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[2014 Ford Transit unveiled in Chassis Cab and Cutaway versions]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/2014-ford-transit-unveiled-in-chassis-cab-and-cutaway-versions/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/2014-ford-transit-unveiled-in-chassis-cab-and-cutaway-versions/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/2014-ford-transit-unveiled-in-chassis-cab-and-cutaway-versions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Ford Transit cutaway cab - front three-quarter view, white

As a leader in commercial vehicles here in the US, we knew Ford wouldn't take too long to show off the chassis cab and cutaway versions of its 2014 Ford Transit van. Set to go on sale this fall, Ford already revealed the full-body version of the Transit, and now it has pulled the cover off exposed-frame models just in time to to compete against the all-new Ram Promaster.

The term "chassis cab" refers to models with a fully enclosed cabin used for box vans or rental trucks, while cutaway models leave the cabin open behind the B-pillars for a pass-through on vehicles such as Class C motorhomes or ambulances. Both will offer three wheelbase options (138, 156 and 178 inches), the choice of single or dually rear axles, and plenty of upfitter-friendly touches including a pre-wired body harness and multiple body mount locations.

The new design will also help make upfitting a little easier since the fuel filler is now built into the cab (just behind the driver's door). Those integrated fuel filler necks will serve to feed either a 3.7-liter V6, a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, or a 3.2-liter Power Stroke diesel. Transit chassis cab and cutaways will wear varying Gross vehicle weight ratings from 9,000 pounds to 10,360 pounds depending on spec.

Like all US-spec Transit models, the chassis cab and cutaway will be built at Ford's Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Missouri. About the only thing that has yet to be announced for the new Transit is its pricing.

Continue reading 2014 Ford Transit unveiled in Chassis Cab and Cutaway versions

2014 Ford Transit unveiled in Chassis Cab and Cutaway versions originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford transitchassis cabcommercial truckingcutawayfordtransittransit chassis cabtransit cutawaytruckingFri, 08 Mar 2013 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20490329/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/08/2014-ford-transit-unveiled-in-chassis-cab-and-cutaway-versions/20490329/article-detail.xml 20490329 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-ford-transit-chassis-cab_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-ford-transit-chassis-cab.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[Would you like your Ford Transit in Large, XL or XXL?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/would-you-like-your-ford-transit-in-large-xl-or-xxl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/would-you-like-your-ford-transit-in-large-xl-or-xxl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/would-you-like-your-ford-transit-in-large-xl-or-xxl/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Get ready plumbers, ambulance drivers and airport shuttles; the 2014 Ford Transit is finally here... almost. Ahead of the truck going on sale next fall, Ford dropped most of the details for its new fullsize van, but, as is the case with any vehicle unveiled so far ahead of its release date, pricing, engine power and fuel economy figures were not announced.

Using the Transit's European styling to its advantage, Ford is actually able to offer more build configurations including two wheelbases, three overall lengths and three roof heights. In base form, the Transit will ride on a 129.9-inch wheel base with an 83.2-inch tall roof, and the biggest version will add almost 20 inches to the wheelbase and almost 30 inches to the roof height. Customers will also be able to choose from folding or sliding side doors and side panels with or without side windows as well as chassis cab and cutaway models.

Under the hood, the Transit will replace the thirsty V8 and V10 engines from the E-Series with a trio of smaller engines aimed at improving fuel economy without sacrificing capability. The base engine is the 3.7-liter V6 that is able to run on E85, but Ford also designed it to run on compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquid propane gas (LPG). Optional engines includes the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 and the 3.2-liter Power Stroke turbo diesel five-cylinder. All engines will be paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The big advantage the Transit will have is its interior. The high-roof version will be able to provide 80 percent more cargo volume than the E-Series, and for easier loading of cargo, the rear doors are able to swing open a full 270 degrees; all of the cargo versions have been for easy upfitting of shelves, racks or just about anything necessary to make it easier for companies to get the job done. The long-wheelbase passenger model can accommodate up to 15 passengers, and the Transit will be available with MyFord Touch and navigation displayed on a 6.5-inch touch screen.

Scroll down for the official press release for Ford's all-new van.

Continue reading Would you like your Ford Transit in Large, XL or XXL?

