Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ford picks Fiesta ST, Transit Connect as this year's SEMA darlings]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/02/ford-picks-fiesta-st-transit-connect-as-this-years-sema-darlin/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/02/ford-picks-fiesta-st-transit-connect-as-this-years-sema-darlin/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/02/ford-picks-fiesta-st-transit-connect-as-this-years-sema-darlin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,



SEMA is more than nine months away, but the reveille bugle for the show has just sounded with Ford's call to aftermarket companies for its project-vehicle program. The 2014 Ford Fiesta ST and 2014 Transit Connect van and wagon are the cars The Blue Oval wants to feature, but applicants can submit project vehicles for any product except the GT500, the Raptor, or anything from Lincoln.

Submissions must be completed in two parts, the first being an email to Ford with an overview of the project, like vehicle theme, promotional plan and location display. The second part must be mailed in on company letterhead and gets down to the nuts and bolts of the vision and the provision of company bona fides. The complete proposal is due on March 1, winners will be notified by May 1. Click the link below to get all the details, and for show attendees, get ready to see some funky Fiestas and wild shaggin' wagons in Las Vegas come November.

Ford picks Fiesta ST, Transit Connect as this year's SEMA darlings originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 02 Feb 2013 17:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketfiestafiesta stfordsemasema 2013transit connecttransit connect wagontunerSat, 02 Feb 2013 17:07:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20445975/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/02/ford-picks-fiesta-st-transit-connect-as-this-years-sema-darlin/20445975/article-detail.xml 20445975 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/fordfiestastsema_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/fordfiestastsema.jpg <![CDATA[Ford shows off commercial version of new Transit Connect]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/ford-shows-off-commercial-version-of-new-transit-connect/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/ford-shows-off-commercial-version-of-new-transit-connect/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/ford-shows-off-commercial-version-of-new-transit-connect/#commentsFiled under: , , ,




We recently showed you the updated Ford Transit Connect Wagon in all its refreshed glory. Well here is the new 2014 Transit Connect (note the lack of "Wagon" in name, for its commercially minded purpose), and it's the small Ford van of choice for your tougher jobs. Ford says this van is ideally suited for small businesses and fleets looking to prioritize fuel economy. Two gasoline-powered four-cylinder engines have been announced, as well as the availability of compressed natural gas-powered mill with the CNG prep package. The base engine is a 2.5-liter DOHC inline-four, while the uprated engine is a 1.6-liter EcoBoost inline-four. Ford is anticipating 30-plus miles per gallon from the latter. Power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.

The Transit Connect comes with all of Ford's latest collection of goodies, including an available 6.5-inch touchscreen with Sync and MyFordTouch, as well as Ford's MyKey programable key system. However, the key feature of the Transit Connect is capability, and this van appears to have it in spades, including a max 1,600-pound payload and over 130 cubic feet of cargo space. When properly equipped, it can also tow up to 2,000 pounds.

Ford sees global commercial vehicle sales growing by 4.8 million units next year, and wants to capitalize on that by employing its One Ford program. To that end it will be selling the Transit Connect in 66 international markets, making it a truly global vehicle. If your interest has been piqued by the Transit Connect, feel free to read on to the press release below.

Continue reading Ford shows off commercial version of new Transit Connect

Ford shows off commercial version of new Transit Connect originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford transit connectcommercial vanconnectfordpanel vantransittransit connectwork vanFri, 14 Dec 2012 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20403539/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/14/ford-shows-off-commercial-version-of-new-transit-connect/20403539/article-detail.xml 20403539 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/001-2014-ford-transit-connect-van-live628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/001-2014-ford-transit-connect-van-live628opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon is as homely as it is hugely practical]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/29/2014-ford-transit-connect-wagon-la-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/29/2014-ford-transit-connect-wagon-la-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/29/2014-ford-transit-connect-wagon-la-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon 5-Passenger

It ain't a looker, but the Ford Transit Connect Wagon is more functional than a Gobot and has returned the word "mini" to The Blue Oval's van selection. Ford is screaming from the Transit Connect Wagon's optional panoramic roof that it's "anticipating up to" 30 highway miles per gallon for buyers choosing the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine. The other powerplant choice is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, both connected to a six-speed transmission.

