The Ford Transit Custom is catching praise from Euro NCAP for its advanced driver assistance technologies. The iconic long-serving commercial model received a Gold award from the independent vehicle safety authority.
That’s quite the accolade, given that this now means Ford is the only marque with vans in its line up packing a gold rating for models in both the one-tonne and two-tonne segments. The smaller Transit Custom follows in the footsteps of the larger Transit model, which received the same status last year.
Incidentally, the Transit received the highest score of any vehicle tested, in part thanks to its elevated safety specification, with seat belt reminders made standard earlier in the year. From 2022 the Custom will also come with a digital rear-view mirror, offering twice the field of view compared to a normal mirror.
The vans are getting more versatile, too, with new LED-lit airline roof rack options on panel vans, and a double load floor option with underfloor drawers for short and long-wheelbase vans.
New engines are also on the way, with the Transit Custom and Transit Nugget models getting a new 150hp version of the 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine. Six-speed manual and six-speed automatic models will be available, with the option of a 48-volt mild hybrid system capable of reducing urban fuel consumption by almost 6% which, in turn, will help to boost profits at your business.
The Transit is as important a model as ever for Ford. The Transit Custom, in both van and passenger vehicles form, has been the UK’s best-selling vehicle this year, ahead of more traditional vehicles such as the BMW 3 Series or Ford Fiesta.
More than 117,014 units were registered in the first three-quarters of this year, many being leased to savvy businesses keen to lock in fixed monthly costs with the backup of a fresh manufacturer-backed warranty. The model’s popularity is no wonder, given its reputation, what it offers, how it performs and indeed, its highly competitive pricing.
Transit Custom leasing deals start from around £200 a month excluding VAT, with most Customs coming comfortably under £300 per month. Availability is good, too, with most predicted for delivery in January. Transit variety, availability and pricing have most rivals licked which, as the sales numbers indicate, make it a choice that sees many buyers not thinking twice.
Hans Schep, general manager, Commercial Vehicles, Ford of Europe said:
“Driver safety is a top priority for us and for our customers, so we design our vans to help every business protect their staff and help prevent accidents on the road,”
“I’m delighted to see Euro NCAP’s recognition of Ford’s leadership in van safety as we take every opportunity to add value to our customers’ businesses.”
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