Ten Things You Should Know About The Ford Transit

The Ford Econoline was an icon, so much so that it is even referred to in songs by Neil Young, Nanci Griffith, and about 50 other musical artists, according to Google. Ford’s current full-size van, the Transit, hasn’t found its way into songs so much – admittedly, it is harder to rhyme with – but it is a much better van in all respects and probably the best way to haul a large quantity and/or cargo in with safety and security. Dick Smith Ford has collected a few things you should know about the Ford Transit.

Variety of Configurations

The Transit is available in two wheelbase lengths and three overall lengths. You also have a choice of three roof heights, from one that will fit in your garage to one you can possibly stand inside without stooping. The passenger van is available in two trim levels and can comfortably seat up to 15 people.

Power and Drivetrains

The standard engine in both Transit cargo and passenger vans is a 3.5-liter V6 with 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. For those who want additional performance, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost Turbocharged V6 produces 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Both are connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission, which will send power either to the rear wheels or all four with the optional all-wheel drive.

Another option that would be ideal if your van had an expected distance traveled in the day is the all-electric E-Transit. While the average travel for a commercial van is 74 miles, the E-Transit is approximately double that, with an operating range of 143 to 159, depending on roof height. With the E-Transit, you can charge overnight at its home base and never have to stop to refuel while operating significantly more efficiently. Nearly all drivetrain-related maintenance, such as oil and filter changes, will also be gone. The ProPower Onboard system also enables the E-Transit to be a mobile power source for power tools, lights, etc.

Co-Pilot360

The Transit includes as standard equipment this suite of advanced safety tech and driver assistance technologies, including:

• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane-keeping assist
• High-beam assist
• Rearview camera with trailer hitch assist.

Other available safety technologies include the blind-spot monitor and a 360-degree surround camera.

Wide-opening rear cargo doors:

The whole point of a cargo van is to load cargo. The Transit’s dual rear doors open a total of 253 degrees, allowing the loading of larger items.

Convenient Features

Ford knows drivers are likely to be in this van all day, so it provides plenty of standard convenience features, such as air conditioning, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, power-adjustable outboard mirrors, and remote keyless entry.

Swivel front seats

This option enables the driver and passenger to swivel the front seats to face the door. It is convenient for entering or exiting, provides quick access to the cargo area, and can facilitate short conversations a commercial driver may have with client personnel when entering or leaving a client location.

Transit Trail

Available in medium- and high-roof configurations, the Transit Trail model is set up to provide the basic vehicle requirements for overlanding, which combines extreme independent camping with off-roading. Standard features include the EcoBoost V6, AWD, a 3.5-inch lift, all-terrain tires, swivel seats, a roof vent, skid-plate-style front bumper, wheel-arch cladding, and more. From there, you can add everything to make the Transit your mobile, off-road home.

Customization

The Transit Cargo Van interior can be finished in just about any way you see fit with a wide variety of racks, tie-downs, shelving, and even camping solutions.

Transit can be a solution for almost endless transportation needs. If you have such a need, check out the Transit Vans in Dick Smith Ford’s inventory and consider the one that works just for you.