Smaller families can go with the five-seater version, while the seven-seater will be available on a longer wheelbase for larger clans. Trims are XL, XLT and the familiar Titanium, all of them boasting sliding side doors, fold-flat second and third rows and payload capacities beyond 1,200 pounds. There are two rear-entry options to boot, either a rear liftgate or side-hinged cargo doors if you insist on being reminded of the commercial roots of your minivan.

The five-seater is in the high-res gallery above, the seven-seater in the one below, with both demonstrating that it's the beauty inside that matters most.

2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon is as homely as it is hugely practical originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto showfordlala auto showtransit connecttransit connect wagonThu, 29 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20390621/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/29/2014-ford-transit-connect-wagon-la-2012/20390621/article-detail.xml 20390621 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2014-ford-transit-connect-5p-la_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2014-ford-transit-connect-5p-la.jpg <![CDATA[Ford shows off 2014 Transit Connect Wagon, confirms cargo model for Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/ford-shows-off-2014-transit-connect-wagon-confirms-cargo-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/ford-shows-off-2014-transit-connect-wagon-confirms-cargo-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/ford-shows-off-2014-transit-connect-wagon-confirms-cargo-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon

On the heels of revealing the all-new 2014 Transit Connect Wagon this morning, Ford officials confirmed to Autoblog that its work-ready cargo counterpart will debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January. Just like the Wagon, the cargo van will be offered in both short- and long-wheelbase variants and be able to handle payloads up to 1,200 pounds.

During an event held today at the company's Product Review Center in Dearborn, Michigan, Ford's marketing manager of commercial vehicles, Tim Stoehr, explained the strategy behind the new Transit Connect Wagon. Much like how we've seen consumers downsizing to smaller vehicles over the past few years, Ford firmly believes that buyers in the minivan segment are also looking to downsize. Thus, the Transit Connect Wagon is more of a true minivan than just about anything else on the market, and Ford believes the two-wheelbase strategy (with five- and seven-passenger configurations) will make its new van appealing to a wide range of consumers. That said, Stoehr expects the take rate on the two models to be about 80/20 - the majority going with the seven-passenger, long-wheelbase configuration.

The 2014 Transit Connect Wagon will be the least-expensive seven-passenger vehicle in the United States, coming in "thousands less than the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey."

Stoehr did not confirm pricing for either model, but said that the 2014 Transit Connect Wagon will be the least-expensive seven-passenger vehicle in the United States, coming in "thousands less than the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey." The Mazda5, which starts at $20,420 including delivery fees, only seats six.

Looking back to the introduction of Ford's other new people-mover, the C-Max, the automaker was originally scheduled to launch a seven-passenger version, complete with sliding doors and traditional gas powertrains. When asked about why Ford decided to shift this sort of vehicle over to the Transit Connect line, Hau Thai-Tang, Ford's vice president of global engineering for global product development, told Autoblog that the decision was based on the fact that Ford wanted to have one nameplate in its US product portfolio solely dedicated to electrified vehicles. That, and the seven-passenger C-Max (better known as the Grand C-Max) didn't offer nearly as much interior volume as the Transit Connect. To that end, Thai-Tang confirmed that a hybrid version of the Transit Connect is not on the table.

Ford also confirmed that, just like the current-generation Transit Connect, the new model will not be affected by the so-called "chicken tax" that applies to cargo vans built outside of the US. The 2014 Transit Connect will be built in Valencia, Spain.

When Ford launches the 2014 Transit Connect Wagon near the end of 2013, it will be available in the buyer's choice of either a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder or a 1.6-liter EcoBoost four, both coming standard with six-speed automatic transmissions. The 2014 Transit Connect Wagon will officially bow at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month.

Ford shows off 2014 Transit Connect Wagon, confirms cargo model for Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto show2013 detroit auto show2014 ford transit connectdetroitdetroit auto showfordlala auto showtransit connecttransit connect wagonTue, 13 Nov 2012 13:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20378717/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/13/ford-shows-off-2014-transit-connect-wagon-confirms-cargo-model/20378717/article-detail.xml 20378717 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2014-ford-transit-connect-wagon-live---opt2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2014-ford-transit-connect-wagon-live---opt2.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon brings minivans back to the Blue Oval]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/2014-ford-transit-connect-wagon-brings-minivans-back-to-the-blue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/2014-ford-transit-connect-wagon-brings-minivans-back-to-the-blue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/2014-ford-transit-connect-wagon-brings-minivans-back-to-the-blue/#commentsFiled under: ,

2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon - brown - front three-quarter view

It's been a minute since there was a minivan in Ford showrooms, but that's about to change. The automaker has unveiled its 2014 Transit Connect Wagon built for families looking for a more functional alternative to the world's ever-growing fleet of SUVs and crossovers. Powered by either a 2.5-liter four-cylinder or an EcoBoost 1.6-liter four pot, the front-drive Transit Connect Wagon may be had in one of two wheelbase configurations. That means there are both five and seven-seat variants, and both will offer fold-flat seating for more than 100 cubic feet of cargo area. In addition, Ford says its commercial-van-turned-people-mover can be configured to tow up to 2,000 pounds.

