Ford is giving its Transit and E‑Transit commercial vehicles a major upgrade in digital capability for the 2024 model year.
On sale later this month, the heavily revised models will further drive fleet performance and productivity through new digital features and enhanced technology.
The updates significantly boost the standard connectivity features with the introduction of Ford’s latest 5G modem while the launch of Ford Power-Up wireless updates means fleets can gain over-the-air vehicle productivity improvements without a trip to the dealer.
New Delivery Assist technology also debuts, boosting productivity for delivery drivers by automating repetitive security tasks. When the driver shifts into Park, this stops the engine, activates the hazard warning lights and alarm, and locks any doors the driver does not use to exit the cab or access parcels.
Once the driver is back onboard, one press of the brake pedal restarts the engine and deactivates the hazard lights. It’s available on long-wheelbase panel van models featuring the automatic gearbox and could save up to 20 seconds from each delivery, according to Ford.
Another new arrival is Ford’s Upfit Integration System, which lets drivers control aftermarket-installed equipment via digital buttons on the standard in-cab touchscreen and also links to Ford Pro software packages for remote monitoring. Examples include tracking temperature in refrigerated vehicles carrying pharmaceuticals or food and drink where an uninterrupted cold chain is essential.
The 2024 Transit/E-Transit also gain Ford’s latest Sync 4 communication and information system including a 12-inch centrally mounted touchscreen and 8-inch digital instrument cluster, plus Connected Navigation for real-time traffic information.
New safety tech as standard includes pre-collision assist with autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping alert & aid, and intelligent speed assist. The Transit can also be specified with safety packs that include a blind spot information system with cross traffic alert, intelligent adaptive cruise control with lane centring and stop & go, and auto park assist with a 360-degree camera.
Powertrain changes see the arrival of a new eight-speed automatic transmission option for front-wheel drive Transits, which increase vehicle weights up to 4,250kg GVM and 6,000kg GTM – up by 700kg and 1,750kg respectively.
New wheel hub and brake systems reduce weight by up to 27kg and cut downtime when the brakes are being changed. All 2024 models now come with 16-inch wheels as standard.
Finally, front-wheel drive models can now be specified with a heavy-duty gross axle weight rating pack, raising the front axle maximum weight from 1,850kg to 2,000kg.
Hans Schep, Ford Pro Europe general manager, said: “We work hand-in-hand with our customers to understand the challenges they face and create new solutions together. These new innovations improve Transit’s digital features, hardware and supporting Ford Pro ecosystem to deliver a new level of productivity for our customers.”