Would you like your Ford Transit in Large, XL or XXL? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford transitcommercial vane-seriesfordford e-seriestransitvanFri, 14 Dec 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20403501/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/14/would-you-like-your-ford-transit-in-large-xl-or-xxl/20403501/article-detail.xml 20403501 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/001-2014-ford-transit-live628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/001-2014-ford-transit-live628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford confirms 3.2L diesel five-cylinder for US-spec 2014 Transit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/10/ford-confirms-3-2l-diesel-five-cylinder-for-us-spec-2014-transit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/10/ford-confirms-3-2l-diesel-five-cylinder-for-us-spec-2014-transit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/10/ford-confirms-3-2l-diesel-five-cylinder-for-us-spec-2014-transit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



To ensure that its new 2014 Ford Transit will be able to get the job done when it goes on sale in the US next year, Ford announced that its new work van will be offered with a diesel engine that balances power and fuel economy. The Transit is already on sale with the diesel in other markets, but Ford confirmed that the 3.2-liter I5 Power Stroke will mark the return of a diesel engine to its full-size van for the first time since the 6.0-liter Power Stroke V8 was phased out of the E-Series in 2010.

Power ratings for the US-spec Transit Power Stroke have not been announced yet, but Ford says these engines in European versions of the van are rated at 197 horsepower and 347 pound-feet of torque - 90 percent of the engine's torque will be available between 1,700 rpm and 3,500 rpm. Although these figures are far less than the most recent Power Stroke in the E-Series rated at 235 hp and 440 lb-ft, this new engine is expected to be cleaner and more efficient. Ford expects the new Power Stroke to be able to run on B20 biodiesel fuel.

The 3.2-liter Power Stroke will be built in South Africa and exported to the Ford Kansas City Assembly Plant where the Transit will be built. In addition to the new diesel engine, the Transit will also be available with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, and all engines will be paired with six-speed automatic transmissions.

Scroll down to read Ford's official press release.

Continue reading Ford confirms 3.2L diesel five-cylinder for US-spec 2014 Transit

Ford confirms 3.2L diesel five-cylinder for US-spec 2014 Transit originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford transit3.2l power strokedieselfordford dieselpower strokepowerstroketransittransit dieselwork truckMon, 10 Dec 2012 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20397053/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/10/ford-confirms-3-2l-diesel-five-cylinder-for-us-spec-2014-transit/20397053/article-detail.xml 20397053 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/fordtransit01-1346892939_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/fordtransit01-1346892939.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[2014 Ford Transit offers big utility with EcoBoost and diesel power]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/2014-ford-transit-offers-big-utility-with-ecoboost-and-diesel-po/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/2014-ford-transit-offers-big-utility-with-ecoboost-and-diesel-po/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/2014-ford-transit-offers-big-utility-with-ecoboost-and-diesel-po/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The redesigned 2014 Transit Connect isn't the only commercial van news coming out of Ford today. For heavy-duty haulers, the automaker has officially pulled back the cover on its larger Transit van, which will eventually replace the older-than-dirt E-Series here in the United States.

In both North America and Europe, Ford will offer the new Transit in a wide variety of body styles, incorporating both long and short wheelbases, as well as standard- and tall-roof variants. And as we've already learned, Ford will build the U.S.-spec Transit in Kansas City, Missouri, right alongside the F-150 pickup.

European customers will be able to choose between front-, rear-, and all-wheel-drive versions of the Transit, powered by Ford's 2.2-liter Duratorq TDCi diesel inline-four. In the United States, however, only rear-wheel drive will be offered, though in addition to a "powerful diesel option," we'll be able to spec our Transit models with Ford's tried-and-true 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6.

Like the smaller Transit Connect, Ford will launch the big daddy Transit near the end of 2013. Read the full details in the press release below.

Continue reading 2014 Ford Transit offers big utility with EcoBoost and diesel power

2014 Ford Transit offers big utility with EcoBoost and diesel power originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Sep 2012 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford transitfordtransitThu, 06 Sep 2012 09:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20317190/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/06/2014-ford-transit-offers-big-utility-with-ecoboost-and-diesel-po/20317190/article-detail.xml 20317190 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/fordtransit01-1346892939_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/fordtransit01-1346892939.jpg <![CDATA[First look at U.S.-spec Ford Transit snapped]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/first-look-at-u-s-spec-ford-transit-snapped/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/first-look-at-u-s-spec-ford-transit-snapped/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/first-look-at-u-s-spec-ford-transit-snapped/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Transit Spy Photos

Most of the time our spy shots reveal the sexy new lines of the latest sports car or some subtle curves that hint at the new direction for a midsize sedan. Today things are a little different. Boxier, more van-like. Yet the forthcoming 2013 Ford Transit our spy shooters captured roaming the streets of Detroit is unlike any cargo van Americans have ever known.