The EPA has yet to release fuel economy estimates for the 2014 Transit Connect Wagon, but Ford believes the vehicle will return better than 30 mpg highway when equipped with its EcoBoost engine. Both powerplants are bolted to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Ford currently sells about 35,000 Transit Connect units per year, and the new Wagon variant should bolster that figure by expanding the vehicle to family-minded. Check out the full press release below for more information. Look for the 2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon to land on dealer lots in the fourth quarter of 2013.

Continue reading 2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon brings minivans back to the Blue Oval

2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon brings minivans back to the Blue Oval originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford transit connect wagonfordminivantransit connecttransit connect wagonTue, 13 Nov 2012 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20378326/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/13/2014-ford-transit-connect-wagon-brings-minivans-back-to-the-blue/20378326/article-detail.xml 20378326 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2014-ford-tranist-connect-wagon-6278_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2014-ford-tranist-connect-wagon-6278.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Ford Transit Connect adds form to function [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/2014-ford-transit-connect-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/2014-ford-transit-connect-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/2014-ford-transit-connect-paris-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Ford Transit Connect

Much as we like the current Ford Transit Connect, "sexy" is not an adjective we'd use to describe it. And while this new 2014 model appears a bit bulgier in person than the original stock photos led us to believe, it's no doubt a wholly more stylish van than the vehicle it replaces.

Unfortunately, details are slim regarding the new Transit Connect. When it first debuted in Amsterdam, Ford said that its trusty work van would be powered by a range of "highly-efficient downsized diesel and petrol engines," while in the United States, we'll have to live with "a tailored range of gasoline powertrains." Whatever that means.

We've just returned with a full smattering of high-res images live from the Paris Motor Show floor, so check 'em out in the gallery above. Ford's official press blast and a short video are yours for the perusing, below.

Continue reading 2014 Ford Transit Connect adds form to function [w/video]

2014 Ford Transit Connect adds form to function [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Sep 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford transit connectfordparisparis 2012paris motor showtourneo connecttransit connectThu, 27 Sep 2012 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20334712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/27/2014-ford-transit-connect-paris-2012/20334712/article-detail.xml 20334712 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2014-ford-transit-connect-paris_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2014-ford-transit-connect-paris.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Europe goes further with American vehicles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/ford-europe-goes-further-with-american-vehicles/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/ford-europe-goes-further-with-american-vehicles/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/ford-europe-goes-further-with-american-vehicles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,



Just weeks before the Paris Motor Show, Ford Motor Co. has taken the wraps off of much of its new lineup for Europe in an effort to shore up its efforts for European dealers. The webcast press conference from Amsterdam ended with the official announcement that the Dearborn, Michigan-based car maker will officially make the Mustang available for Autobahn runs and cobble stone street drifting.

"We'll have more details on the Mustang coming to Europe later this year," CEO Alan Mulally said, as he stood before a crowd of more than 2,500 dealers, enthusiasts and reporters. Thousands more watched him and other key Ford executives tout the company's accelerated plans to introduce more global vehicles to Europe.

The Old Country has been problematic in recent years as its stagnant economy has cost automakers billions. Ford lost $404 million in Europe in the second quarter of 2012 and expects Europe to continue to drag down the company's global profitability in the near future. But instead of going on the defensive, Ford has launched its own path to prosperity, Mulally said. The company can't afford to try the same old formulas.

"Six years ago, we developed our One Ford plan," Mulally said, "Now, we're bringing that plan to Europe."

Scroll down to continue reading.

