere. "The new range stands for everything that has always made Ford Transit a leader, and its innovative design for the future will answer the needs of commercial vehicle customers like no other."


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Transit's new, highly flexible platform architecture allows it to meet the needs of two distinct segments of the commercial van market. In addition to traditional rear-drive, two-tonne applications, the next-generation Transit can be configured as a low-floor, front-drive, one-tonne vehicle. High component commonality between the powertrains - over 95 per cent - provides clear benefits for operators maintaining mixed fleets.

The all-new Transit offers:

• Identical, all-new exterior styling for both front-drive and rear-drive models.
• Three wheelbases, including a new medium wheelbase version.
• Four load lengths and three roof heights.
• Van, bus, kombi, single/double chassis-cabs with single and dual rear-wheels.
• An all-new, all-turbocharged family of DuraTorq diesel engines with advanced four-valve technology for outstanding fuel economy and emissions performance.

The all-new Ford Transit has been designed to deliver significant advances in those areas deemed most important by commercial vehicle operators:

• Loadbox functionality - Answering this top operator priority, the new Transit's short wheelbase model can carry standard 8'x4' sheets flat or upright and materials up to 2.5 meters in length. With the industry's widest available (1275mm) side load door, Transit also has the capacity to load two Europallets side-by-side in the front section of the cargo compartment.
• Low cost of ownership - Improvements of up to 15 per cent in fuel economy, longer service intervals, and innovative approaches to maintenance, service and repair for minimised downtime are among the ways the new Ford Transit addresses this high customer priority.
• Durability, strength and quality - These Transit hallmarks have been extended in the new Transit, thanks in part to more than 3 million kilometres of durability testing in some of the world's harshest environments. Transit's new DuraTorq diesel engines have been engineered not only for strong performance and economy but also for the robustness and durability required for commercial operation.
• Security - With the development of a new 'lock-in-latch' system as part of a no-compromise security package, the new Transit helps operators assure the protection of their goods and equipment. The lock-in-latch system, a commercial vehicle 'first,' does away with the cables and connecting rods that allow thieves to 'jimmy' open locks.

New Transit has been designed with function and value as the leading principles. As well as maximising payload by moving the tumblehome out by 89mm per side - and thereby increasing the usable volume available by 11 percent - Transit has made the driver environment a priority.

Design techniques to provide the driver with best-in-class outward vision include:

• Backward sloping of the B-pillar and upward incline of the top of the door frame for improved lateral and upward vision.
• Relocating mirrors low and forward on the body for unparalleled horizontal vision for extra safety, especially at crossroads.
• Lowering the waistline, especially of the front quarter-window, for improved outward vision of 17 per cent at the side. Vision through the front windscreen is 11 percent improved.

Transit's exterior design is clean and smooth, making it ideal for graphics and signwriting to represent the business professional. On glazed Kombi models, this allows for flush-mounted glass for sleek appearance and optimised aerodynamics.

For high levels of structural integrity and quality, plus long lasting durability, Transit offers all-steel roof heights. An integral drip-rail feature was requested by customers for mounting roof racks and other accessories.

At the front, a one-piece Sheet Molded Compound (SMC) front grille replaces 17 sheet-metal components used previously. The grille incorporates damage-resistant polycarbon headlamps.

DuraTorq is an all-new design, with advanced four-valve per cylinder technology - a first for commercial vehicles - that will deliver emissions capability for many years ahead, as well as outstanding performance and economy.

Engine design objectives included low cost of ownership, outstanding fuel economy, low maintenance costs, long-term durability and extended service intervals.

Rear-drive Transit will use the 2.4-litre DuraTorq, available in 75PS, 90PS and 120PS variants. Front-drive models, available later in 2000, will use the 2.0-litre version of the DuraTorq.

Highlights of Transit's new DuraTorq range include:

• Extended 25,000 kilometre service intervals.
• All versions of DuraTorq are turbocharged with intercoolers fitted to 90PS and 120PS versions of the 2.4-litre engine.
• Four-valves per cylinder for outstanding economy and emissions performance
• Double overhead camshafts (DOHC)
• A cast-iron block and aluminium head for strength, durability and lightness.
• A ladder frame on the engine block to minimise noise and vibration.
• No visible diesel smoke for life of engine.

The all-new Ford Transit has been designed to reduce every single aspect of maintenance and running costs for the operator. From the frugal new range of DuraTorq diesels to potentially reduced labour costs with body and mechanical repairs, Transit has been engineered to keep downtime to a minimum.

With a durability programme that involved more than three million kilometres of severe testing, new Ford Transit has been designed for a long and reliable life. The major elements contributing to a low cost of ownership include:

• A vehicle specifically designed for a reduction in the time needed to complete the simplest or most complex repairs. New Transit helps cut labour and downtime costs to a minimum.
• An inherently robust structure and high levels of durability which will help to maintain strong residual values.
• Careful attention to rust protection and floor sealing, contributing to a long life for the entire body structure, underlined by Ford's corrosion warranty.
• Innovations like standard 'filter minders' which warn when crucial air and fuel filters need changing - but not before - help to reduce running costs further by guarding against costly engine failures.
• Changes to Transit's front-end geometry giving a significant reduction of tyre wear by up to 46 percent on the front, while manoeuvring in narrow spaces.
• Three-piece front and five-piece rear bumpers designed for lower replacement cost and easy repair.