For the first time, Ford has deemed us worthy of getting a version of its European workhorse. If you've been following the drama, the venerable E-Series van is slated for the long walk into the sunset. That's right, millions of plumbers, delivery guys, shuttle bus drivers and even a few shag-carpet-loving conversion van aficionados are going to have to learn to love a new mistress.

Ford has hinted that the American version of the Transit will be truckier than the curvy European version previewed by the Transit Tourneo Custom Concept. Expect it to look like a cross between the European model and an F-150. Ford has said the van will be powered by a version of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost that's already under the hood of the F-150, and that there will be a diesel variant as well.

Check out all 12 of the high-res images in our gallery.

First look at U.S.-spec Ford Transit snapped originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford transite-seriese-series vansE150ecoboostfordtransitvanTue, 07 Aug 2012 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20295489/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/07/first-look-at-u-s-spec-ford-transit-snapped/20295489/article-detail.xml 20295489 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ford-transit-spy-photos-003-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ford-transit-spy-photos-003-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford introduces cargo van version of Transit Custom]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/ford-introduces-cargo-van-version-of-transit-custom/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/ford-introduces-cargo-van-version-of-transit-custom/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/ford-introduces-cargo-van-version-of-transit-custom/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Transit Custom Cargo Van

European buyers now know what to expect from the Ford Transit Custom cargo van. The work version of the van bowed at the Birmingham Commercial Vehicle Show this week with the new exterior and more refined cabin that first appeared on the Ford Tourneo Custom passenger van.

Buyers outside of North America will be able to choose between a short wheelbase version with a total length of 16.3 feet or a long wheelbase configuration that spans 17.5 feet from stem to stern. Indoors, the van can deliver up to 212 cubic feet of cargo area, or three european pallets stacked three-feet high. In addition, the floor offers enough space between the wheel wells to accommodate a 4x8 sheet of material.

The Transit Custom isn't headed to the North American market, though, which begs the question: Why do we care? Ford is set to replace the aging E-Series with a different Transit van that's specific to our continent, though that vehicle will be based on the global Transit Custom we see here. According to Ford, our van will yield 25-percent better fuel economy than the current E-Series thanks to either the same Ecoboost 3.5-liter V6 currently found in the nose of the F-150 or a diesel powerplant. The North American Transit is also supposed to weigh in 300 pounds less than its predecessor.

Continue reading Ford introduces cargo van version of Transit Custom

Ford introduces cargo van version of Transit Custom originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cargo vanfordford transitford transit customtransittransit cargo vantransit custom cargo vanWed, 18 Apr 2012 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20218425/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/18/ford-introduces-cargo-van-version-of-transit-custom/20218425/article-detail.xml 20218425 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-transit-cutsom-cargo-van-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-transit-cutsom-cargo-van-628.jpg <![CDATA[Diesel returning to full-size Ford vans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/diesel-returning-to-full-size-ford-vans/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/diesel-returning-to-full-size-ford-vans/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/diesel-returning-to-full-size-ford-vans/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ford transit

The new Ford Transit cargo van promises improved fuel economy compared to the outgoing E-Series, in part because it will be powered by the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. But that's not the only mill that will be powering the Transit. Ford announced that the fresh take on cargo vans will also boast a diesel powerplant option when it makes it to production in 2013.

Ford hasn't yet delved into any specifics about the diesel powerplant, but The Blue Oval is confident that buyers will experience some serious fuel savings. The automaker says the choice of a turbo-six or an oil burner plus over 300 pounds in weight savings versus the Econoline should combine for 25 percent better fuel economy. That could lead to serious savings at the pump for the independent contractor and large fleets should save some major cash as well.

In fact, Ford is so confident that the new Kansas City-built Transit and its other products will deliver big fuel economy benefits that it's developed a tool to show fleets just how much fuel and CO2 can be saved. The Vehicle Emissions and Fuel Cost Calculator utilizes a wide range of data like vehicle type and traffic conditions to evaluate overall fuel costs and carbon emissions. Hit the jump to read over the Ford press release.