Continue reading Ford Europe goes further with American vehicles

Ford Europe goes further with American vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Sep 2012 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan mulallyecoboostecosportedgeescapefiestafordford europefusionkugamondeomustangone fordsporttransittransit connectThu, 06 Sep 2012 14:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20317705/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/06/ford-europe-goes-further-with-american-vehicles/20317705/article-detail.xml 20317705 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/gofurther-attheevent048-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/gofurther-attheevent048-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford unveils slicker, sleeker 2014 Transit Connect [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/ford-unveils-slicker-sleeker-2014-transit-connect/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/ford-unveils-slicker-sleeker-2014-transit-connect/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/ford-unveils-slicker-sleeker-2014-transit-connect/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Well, hello there. Ladies and gentlemen, meet the next-generation Ford Transit Connect (nevermind that Tourneo Connect front plate in the photo above), making its global debut today at an event in Amsterdam. And don't think this is some one-off Euro example, either. The handsome beast you see here will be making its way to North America toward the end of 2013.

As we first saw in some spy shots earlier this week, the next-generation Transit Connect borrows heavily from the smaller Focus and Fiesta models in terms of design, proudly wearing the automaker's trapezoidal grille. Smaller, sleeker headlamps and more pronounced foglamps finish off what's truly an attractive front end, and new wheel options go a long way to rid the TC of its all-work-and-no-play image. Around back, slimmer taillamps have been fitted, and as we can see here, the little van's barn doors have been ditched in favor of a more traditional liftgate. (No word on if Ford will still offer the two-door setup.)

Mum's the word on powertrain details, though Ford's brief press release states that Europe will receive "highly-efficient downsized diesel and petrol engines," while here in the United States, we'll make due with "a tailored range of gasoline powertrains."

European deliveries of the 2014 Transit Connect are scheduled to start at the end of 2013, and U.S.-spec cars should arrive shortly thereafter. Hit the jump for Ford's official press blast.

Continue reading Ford unveils slicker, sleeker 2014 Transit Connect [w/video]

Ford unveils slicker, sleeker 2014 Transit Connect [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford transit connectfordtransit connectThu, 06 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20317189/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/06/ford-unveils-slicker-sleeker-2014-transit-connect/20317189/article-detail.xml 20317189 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/fordtransitconnect01-1346891981_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/fordtransitconnect01-1346891981.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Transit Connect makes a Fiesta face]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/04/ford-transit-connect-makes-a-fiesta-face/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/04/ford-transit-connect-makes-a-fiesta-face/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/04/ford-transit-connect-makes-a-fiesta-face/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Transit Connect spy shots

Since it has made its way to American shores, the Ford Transit Connect has proven to be nearly everything that one could ask for in a small commercial van: utile, frugal and easy to drive in tight quarters. What the van has never been accused of being, however, is particularly pretty. And, while we can't confirm with unerring certainty that the upcoming revision of the TC will be a looker, we do see evidence of a little more form to go with all of that function.

This new set of spy shots indicates that the Transit Connect will borrow liberally from the front end of the Fiesta, with headlights and grille both mimicking that fetching small car. Around back you'd be hard pressed not to notice the thinner, longer rear lighting elements, which appear both sleek and modern even in this heavily cladded context.

The Ford prototype in question makes use of a one-piece tailgate that is hinged on the roof, though we'd expect that the side-hinged double rear doors of the current model will still be available.

Expectations are that the new Transit Connect will arrive in North America and Europe as a 2014 model, sometime in the second half of next year. Small business owners everywhere, rejoice.

Ford Transit Connect makes a Fiesta face originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Sep 2012 19:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford transit connectfordspy photosspy picsspy shotstransit connectTue, 04 Sep 2012 19:22:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20315933/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/04/ford-transit-connect-makes-a-fiesta-face/20315933/article-detail.xml 20315933 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/01-2014-ford-transit-connect-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/01-2014-ford-transit-connect-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford recalling Transit Connect for faulty wipers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/10/ford-recalling-transit-connect-due-to-faulty-wipers/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/10/ford-recalling-transit-connect-due-to-faulty-wipers/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/10/ford-recalling-transit-connect-due-to-faulty-wipers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Ford is recalling 16,330 of its trusty Transit Connect work vans due to faulty windshield wiper arms. All of the affected models are from the 2011 and 2012 model years.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the wiper arms on these Transit Connect models may not have been properly riveted, resulting in "incomplete or inconsistent clearing of the windshield and possible detachment of the wiper arm." NHTSA points out that if the wiper becomes detached, a driver's visibility can be reduced, which can of course lead to a crash.

Ford will begin notifying Transit Connect owners about this problem starting in mid-August, and dealers will replace both wiper arms on affected vehicles free of charge. Scroll down to read the official NHTSA report.

