Ford Europe has unveiled the next model year version of its Transit van. The list of new features mentions a new infotainment system, a new 8A/T and advanced driver aids like Delivery Assist, designed to help couriers by automating some of their daily routines. The pre-order books will open later this summer.
The main novelty inside is a 12-inch multimedia display, which now has an improved modem for faster Internet and real-time navigation data access. The digital instrument cluster is still 8 inches corner-to-corner.
The AWD version of the van now ships with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Brakes and wheel hubcaps were made lighter for efficiency and the default rim size has been changed to 16 inches. Ford believes that all these measures combined will enable carrying heavier cargo and shorten maintenance times.
As for the Delivery Assist feature mentioned above, it is targeting delivery workers who occasionally make up to 150 deliveries per day. Once the gearbox is in park, the system automatically switches off the engine, turns on emergency parking lights and locks all doors except for those specified by the driver as necessary loading/unloading. Reverting to normal mode is as simple as stepping on the brake pedal.
The production will begin in 2024 with the first deliveries scheduled for the next summer.