The launch of the new Transit Centres comes as the brand ramps up for a transformation of its commercial vehicle range, introducing four new models – Transit Courier, Transit Connect, Transit Custom and Transit – by 2014.
Each Transit Centre site employs a dedicated CV sales team as well as Ford-trained technicians and offers specialised workshop equipment, tools and training, and can manage all service, maintenance and warranty work.
The 100 Ford sites, which will be upgraded by the end of 2014, will also enable the launch of Ford’s Transit24 aftersales programme, announced in February this year, which will offer while-you-wait servicing to suit the customer, including regular late night appointments, and will respond within 20min to online service booking requests made through Epyx 1Link. Collection and delivery of vehicles can also be arranged and every vehicle leaves the dealership washed and ready for work.
Jon Wellsman, Ford customer service division director, said: ‘The launch of Ford’s new Transit Centre network will provide first class sales, service, maintenance and repair for all of our commercial vehicle operators across the UK. Ford has the largest and widest-spread dealer network in the country, offering a class-leading range of commercial vehicles and technologies and will continue to deliver the best care and assistance to customers.’
Hartwell Ford in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, was the first Transit Centre to launch in the UK. Kevin Godfrey, Hartwell Ford managing director, said: ‘Hartwell Ford always strive to deliver the best in customer service and aftersales support. The launch of our new Transit Centre is a brilliant opportunity to showcase the excellent new range of commercial vehicles from Ford and further improve the level of care for our customers.’