Continue reading Diesel returning to full-size Ford vans

Diesel returning to full-size Ford vans originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford transitdiesele-seriesecoboostfordford dieselfuel efficiencytransitWed, 28 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20202483/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/28/diesel-returning-to-full-size-ford-vans/20202483/article-detail.xml 20202483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/transitwhatvanawards-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/transitwhatvanawards-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Transit van will be offered with EcoBoost V6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/ford-transit-van-will-be-offer/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/ford-transit-van-will-be-offer/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/ford-transit-van-will-be-offer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford Transit Ecoboost V6

We love ourselves some Ford Transit Connect. The funky-looking little vanlet is so endearingly functional that we're happy to forgive its lackluster drivetrain and questionable interior. Now it appears that Ford aims to address at least one of these ails with its big brother, the upcoming larger Transit Van.

Ford has announced that buyers of the van that will eventually replace the aged Econoline in America will be able to order Ford's twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that puts power to the Transit's rear wheels. Ford hasn't released any specifics on power output or fuel economy just yet, but the same engine is good for a heavenly 365 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque when bolted to the F-150 where it accounts for 40 percent of sales.

Even in that heavier chassis, the EcoBoost V6 returns 18 mpg combined compared to 23 mpg combined for the smaller Transit Connect Van with its 136-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Ford also hasn't said what we can expect in terms of tow rating or gross vehicle weight, though those are certain to keep pace with the current E-Series van as a result of the staggering amount of torque available from the turbocharged, direct-injection Ecoboost V6.

Continue reading Ford Transit van will be offered with EcoBoost V6

Ford Transit van will be offered with EcoBoost V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecoboostecoboost transitfordford ecoboost transitford transit connecttransitMon, 05 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20185758/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/ford-transit-van-will-be-offer/20185758/article-detail.xml 20185758 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/transit-connect-engine-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/transit-connect-engine-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Tourneo Custom Concept previews new European people mover]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/ford-tourneo-custom-concept-previews-new-european-people-mover/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/ford-tourneo-custom-concept-previews-new-european-people-mover/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/ford-tourneo-custom-concept-previews-new-european-people-mover/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Let's clear the air. This is not - we repeat, not - the Ford E-Series-replacing Transit that will be built and sold in the United States next year. According to our contacts at Ford, this Tourneo Custom Concept previews what the next generation of front-wheel-drive, passenger-friendly Transits will look like when they go on sale in Europe and other world markets. The North American-spec van will be based off of the heavy-duty, rear-wheel-drive Transit that's set to debut later this year.

So, let's talk Tourneo. This eight-passenger van is essentially Ford's answer to vehicles like the Renault Trafic or Volkswagen Caravelle - more butch than a minivan, with a higher ride height and more interior space. Ford says that the Tourneo Concept boasts a rich, comfortable, leather-trimmed interior with seats that can be rearranged into a number of different configurations.

Ford has only released this one image as of now, but it's clear that the automaker's Kinetic design has found a home on even its largest vehicles. Up front is the Blue Oval's signature trapezoidal grille, and strong profile lines on the sides swoop upward toward the rear in an effort to make this barn-on-wheels look as fluid and sleek as possible. Under the hood, a range of 2.2-liter turbo-diesel powertrains are available, in 98-, 123- and 153-horsepower variants, all of which are mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

We'll see the Tourneo in person in just a few weeks at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. As for the U.S.-spec Transit, it'll be a while before that officially breaks cover. Hit the jump for all of the juicy Tourneo Concept details in Ford's press release.

Continue reading Ford Tourneo Custom Concept previews new European people mover

Ford Tourneo Custom Concept previews new European people mover originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptfordford transitgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showtourneotourneo custom concepttransitTue, 21 Feb 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20176273/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/21/ford-tourneo-custom-concept-previews-new-european-people-mover/20176273/article-detail.xml 20176273 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tourneo628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tourneo628.jpg <![CDATA[How Ford plans to phase out the best-selling E-Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/how-ford-plans-to-phase-out-the-best-selling-e-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/how-ford-plans-to-phase-out-the-best-selling-e-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/how-ford-plans-to-phase-out-the-best-selling-e-series/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In a commercial market where "change" is a four-letter word, Ford has a lot of explaining to do.