Continue reading Ford recalling Transit Connect for faulty wipers

Ford recalling Transit Connect for faulty wipers originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford transit connect2012 ford transit connectfordnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallsafetytransit connectFri, 10 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20298089/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/10/ford-recalling-transit-connect-due-to-faulty-wipers/20298089/article-detail.xml 20298089 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2011-ford-transit-connect---01_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2011-ford-transit-connect---01.jpg <![CDATA[Next Ford Transit Connect revealed in new patent filings?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/next-ford-transit-connect-revealed-in-new-patent-filings/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/next-ford-transit-connect-revealed-in-new-patent-filings/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/next-ford-transit-connect-revealed-in-new-patent-filings/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ford Transit Connect Patent Images

While these supposedly leaked patent images aren't as sexy as those of the Acura NSX convertible we recently spied, they do point to an interesting new look for the homely Ford Transit Connect.

As the pedestrian delivery van in its current form is in need of a massive upgrade in the aesthetics department, adopting more of a "Ford face" like what's found on the Fiesta and forthcoming Fusion seems like a great idea. We're not sure, however, what to make of the buttresses at the base of the pillars, which reminds us a bit too much of the Honda Element.

While we haven't heard much about when a new Transit Connect might be headed to our shores, according to Left Lane News, Ford may show an almost-production-ready concept at the Paris Motor Show in September.

Next Ford Transit Connect revealed in new patent filings? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordparis 2012paris motor showpatent drawingstransit connectTue, 22 May 2012 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20242055/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/next-ford-transit-connect-revealed-in-new-patent-filings/20242055/article-detail.xml 20242055 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/ford-transit-connect-patent-images01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/ford-transit-connect-patent-images01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Azure Dynamics files for protection, Transit Connect Electric production halted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/azure-dynamics-files-for-bankruptcy-protection-transit-connect-electric/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/azure-dynamics-files-for-bankruptcy-protection-transit-connect-electric/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/azure-dynamics-files-for-bankruptcy-protection-transit-connect-electric/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

transit connect electric

Azure Dynamics, which develops electric-drive powertrains for automakers such as Ford, said this week that it will file for financial protection from its creditors under Canadian law and will cancel its plans to sell shares in what may be a precursor to a bankruptcy filing.

Azure is the company that adds the all-electric powertrain to Ford's practical little Transit Connect Electric. For now, no new TCEs will be made. Azure's Mike Elwood told AutoblogGreen that production of the Transit Connect Electric has stopped as a result of the restructuring and that, "While we go through our restructuring there will be no TCE activity until we present an approved plan." We're told that warranty issues for those who have already purchased a Transit Connect Electric will be a part of this plan.

Ford's Wes Sherwood told AutoblogGreen that Azure's filing does not affect Ford's overall EV and green-vehicle strategy. "Our priority is to ensure that Azure's Transit Connect Electric customers continue to have support throughout their ownership experience," he said. "Our Ford electric vehicle product plans remain on track, as part of our commitment to provide customers the power of choice for fuel economy solutions across our lineup - from EcoBoost-powered vehicles and hybrids to plug-in hybrids and full electrics."

Azure Dynamics joins a list of companies that were looking to capitalize on an increase in demand for battery-electric and plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles but have had problems staying afloat. Extended-range plug-in utility vehicle maker Bright Automotive folded last month amid its claims that the federal government took too long to process the $400 million in loans promised to the company, while Fisker Automotive, which makes the extended-range plug-in Karma, has faced questions about its own future and most of the federal government loans earmarked for the company have been delayed.

Continue reading Azure Dynamics files for protection, Transit Connect Electric production halted

Azure Dynamics files for protection, Transit Connect Electric production halted originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asset protectionazureazure dynamicsbankruptcycanadacreditorselectric vehiclefordtransit connectFri, 30 Mar 2012 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20204861/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/30/azure-dynamics-files-for-bankruptcy-protection-transit-connect-electric/20204861/article-detail.xml 20204861 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/ford-transit-connect-electric-628h_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/ford-transit-connect-electric-628h.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #253]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/autoblog-podcast-253/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/autoblog-podcast-253/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/autoblog-podcast-253/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Chevy Camaro ZL1, BMW 3 Series Diesel/Wagon, diesel boom, Nissan Titan hangs on

autoblog podcast

Episode #253 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, with Chris, Zach, Dan and Steven Ewing serving as this week's crew. Topics include the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, the 2012 BMW 3 Series diesel and wagon, the coming wave of diesels from other automakers and Nissan sticking with its Titan pickup for a while. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #253:
In the Autoblog Garage
2011 Lexus RX 450h
2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn
2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8
2011 Ford Transit Connect


Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Zach Bowman, Steven Ewing
Runtime: 01:09:21
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #253

Autoblog Podcast #253 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series300300c srt8autoblog podcastautoblog podcast 253 livecamarofeaturedglijettarxtransit connectzl1Wed, 26 Oct 2011 10:15:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #253Autoblog01:09:21 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20088435/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/26/autoblog-podcast-253/20088435/article-detail.xml 20088435 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Transit Connect Electric to qualify for $15,000 rebate in California]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/20/ford-transit-connect-electric-to-qualify-for-15-000-rebate-in-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/20/ford-transit-connect-electric-to-qualify-for-15-000-rebate-in-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/20/ford-transit-connect-electric-to-qualify-for-15-000-rebate-in-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Transit Connect Electric

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is set to add an additional category to its Hybrid Incentive Voucher Program (HVIP) that awards buyers of zero-emissions light-duty commercial vehicles, including the Ford Transit Connect Electric, a discount of up to $15,000 on their green vehicle purchase.

Starting in November, light-duty zero-emissions commercial vehicles with a GVWR between 5,001 and 8,500 pounds will be eligible for vouchers of up to $15,000 in California. This discount will reportedly be available to all fleets, public or private, that register the zero-emissions vehicles in the state of California. This $15,000 discount, coupled with the federal government's $7,500 tax credit, means that some buyers of the Transit Connect Electric will get a whopping $22,500 off the vehicle's $57,400 price tag.

Vouchers for the light-duty zero-emissions category are valued at $15,000 for a fleet's first vehicle ordered, with $12,000 off all purchases thereafter for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2011. Proposed vouchers for Fiscal Year 2012 dip to $12,000 for the first three vehicles, $10,000 for the next 27 purchased, $8,000 for vehicles 31-65 and $6,000 for vehicles 66-100.

Ford Transit Connect Electric to qualify for $15,000 rebate in California originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>azure dynamicscalifornia air resources boardcarbfordincentiverebatesubsidytransit connecttransit connect electricThu, 20 Oct 2011 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20085784/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/20/ford-transit-connect-electric-to-qualify-for-15-000-rebate-in-c/20085784/article-detail.xml 20085784 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/ford-transit-connect-electric-630m_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/ford-transit-connect-electric-630m.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Transit Connect CNG taxis swing into action across U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/10/ford-transit-connect-cng-taxis-swing-into-action-across-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/10/ford-transit-connect-cng-taxis-swing-into-action-across-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/10/ford-transit-connect-cng-taxis-swing-into-action-across-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford Transit Connect CNG Taxi

The next time you hail a cab in Southern California, you could be jumping into a vehicle fueled by clean-burning compressed natural gas (CNG). That's because California Yellow Cab of Orange County has become the state's first taxi company to put CNG-fueled Ford Transit Connect vans into service. California Yellow Cab says 10 (and soon more than 120) natural gas Connects are on the roads and ready to pick up passengers in the greater Los Angeles area.

Meanwhile, over in Chicago, Taxi Medallion Management says it has a dozen Ford Transit Connect CNG taxis in service. And in Connecticut, two cab companies are waiting for Ford to fulfill orders for 70 CNG-fueled Transit Connect taxis.

Later on, CNG-fueled Transits will ship out to Las Vegas and St. Louis. Philadelphia is expected to get in on the CNG action, too, once city officials approve natural gas vehicles for taxi duty.

Continue reading Ford Transit Connect CNG taxis swing into action across U.S.

Ford Transit Connect CNG taxis swing into action across U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 10 Sep 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cngcompressed natural gasfordlos angelesnatural gastaxitransit connectSat, 10 Sep 2011 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20039483/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/10/ford-transit-connect-cng-taxis-swing-into-action-across-u-s/20039483/article-detail.xml 20039483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/cngtaxilede_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/cngtaxilede.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Transit Connect Taxi approved for NYC cab duty]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/ford-transit-connect-taxi-approved-for-nyc-cab-duty/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/ford-transit-connect-taxi-approved-for-nyc-cab-duty/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/ford-transit-connect-taxi-approved-for-nyc-cab-duty/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Ford Transit Connect Taxi

New York City's post-Crown-Victoria future is becoming clearer. It was nearly a year ago that the selection of the future NYC yellow taxi was narrowed to three: the Nissan NV200, Ford Transit Connect Taxi and the Turkish entry, the Karsan V1. And although the Karsan was the people's choice, the Nissan NV200 was chosen as the official livery chariot for the next ten years.

