Features
20 Sep 18

New Ford Transit: first LCV featuring mild hybrid tech

Ford revealed the new 2-tonne Transit model at the IAA Commercial Vehicle show in Hannover, Germany. For Ford, a key player in the lcv market, the premiere of a new Transit is big news. The new model features advanced connectivity technology and will be the segment’s first diesel mild hybrid (mHEV)-LCV.

The new Transit introduces innovative diesel mHEV technology as an option for its front- and rear-wheel-drive versions, adding a consumption improvement of some 3 per cent based on WLTP analysis. Increased benefits of up to 8 per cent can be achieved in applications featuring a high proportion of stop-start driving, for example during urban delivery operations. A belt-driven integrated starter/generator replaces the standard alternator, enabling recovery and storage of energy during deceleration, and charging a 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack. Its energy provides torque assistance to the engine and runs the vehicle’s electrical ancillaries.

Enhanced diesel efficiency

Ford’s 2.0-litre diesel engine has been further optimized to help achieve fuel efficiency improvement. Further enhancements are achieved with the introduction of electric power assisted steering, extensive weight saving, the use of low-rolling-resistance tyres. It will also feature Efficient Drive Mode, which uses GPS positioning to give predictive advice on how to achieve the best fuel economy on the road ahead.

Alongside engines delivering 105, 130 and 170 PS there is a new 185 PS variant, delivering 415 Nm of torque. From spring 2020, in addition to the standard six-speed manual gearbox, the rear-wheel drive Transit will be available with a 10-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Scheduling, which assesses individual driving styles to optimise gearshift timings.

Telematics and Data Services

As part of the strategy to expand connectivity, Ford will offer FordPass Connect on-board modem technology for the new Transit, enabling fleet operators to improve vehicle utilisation and optimise running costs through solutions like the Ford Telematics and Ford Data Services products that are launching during 2019.

Further advanced technologies include Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system featuring an eight-inch touchscreen, and Ford’s MyKey system which allows fleet managers to program the key to limit driver’s speed and radio volume, and to permanently switch on active safety features.

As with the outgoing model, there will be a range of more than 450 core variants, including front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive drivelines, with a full range of bodystyles and chassis cabs and will be available in 2019.

Picture credit: Ford (2018)

Authored by: Stijn Blanckaert