It is not often that an automaker decides to dump a best-selling vehicle line, one that's dominated its segment for decades. But Ford's commercial vehicle team is doing it not once, but twice. Ford had been phasing out its Panther platform for a good five years before it finally ceased production of its Crown Victoria taxi, Police Interceptor and Lincoln Town Car livery offerings in September. Now the company is set to do similarly with its E-Series van, which will eventually be replaced by Ford's Transit, the venerable European equivalent. Ford divulged a few more details about its commercial vehicle plans at a press event in Dearborn yesterday.

When the final Panthers rolled off the assembly line in St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada, Ford was left with no direct replacement. Instead, the company plans to sell the compact Transit Connect van in the taxi market, upgraded Tauruses and Explorers as police cars, and a "Town Car" version of the Lincoln MKT crossover to livery operators. All things being equal, these are significantly better products than their Panther-based predecessors, yet in a commercial market where "change" is a four-letter word, Ford has a lot of explaining to do.

Continue reading How Ford plans to phase out the best-selling E-Series

How Ford plans to phase out the best-selling E-Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-serieseconolinefordford e-seriesford econolineford transitpanther platformpolice interceptortaxitown cartransitThu, 08 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20123684/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/08/how-ford-plans-to-phase-out-the-best-selling-e-series/20123684/article-detail.xml 20123684 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/transitwhatvanawards-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/transitwhatvanawards-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford confirms $1.1B investment to build Transit van in Kansas City]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/21/ford-confirms-1-1b-investment-to-build-transit-van-in-kansas-ci/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/21/ford-confirms-1-1b-investment-to-build-transit-van-in-kansas-ci/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/21/ford-confirms-1-1b-investment-to-build-transit-van-in-kansas-ci/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Transit Van

Ford has confirmed that its Transit van will be manufactured in Kansas City. The company plans to invest $1.1 billion in facility upgrades and tooling to produce both the next-generation F-150 and the Transit in preparation for the van's arrival on U.S. soil in 2013. That investment is $700 million more than Ford had previously allocated for its Kansas City facility. Ford says the extra cash will go toward new paint and body shops in addition to an integrated stamping plant. The upgrades will also allow Ford to increase F-150 pickup production with the addition of a second manufacturing shift.

Previously, we had heard word that Ford would embrace the T-Series naming convention for the Transit, with models breaking down into trim levels similar to what's seen on the current F-Series, though the press release after the jump specifically refers to the new van as the Transit. Does that mean Ford will rely on a new system of trim designation for the van? It's hard to say, but either way, it certainly sounds like the days of the E-Series/Econoline range are numbered. Hit the jump to see the full press release for yourself.

Continue reading Ford confirms $1.1B investment to build Transit van in Kansas City

Ford confirms $1.1B investment to build Transit van in Kansas City originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-serieseconolinef-150fordford f-150ford transitford transit vankansas citytransittransit vanFri, 21 Oct 2011 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20087369/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/21/ford-confirms-1-1b-investment-to-build-transit-van-in-kansas-ci/20087369/article-detail.xml 20087369 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/transit-van_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/transit-van.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Transit van coming to America as Kansas City-built T-Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/ford-transit-van-coming-to-america-as-kansas-city-built-t-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/ford-transit-van-coming-to-america-as-kansas-city-built-t-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/ford-transit-van-coming-to-america-as-kansas-city-built-t-series/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Ford Transit SportVan

When Daimler started selling its Sprinter van in North America - first as a Freightliner, then as a Mercedes-Benz and even a Dodge - it found companies on this side of the Atlantic were as keen to get their hands on a European-style van as, well, European companies are. But the Sprinter is about to get some European competition from... an American automaker.

That Ford makes certain products for overseas markets is nothing new, but as part of its drive to standardize its lineup around the world, the Blue Oval automaker is apparently planning on bringing its full-size Transit van Stateside.

Not only is it bringing the Transit to the American market, but it will also be building it here, too. The news is confirmed by a recent United Auto Workers announcement that reveals that, with production of the next-generation Escape moving to Louisville, Kentucky, the Transit will be assembled for local consumption alongside the F-150 pickup truck at the Kansas City plant.

According to Car and Driver sources, in order to avoid confusion with the smaller Transit Connect, the big van will be badged as a T-Series in this market, with nameplates like T-250, T-450 and T-550 - similar to the F-Series trucks, and more pertinently, the E-Series vans that used to be known as the Econoline. They can call it whatever they want; we just hope we get a version of the UK-market limited-edition SportVan pictured above.

