文章基本信息

标题：Ford Transit Connect attacks small van sector - new vehicle news - Brief Article - Product Announcement
期刊名称：Company Van
印刷版ISSN：0955-5196
出版年度：2002
卷号：March 2002
出版社：D M G Business Media Ltd.

Ford Transit Connect attacks small van sector - new vehicle news - Brief Article - Product Announcement

"This all-new, purpose-designed van demonstrates how Ford of Europe's product-led transformation extends beyond cars and into the fast-growing small van market," said Paul Morel, Ford's European Director of Commercial Vehicles. "We have given our new vehicle the Transit name because we believe our new small van, like the Transit itself, is synonymous with dependability and low cost of ownership. These qualities, combined with new standards of load box functionality and security, will help Ford to `Connect' to business users requiring something smaller than the full-size Transit, while retaining the unique owner benefits that `Transitness' brings."

The Transit Connect is not a car-derived van. It is built on a unique, dedicated commercial vehicle platform, although it will form the basis for a forthcoming MPV.

The Transit Connect range includes a high-roof, long wheelbase derivative, specifically designed for the sub-one tonne sector of the European medium commercial vehicle market, and a shorter wheelbase derivative which will compete in the light commercial vehicle market. A variety of petrol and diesel engines will power Transit Connect. Full range details and specifications will be released closer to launch.

Ford claims the Connect will lead the class in load-box flexibility and will offer a wide choice of bulkhead and sliding side-load door configurations. The short wheel base derivative of Transit Connect will be the first one in its class to carry two Euro pallets, which can be loaded through the rear doors or lift-gate. An optimised tumblehome (side body curvature) allows for efficient load-box utilisation, with the minimum amount of space between the load and the side body panels. To maximise flexibility, a fold-flat passenger seat will provide a completely flat floor right up to the footwell for extended load length and a flexible load restraint system will allow customers to install their own racking or shelving without drilling holes in the vehicle.