Ford has announced a major technology and specification upgrade for its Transit models that introduces new driver assistance and connectivity features, while also standardising key active safety technologies.
In a move to extend the fitment of active safety technologies already recognised with a Gold Award by independent vehicle safety authority Euro NCAP, Ford is fitting Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection autonomous emergency braking technology and Lane-Keeping System as standard on all Ford Transit Trend, Limited and Trail models from spring 2022 – meaning that more than 60% of Transits sold across Europe will now include these features.
Ford is also introducing a comprehensive programme of updates to provide customers with new features and capability across the Transit line-up. This includes introducing the connected SYNC 4 communication and information system with a 12-inch touchscreen, and adding more driver assistance systems such as Reverse Brake Assist and 360 Camera.
“We are sharpening our focus on the productivity of Transit customers, prioritising new technologies that make a real difference to uptime and cost of ownership,” said Hans Schep, general manager, Commercial Vehicles, Ford of Europe. “Transit has always been a technology leader, but this package of upgrades means more drivers than ever before can benefit from our advanced active safety and connectivity technologies, for greater comfort, productivity and peace of mind.”
More key features as standard
To further boost value for Transit operators, on the Trend series Ford is also standardising Quickclear heated windscreen, auto lighting and rain-sensing wipers, to help reduce driver workload.
On the Limited series, customers benefit from additional standard features including the SYNC 4 system with 12-inch touchscreen, high-mounted rear-view camera with LED downlighter and the keyless Ford Power starter button for easy starting during frequent-stop itineraries.
The new SYNC 4 communication and information system, which is controlled using a 12-inch touchscreen and offers twice the computing power of outgoing SYNC 3. The SYNC 4 system is designed to be wirelessly upgraded with Ford Power-Up software updates, with many updates requiring little to no action by customers as they install new software in the background. Updates that require reboots can be scheduled at convenient times, such as overnight.
Other features of the SYNC 4 include:
- Cloud-connected live traffic, weather and parking updates for the optional navigation
- Wireless connection to Android Auto and Apple Carplay with Applink
- Capability to have two mobile devices connected simultaneously
- Advanced Speech Recognition with Conversational Language Commands
- Digital Owner’s Manual with convenient search functionality
Operators subscribed to Ford Telematics can also deliver In-Cab Coaching via the SYNC 4 system to help support safe and efficient driving.
All Transits feature the FordPass Connect modem as standard, delivering always-on connectivity to support a range of features and services to enhance vehicle productivity. This includes the ability to leverage the FORDLiive connected uptime system, the free service available to operators of Ford commercial vehicles that enables them to maximise uptime using real-time vehicle health data.
Fleets can access these benefits using the complimentary Ford Telematics Essentials management tool, which allows managers to receive vehicle health alerts via a simple web-based dashboard.
Advanced technology features
Ford’s latest Transit already offers driver assistance technologies such as Active Park Assist, Cross Traffic Alert and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Traffic Sign Recognition. The new Transit range also offers Reverse Brake Assist, which is designed to help avoid collisions that can result from the limited rearward visibility often encountered by van drivers. The technology can automatically apply the brakes if it detects the driver is reversing into static obstacles such as bollards or high kerbs – or into the path of moving road users including pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles.
An optional extra is the new 360 Camera technology. The system uses cameras mounted around the vehicle to show drivers a composite birds-eye view of their surroundings, providing significantly enhanced visibility to help minimise the risk of damage while manoeuvring. Drivers can also select individual camera views to focus on a particular area.
The upgraded Ford Transit line-up will be available to order from Ford dealers and Transit Centres across Europe from Q4 this year.