Ford Transit van coming to America as Kansas City-built T-Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-seriesfordford transitford truckkansas citytransituawunited auto workersWed, 05 Oct 2011 10:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20074193/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/05/ford-transit-van-coming-to-america-as-kansas-city-built-t-series/20074193/article-detail.xml 20074193 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/webfordtransitsilverspo-1317810016_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/webfordtransitsilverspo-1317810016.jpg <![CDATA[Slide presentation confirms Ford E-Series being nixed in favor of Transit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/slide-presentation-confirms-ford-e-series-being-nixed-in-favor-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/slide-presentation-confirms-ford-e-series-being-nixed-in-favor-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/slide-presentation-confirms-ford-e-series-being-nixed-in-favor-o/#commentsFiled under: ,

ford transit

First the Panther platform and now E-Series vans? That might be the case, according to a presentation shown to investors at a Ford press event held alongside the Frankfurt Motor Show. The discussion centered on how Ford is reducing costs by producing global vehicles on singular platforms. This includes its commercial van lineup, and it sounds like the entire bulk of that business will soon be shouldered by the Ford Transit.

The presentation was led by Ford CFO Lewis Booth. He showed slides to the audience, and the E-Series van was noticeably absent from his discussion. Wards Auto reached out to Ford for an official comment, but the automaker declined to talk about the matter.

The Blue Oval's actions speak louder than words, however, because preparations are already underway for the next generation of Europe's favorite commercial van. In addition to an investment in its Turkey plant, Ford has also sent out a proposal to the United Auto Workers union that discusses a new product to be built at the automaker's Avon Lake, Ohio facility starting in 2014.

That's the facility that just happens to be the current home of E-Series production.

Vaya con dios E-Series, you've served this country proudly since 1961.

Slide presentation confirms Ford E-Series being nixed in favor of Transit originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-seriesfordford e-seriesford transitford vanlewis boothtransittransit vanThu, 15 Sep 2011 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20043831/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/15/slide-presentation-confirms-ford-e-series-being-nixed-in-favor-o/20043831/article-detail.xml 20043831 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/000-ford-transit-1316105491_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/000-ford-transit-1316105491.jpg <![CDATA[V8 Ford Transit connects with the fine art of drifting]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/06/v8-ford-transit-connects-with-the-fine-art-of-drifting/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/06/v8-ford-transit-connects-with-the-fine-art-of-drifting/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/06/v8-ford-transit-connects-with-the-fine-art-of-drifting/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ford transit drift van

Drift vehicles come in all shapes, from the ever-popular Nissan 240SX all the way up to Mike Ryan's Freightliner. Somewhere on that vast scale of driftables sits this V8-powered Ford Transit van, which can roast tires with extreme prejudice. It also sounds fantastic, whips up donuts faster than Dunkin and drifts through turns with grace.

Click past the jump to see the drift van in action.

Continue reading V8 Ford Transit connects with the fine art of drifting

V8 Ford Transit connects with the fine art of drifting originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 06 Aug 2011 18:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drift fanfordford transitford transit drift vantransittransit drift vanvideoSat, 06 Aug 2011 18:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20010955/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/06/v8-ford-transit-connects-with-the-fine-art-of-drifting/20010955/article-detail.xml 20010955 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/drifting-transit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/drifting-transit.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[Recycled street-sign furniture is uncomfortably cool]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/29/recycled-street-sign-furniture-is-uncomfortably-cool/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/29/recycled-street-sign-furniture-is-uncomfortably-cool/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/29/recycled-street-sign-furniture-is-uncomfortably-cool/#commentsBoris Bally transit chairs
Boris Bally Transit Chairs - Click above for high-res image gallery

Industrial designer and artist Boris Bally has taken the urban decay aesthetic to a new level, crafting tables and chairs from worn-out street signs. Bally cranks out everything from high-backed dining-table chairs, to coffee tables, to armchairs.

Bally has been working with metal in one sense or another since he was just 13 years old. Rumor even has it that he cut his teeth in metalworking by building himself throwing stars and brass knuckles.

By using recycled materials, Bally isn't only doing the environment a good turn, he's ensuring uniqueness in each piece of furniture. Bally leaves the source material's patina alone-and makes sure it's visible. Such individualism comes at a price, naturally; chairs start at $1,100 and tables range from $900 to $4500. Have a closer look in the gallery below.

