Blue Oval delivery van gets chassis tweaks, eight-speed auto and more advanced infotainment
The 2024 Ford Transit and 2024 Ford E-Transit commercial vans have received a major upgrade ahead of their Australian launch next year.
The tweaks to the world’s best-selling delivery van are described as comprehensive by Ford Pro, the Blue Oval’s commercial vehicle division, and include both tech and powertrain upgrades designed to broaden its appeal.
Set to enter production in 2024, with an Australian release likely to follow by the end of next year, the upgraded range introduces a new eight-speed automatic transmission option to enhance the front-wheel drive Transit’s efficiency and load-hauling capability, allowing it to carry and tow an extra 700kg and 1750kg respectively – equating to a revised 4250kg GVM and 6000kg GTM.
The increase in payload means the Transit can now carry a maximum of 2000kg (up from 1850kg) on the front axle.
A new brake system, meanwhile, slashes weight by up to 27kg and enables quicker services – with all four discs now capable of being changed in just two hours, according to Ford.
New 16-inch wheels are also standard on all models.
New advanced driver assist technologies have been introduced, including a new pre-collision assist and upgraded autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system. Lane keep alert and assist is also available, plus intelligent speed assist.
New options include a blind spot detection system, cross traffic alert and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go.
Auto parking tech and a 360-degree camera are also available, which Ford says could pay for itself with fewer repair bills and potentially lower insurance premiums.
As far as in-van tech is concerned, there’s yet more major gains with the Transit and E-Transit coming with the Ford SYNC4 infotainment system.
It’s operated via a large 12-inch touch-screen that combines with an 8.0-inch digital instrument panel.
Using a fast 5G modem connection, the Ford van gets connected navigation with live travel updates, plus new Delivery Assist Tech that’s claimed to automate repetitive security tasks for delivery drivers who make up to 150 drops a day, shaving up to 20 seconds per stop.
Shifting into park now stops the engine, activates the hazard warning lights and alarm, and locks any doors the driver does not use to exit the cab or access parcels.
Pressing the brake pedal then restarts the engine and deactivates the hazards.
A new Ford Pro Upfit Integration system now works with aftermarket equipment and allows the in-cab touch-screen to remotely monitor other functions in the van, like the refrigerated load area, for example.
For everything you auto know about EVs, listen to carsales’ Watts Under the Bonnet: the electric car podcast
Join the conversation at our Facebook page Or email us at [email protected]
Keyword: Makeover for 2024 Ford Transit van