Ford of Europe has introduced the 2024 Transit and E‑Transit, which have been given a tech-focused makeover.
The updates are most noticeable inside as Ford is outfitting the vans with an 8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch SYNC 4 infotainment system. The latter is a huge improvement over the previously standard 4.2-inch non-touch display.
The upgrades don’t end there as the vans have been equipped with an improved 5G modem, which “provides superfast connectivity to Transit’s smart technologies with Ford Power-Up wireless updates.” The vans are also taking a cue from the 2023 F-Series Super Duty and being outfitted with Ford Pro’s Upfit Integration System. This allows for more extensive integration by upfitters as well as digital buttons for accessories.
More: Ford Reveals Boxy New Electric E-Transit Courier For Europe
Speaking of tech, there’s a new Delivery Assist function that can help automate tasks for delivery drivers who often make up to 150 drops per day. When the van is shifted into park, such as when making a delivery, the engine is automatically turned off while the hazard lights are activated. The system also automatically locks any doors the driver does not need to exit the van or access parcels. After dropping off a package, delivery drivers can simply tap the brake pedal to restart the engine and turn off the hazard lights.
While the system sounds pretty straight forward, Ford says it can save drivers 20 seconds with each delivery. Doing the math, a driver who delivers 150 packages would save 50 minutes. That’s a significant savings, which could be used to deliver additional packages and boost productivity even further.
Lastly on the tech front, there’s a handful of standard driver assistance systems including Pre-Collision Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping Alert & Aid, and Intelligent Speed Assist. If that’s not enough, optional systems include Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering and Stop & Go, a Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert, and Auto Park Assist with a 360-degree camera.
On the mechanical side, there’s a new eight-speed automatic transmission on front-wheel drive Transits. It “maximizes capability with up to 4,250 kg (9,370 lbs) GVM and 6,000 kg GTM (13,228 lbs) – an increase of 700 kg (1,543 lbs) and 1,750 kg (3,858 lbs) respectively.”
Elsewhere, there are new 16-inch wheels as well as lightweight wheel hub and brake systems that save up to 27 kg (60 lbs). The brakes are also easier to replace as Ford said the servicing time has been reduced by up to two hours when replacing all four discs.
Last but not least, there’s a new heavy-duty Gross Axle Weight Rating pack, which raises the front axle maximum weight to 2,000 kg (4,409 lbs) from 1,850 kg (4,079 lbs) for front-wheel drive models.
Orders open later this month and deliveries are slated to begin next summer.