Recycled street-sign furniture is uncomfortably cool originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 May 2011 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ballyborisboris ballychairfurnitureroad signstabletransittransit chairsSun, 29 May 2011 18:06:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19952713/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/29/recycled-street-sign-furniture-is-uncomfortably-cool/19952713/article-detail.xml 19952713 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/bally-transit-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/bally-transit-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Ford powers into Birmingham with one-off Transit SuperSportVan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/13/ford-powers-into-birmingham-with-one-off-transit-supersportvan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/13/ford-powers-into-birmingham-with-one-off-transit-supersportvan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/13/ford-powers-into-birmingham-with-one-off-transit-supersportvan/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2011 Ford Transit SuperSportVan
2011 Ford Transit SuperSportVan - Click above for high-res image gallery

While the latest hot Mustang, Fiesta and Focus models may garner most of the attention from Ford and its performance divisions, back in the UK, the Blue Oval gives delivery boys and construction workers something to dream about with the occasional souped-up Transit. The last such SportVan it rolled out packed a 18-inch alloys and white stripes over red paint, but only a 140-horsepower turbodiesel engine. The model you see here, however, is another beast entirely.

This one-off Transit SuperSportVan packs a 200-horsepower, 3.2-liter turbodiesel five with a six-speed into the short-wheelbase 260 chassis. Upgraded aero package, rolling stock and classic blue stripes over white body are also part of the package, all to show the competition who's boss.

Unfortunately, just a concept, the Transit SSV was prepared for the Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC in Birmingham, England. It follows a long line of hot panel wagons from Ford UK that traces back to the 1971 GT40-based Transit Supervan, the Coworth V8-powered Supervan II of 1984, the '95 Supervan III that packed a 650hp Formula One engine and the Y2k Ford World Rally Transit complete with Martini racing stripes.

Follow the jump for the full press release, and scope out the photos in the gallery below.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Transit SuperSportVan


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford powers into Birmingham with one-off Transit SuperSportVan

Ford powers into Birmingham with one-off Transit SuperSportVan originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>birminghamcommercial vehicle showfordford transitford transit supersportvannectransittransit ssvtransit supersportvantransit vanWed, 13 Apr 2011 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19912002/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/13/ford-powers-into-birmingham-with-one-off-transit-supersportvan/19912002/article-detail.xml 19912002 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/transit-ssv-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/transit-ssv-1.jpg <![CDATA[Ford celebrates the Transit in UK with special edition SportVan. One, please.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/ford-celebrates-the-transit-in-uk-with-special-edition-sportvan/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/ford-celebrates-the-transit-in-uk-with-special-edition-sportvan/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/ford-celebrates-the-transit-in-uk-with-special-edition-sportvan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Transit SportVan - Click above for high-res image gallery

Push comes to shove, the Brits know modern delivery vans better than we do. (Hard to admit, we know.) What we use high-cube trucks, pickups and vans of varying sizes for, they do it all in panel vans. They drive the wheels off 'em, and the Ford Transit (not to be confused with its kid brother, the Transit Connect) is the king of 'em all. In fact, it has for the past 45 years been the best-selling van in the UK. And to celebrate, Ford UK is launching the special edition you see here.

This Ford Transit SportVan is based on the short-wheelbase 260 model and comes equipped with a 140-horsepower turbo-diesel, 18-inch graphite-finish alloys, twin exhaust pipes and a variety of other features, all wrapped up in red with white racing stripes. Only 100 examples will be made, and given the van's popularity on the Isles, we're sure they'll all sell out in a flash. In fact we know they will, since every previous SportVan edition has, including editions in blue with white stripes, grey with silver, black with silver, white with blue and blue with silver stripes.

Unfortunately this is another sport model we'll have to admire from the opposite shore, but driving back home in an SVT Raptor ought to help numb the pain. You know the drill: details in the press release after the jump, photos in the gallery below.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Transit SportVan


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford celebrates the Transit in UK with special edition SportVan. One, please.

Ford celebrates the Transit in UK with special edition SportVan. One, please. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford transitford transit sportvanford uksport vansportvantransittransit sport vanTransit SportVanThu, 14 Oct 2010 16:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19671989/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/14/ford-celebrates-the-transit-in-uk-with-special-edition-sportvan/19671989/article-detail.xml 19671989 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/web630-39341062004-a-for_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/web630-39341062004-a-for.jpg -1 2