In a significant development, a Ford of Europe light commercial vehicle will be sold in North America from mid-2009.
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While Daimler sells its large Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van line under different brand names in the US, and Japanese automakers like Toyota have in the past sold Asian-style ‘one-box’ (cab over engine) van models, just-auto understands this is the first time a conventional layout, small/medium European van line has crossed the Atlantic, at least in recent memory.
Speaking at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show where the Turkish-built Transit Connect was being shown for the first time in North America, Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of global product development, said: “Transit Connect is another example of how Ford is intensifying its efforts to leverage the best of its product line-up around the world.
“Designed, engineered and manufactured by Ford of Europe to beat tough, medium commercial vehicle standards, Transit Connect has been a sales success for [us] across the Atlantic and is an ideal option for owners of small businesses in the US,” he added.
Named ‘International Van of the Year 2003’ when first launched, the Transit Connect is manufactured at the Ford Otosan assembly plant in Kocaeli, Turkey and, Ford said, would offer American small businesses a fuel-efficient alternative to full-size commercial vans.
“This workhorse is like nothing available today in the American marketplace,” said Ford division general manager John Felice. “With its standard, two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and automatic transmission, the Transit Connect can make a real difference to customers here.”
Most models sold in Europe have diesel engines and manual transmission.
In a statement Ford highlighted the model’s high levels of durability through the use of thick, high-strength steel and a reinforced body shell with partial double skin sides and twin side cross members, class-leading cargo area functionality and versatility, responsive and fuel-efficient engine, high levels of security and safety, with a rigid body structure, side impact protection, dual front air bags and an array of security features, including a lockable bonnet (hood) and low cost of ownership, from lower fuel costs to powertrain durability.
Ford claimed an all-time record European commercial vehicle retail volume for 2007 across its 19 main European markets, including individual model volume records for the Transit Connect and the larger Transit medium commercial van range.
In the US, Ford claims to be the reigning commercial vehicle leader with a 40% share of the total commercial vehicle market and has been the full-size van leader with the E-Series for 29 consecutive years.
“John Fleming, president and CEO, Ford of Europe, said: “We’re even more proud of the fact that it is the popular Transit Connect which will be the first European Ford commercial to go on sale in North America. I have every confidence that customers there will appreciate its unique blend of qualities.”
Turkey builds over 1m units in 2007