Loadbox functionality is the number one priority for the majority of commercial vehicle users, and the all-new Ford Transit has been designed to offer the best-in-class solution. In addition to increased load cube, with Transit's dual-configuration strategy, customers who need the extra capacity and flexibility of a lower load floor can choose the front-drive Transit.

The new Transit van's loadbox package includes:

• Three wheelbases and four load lengths from 2.58 to more than 4 metres.
• The possibility to carry one more Europallet on each of its wheelbases than the current model.
• Class-leading load capacity in the 3.5-tonne GVM category.
• Greater structural strength, as new Transit uses the biggest automotive stamping in the world in its three-height steel roof.
• Two sizes of side door, both designed to provide easy access for pallets and offer the best solution for individual needs.

All aspects of the all-new Ford Transit have been engineered in response to customer-led demands. The driving environment is no exception, offering a package that is more comfortable, easier to use and even more focused around the driver:

• More seat travel (50mm) offers greater space and comfort. Seats are fully adjustable and include lumbar support, tilt and recline, height adjustment and fore/aft travel.
• An enhanced climate control and ventilation system with easier to use controls is positioned high in the dashboard, aiding use.
• Improved vision through front and side glass.
• An upgraded audio system for improved AM/FM reception and overall sound quality.
• The dash top pocket, designed to hold mobile telephones upright.
• Added storage features for drinks, documents and mobile telephones.
• The convenient and accessible jack storage package and fuse panel access.

The all-new Ford Transit has been designed to give both driver and passengers confidence through enhanced braking, handling, ride and steering dynamics. Engineered to be robust and a long lasting, new Transit's suspension system has been developed with extensive use of Computer Aided Engineering (CAE). The result is secure and predictable handling under all circumstances, a refined ride quality, and steering that delivers both accuracy and good feedback of road surface conditions. Highlights include:

• Variable rate front coil springs to ensure secure handling regardless of load.
• Hotchkiss rear suspension with leaf springs and forward facing gas shock absorbers.
• Development of new tyres tuned for enhanced traction, handling and durability characteristics.
• Robust suspension for long life and durability.
• Available air suspension with load leveling and kneeling.

The all-new Ford Transit will be a tough challenge for both thieves and the competition alike. In addition to the lock-in-latch system, Transit employs a key-locking bonnet, an upgraded Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) system that includes the engine's Electronic Engine Control module and the fuel system in the disable circuit, and slam-locking doors which reduce the risk of accidentally leaving doors unlocked.

Safety

Occupant safety is a Ford priority. Together with a crash structure designed for maximum crash protection, Transit offers passenger-car levels of safety technology. That includes available anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution, driver and passenger airbags and integrated-in-seat three-point seatbelts even for the centre passenger.

New features include:

• An all-new braking system with larger discs and drums and available ABS and EBD.
• Doors that are engineered to stay closed during a crash. However, in most accidents they can be opened easily afterwards.
• A large, 60-litre driver's airbag.
• Height adjustable seat belts for both driver and front passenger seats.

The all-new Ford Transit offers the largest model range in the industry. With the addition of a medium wheelbase version, the new Transit range is flexible enough to satisfy virtually any requirement. That flexibility also means that no customer need buy more - or less - capacity than is absolutely needed. And for those who require a highly specialised vehicle, Transit offers over 100 Special Vehicle Options (SVO) to suit virtually any specialised commercial or emergency vehicle application.

New Ford Transit production has commenced at the Genk Assembly Plant with the rear-drive 2.4-litre DuraTorq versions of the long and medium wheelbase van, Kombi, chassis and double-cab.

Later in 2000, production of the remaining versions - including the 2.0-litre front-drive - will begin, and the Southampton Assembly Plant will come on line. During the interim period, one-tonne payload and other selected versions of the current Ford Transit model will continue in production at Southampton for sale across Europe and in other non-European markets.

Southampton employs the same manufacturing technology as Genk, but concentrates on front-wheel drive Transit. A third assembly plant, in Izmit, Turkey, begins production of selected rear-drive versions later in 2000.

A global project

The new Ford Transit will be sold in every major European market, and continue to support other markets around the world. Markets currently served by Transit are:

Europe - Britain, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden and Switzerland.

Eastern Europe and Middle East - Former Yugoslavia, Poland (local assembly), Hungary, Greece, Turkey, Czech Republic, Israel, Russia, Belarus (local assembly), Cyprus, Malta, Kazakhstan, Ukraine.

Export (Americas) - Argentina, Caribbean LHD, Caribbean RHD, Peru, Panama.

Export (Asia) - Hong Kong, Singapore.

Export (Other) - Australia, New Zealand, Seychelles and Brunei.

Local assembly (Asia) - China, Vietnam and Malaysia.

In addition to these markets, the all-new Ford Transit will be sold in the following new markets:

Export (Africa and Europe) - Selected North, Central and South African states, Baltics - Latvia and Lithuania, Romania, Croatia, Macedonia and Iceland.

Export (South and Central America) - Chile, Uruguay, Bolivia, Paraguay.

Export (Asia) - Thailand, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Tahiti - Society Islands.

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