Interestingly, even though the NV200 has 'official' status, the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) can approve other vehicles for the fleet, and that's just what they've gone and done with the Transit Connect Taxi. That means that taxi companies can choose to add the yellow, 2.0-liter gas-powered van to their stables if they choose (and presumably their upcoming CNG and EV models as well). The approval opens another door to the Transit's by-the-mile transit victories, joining to Boston, Philadelphia and Orlando and California. Also of note is that it joins another Ford product that received the nod in New York - the Taurus.

There's a press release after the jump with more information. No word on whether the folks from Turkey can expect similar news anytime soon.

Continue reading Ford Transit Connect Taxi approved for NYC cab duty

Ford Transit Connect Taxi approved for NYC cab duty originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ford transit connect taxiliverynew yorknew york taxitaxitaxi and limousine commissiontaxi cabtransit connecttransit connect taxiThu, 21 Jul 2011 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19997144/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/21/ford-transit-connect-taxi-approved-for-nyc-cab-duty/19997144/article-detail.xml 19997144 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2011-ford-transit-connect-taxi-snow_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2011-ford-transit-connect-taxi-snow.jpg <![CDATA[NYC fleet adds 70 plug-in vehicles, including Chevy Volt cop cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/nyc-fleet-adds-70-plug-in-vehicles-including-chevy-volt-cop-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/nyc-fleet-adds-70-plug-in-vehicles-including-chevy-volt-cop-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/nyc-fleet-adds-70-plug-in-vehicles-including-chevy-volt-cop-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

NYC Chevrolet Volt police car
NYC Chevy Volt Police Car - Click above for high-res image gallery

As much as the average driver doesn't really have to worry about "range anxiety" during a normal driving day, we will grant you that an electric police car that could run out of juice during a car chase is a bad idea. That last scene in Blues Brothers wouldn't have been all that impressive and crash-y had all those cop cars shifted into limp mode at some point. On the other hand, pure EVs can work wonders in reducing a city fleet's fuel use, and so can most certainly find a home in urban areas. Yesterday, NYC's Mayor, Michael Bloomberg, announced a best-of-both-worlds addition to his city's fleet:
Part of PlaNYC, the plug-in vehicles will join 360 other EVs in the city's fleet as a component of an effort to reduce emissions and to have the Big Apple "lead by example," Bloomberg said. Nine different city departments - including FDNY, NYPD and the Department of Environmental Protection (see the whole list after the jump) - will use the vehicles, all in "non-emergency duties" for now. NYC's plug-in vehicle fleet now stands at 430 vehicles and is being called the "largest municipal electric vehicle fleet in the country." Hey, Chicago or Seattle or LA or whoever... step up, would ya?

Continue reading NYC fleet adds 70 plug-in vehicles, including Chevy Volt cop cars

NYC fleet adds 70 plug-in vehicles, including Chevy Volt cop cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-starfdnyford transit connect electricgreenmichael bloombergnyc ford transit connectnyc navi-starnypdplanycplug-in hybridtransit connectvoltvolt police carWed, 13 Jul 2011 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19990533/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/13/nyc-fleet-adds-70-plug-in-vehicles-including-chevy-volt-cop-car/19990533/article-detail.xml 19990533 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/nyc-chevrolet-volt-police-car-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/nyc-chevrolet-volt-police-car-630.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat may supply Ram Van replacement for Dodge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/11/fiat-may-supply-ram-van-replacement-for-dodge/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/11/fiat-may-supply-ram-van-replacement-for-dodge/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/11/fiat-may-supply-ram-van-replacement-for-dodge/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2010 Fiat Ducato
Fiat Ducato - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's looking like Chrysler may be ready to re-badge a couple more European vans and bring them to our shores. The automaker is reportedly weighing the option of bringing the pint-sized
front-wheel-drive Fiat Doblo, its bigger brother the Ducato and the seriously meaty Iveco Daily to these shores, all vans to be marketed under the recently minted Ram brand.

We figure that Chrysler would aim the Doblo squarely at the Ford Transit Connect, another European hauler repurposed for the U.S., while the Ducato would slot nicely in the hole left by the departed Dodge Sprinter. For bigger jobs, enter the Iveco Daily, which sees use in nearly every other part of the world to haul just about anything.

Fiat may supply Ram Van replacement for Dodge originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdoblododgedodge sprinterducatofiatfiat doblofiat ducatoford transit connectivecoiveco dailyramsprintertransittransit connectMon, 11 Jul 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19987158/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/11/fiat-may-supply-ram-van-replacement-for-dodge/19987158/article-detail.xml 19987158 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/fiat-ducato-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/fiat-ducato-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Review: 2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/14/2011-ford-transit-connect-xlt-premium-wagon-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/14/2011-ford-transit-connect-xlt-premium-wagon-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/14/2011-ford-transit-connect-xlt-premium-wagon-review-road-test/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A Minivan For Entrepreneurs, Not Moms

2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT
2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT - Click above for high-res image gallery

You are no doubt familiar with the Transit Connect, the panel van that Ford began importing from Europe in mid-2009. You've probably noticed them in your neighborhood with things like custom cakes, cable companies, cat groomers and cleaning services advertised on their flat, windowless sides. You'll be seeing even more of them soon as the Transit Connect Taxi begins replacing the Crown Victoria in taxi fleets across the country.

Transit Connects are everywhere now. It turns out business owners were tired of only being offered a full-size truck or van for their commercial fleet needs, because in many cases a small, fuel efficient panel van can do the same job far better and more cheaply.

And sure, automakers have tried selling windowless commercial versions of their passenger vehicles before, but how many Chevrolet HHR Panel vans have you seen in your neighborhood? The Transit Connect has done a better job appealing to businesses because the precious cargo that it's purpose-built to carry are tools, supplies and maybe a six-tier buttercream-frosted red velvet wedding cake... not kids.

So what happens when Ford takes its popular new commercial van and creates a version for moving people? The result is called the Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon, and it is not at all what we expected.

Continue reading Review: 2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon...


Gallery: 2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT: Review

2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT

Photos copyright (C)2011 John Neff / AOL

Continue reading Review: 2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon [w/video]

Review: 2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford transit connect xltfeaturedfordford+connectford+transit+connectfordconnectfordtransitconnectreviewreviewstransit connecttransit connect xlttransit+connect+reviewstransitconnectreviewsThu, 14 Apr 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19912397/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/14/2011-ford-transit-connect-xlt-premium-wagon-review-road-test/19912397/article-detail.xml 19912397 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2011-ford-transit-connect---01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2011-ford-transit-connect---01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford investing $400M in Kansas City plant for unnamed new car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/19/ford-investing-400m-in-kansas-city-plant-for-unnamed-new-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/19/ford-investing-400m-in-kansas-city-plant-for-unnamed-new-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/19/ford-investing-400m-in-kansas-city-plant-for-unnamed-new-car/#commentsFiled under: ,

2009 Ford F-150 at Kansas City Assembly Plant

Ford has announced plans to invest $400 million in its Kansas City Assembly plant in Missouri. The company is shifting production of the Escape from that facility to its Louisville, Kentucky plant, which will open up a line for an unnamed model. There's some indication that the FoMoCo crew is planning to build the Transit Connect alongside the F-150 at the Kansas City facility. Regardless of what model Ford plans to build there, the company's investment will go toward new tooling, a new body shop and other improvements, while managing to save 3,750 jobs in the process.

Ford will receive around $150 million in tax breaks over 10 years for keeping the Kansas City plant up and kicking as part of the 2010 Missouri Manufacturing Jobs Act. The legislation provides tax incentives for automakers who retain jobs through new investments.

The Blue Oval is now in the process of retooling a total of four plants for upcoming products. The company just recently announced that it is investing $600 million in the Louisville, Kentucky plant to produced the next-generation Escape. Hit the jump for the press release.

[Sources: Ford, Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Continue reading Ford investing $400M in Kansas City plant for unnamed new car

Ford investing $400M in Kansas City plant for unnamed new car originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>escapefordford escapeford transit connectkansas citykansas city assembly planttransit connectWed, 19 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19806789/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/19/ford-investing-400m-in-kansas-city-plant-for-unnamed-new-car/19806789/article-detail.xml 19806789 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/kansas-city-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/kansas-city-630.jpg -1 2