Ford commercial vehicles have become the backbone of countless businesses worldwide. These versatile and reliable vehicles power enterprises of all sizes, from small local operations to large-scale corporations. With a wide range of options available, Ford has established itself as a leader in the commercial vehicle market, offering solutions that cater to diverse industry needs and operational requirements. Source

This comprehensive guide delves into the world of Ford commercial vehicles, exploring the extensive lineup and helping businesses make informed decisions. It covers key aspects such as choosing the right vehicle, integrated business solutions, financing options, and customization possibilities. By understanding the features and benefits of Ford’s commercial offerings, businesses can enhance their operations, improve efficiency, and drive growth in today’s competitive marketplace. See all Ford Vans

Ford’s Commercial Vehicle Lineup

Ford’s commercial vehicle lineup offers a diverse range of options to meet the needs of various businesses. From versatile vans to powerful pickup trucks, Ford has established itself as a leader in the commercial vehicle market.

Transit Series

The Transit series forms the backbone of Ford’s commercial vehicle lineup. It includes several models designed to cater to different business requirements: See all Ford Van Lease

1. Ford Transit 350: This large panel van is a favorite among tradesmen. It offers excellent handling, a solid gearbox, and impressive load space. The Transit 350 comes in various sizes, from the 5.5m L2H2 to the 6.7m L4H3. It’s available as a chassis cab, ready for modifications such as Luton, cage, tipper, or dropside configurations.
2. Ford Transit Custom: Rapidly becoming the most popular medium van lease in the UK, the Transit Custom offers six trim levels: Leader, Trend, Limited, Active, Sport, and Trail. It can be fitted out as a double cab for additional seating.
3. Ford Transit Connect: Designed to fill the gap between the Transit Custom and the smaller Transit Courier, this model has become a popular choice for small van leases.
4. Ford Transit Courier: The smallest van in the Transit range, the Courier is based on the Ford Fiesta car platform. It carries 600kg with a load length of 1.6m and offers a car-like driving experience.

Ranger Pickup Ford Commercial Vehicles

The Ford Range rLease  has long been one of the best pickup trucks in the market. It continues to uphold its reputation as a versatile and capable vehicle for businesses requiring both cargo capacity and passenger comfort. The Ranger is available in various configurations: See all Ford Vans For Sale

1. Ford Ranger Single Cab: Ideal for businesses needing maximum cargo space.
2. Ranger Double Cab: Offers a balance between passenger seating and cargo capacity.
3. All-New Ranger MS-RT: A performance-oriented variant for businesses seeking a more dynamic pickup.

The Ranger provides excellent utility, performance, and connectivity features, making it a popular choice for businesses across various industries. See all Ford Transit For Sale

E-Transit

The Ford E-Transit represents Ford’s commitment to sustainability in the commercial vehicle sector. This all-electric van offers zero driving emissions without compromising on the legendary Ford Transit toughness, capability, or versatility.

Key features of the E-Transit include:

1. Range Options:
   • Standard Range: Up to 166-196 miles, ideal for multi-drop routes and heavier cargo.
   • Extended Range: Up to 211-249 miles, suited for longer-range, lower-payload trips.
2. Charging Capabilities:
   • Standard Range: 10-80% DC fast charge in approximately 37 minutes.
   • Extended Range: 10-80% DC fast charge in approximately 28 minutes.
3. Payload Capacity:
   • Standard Range: Up to 1745 kg
   • Extended Range: Up to 1484 kg
4. Cargo Space: Up to 15.1 cubic meters of secure load space, with a load floor length of up to 4,256 mm in the L4 variant.
5. Pro Power Onboard: 2.3 kW power output available for powering tools and equipment on the job site.

The E-Transit is available in various configurations, including different lengths (L2, L3, L4) and heights (H2, H3), allowing businesses to choose the most suitable option for their specific needs.

Ford’s commercial vehicle lineup demonstrates the company’s commitment to providing versatile, reliable, and efficient solutions for businesses of all sizes. Whether it’s the traditional Transit series, the capable Ranger pickup, or the innovative E-Transit, Ford offers a comprehensive range of vehicles to power businesses forward.

Choosing the Right Ford Commercial Vehicle

Selecting the ideal Ford commercial vehicle for a business requires careful consideration of various factors. By understanding the specific needs of the company and evaluating the available options, businesses can make an informed decision that enhances their operations and productivity.

Assessing Your Business Needs

The first step in choosing the right Ford commercial vehicle is to assess the unique requirements of the business. This involves preparing a comprehensive list of needs, including:

1. Cargo space requirements
2. Payload capacity
3. Towing capabilities
4. Fuel efficiency
5. Specialized features (e.g., dump capabilities, tool storage)
6. Crew size (regular cab or crew cab)

By clearly defining these needs, businesses can narrow down their options and focus on the most suitable Ford commercial vehicles for their operations.

Payload and Cargo Capacity

One of the most critical factors to consider when selecting a Ford commercial vehicle is its payload and cargo capacity. These specifications determine the vehicle’s ability to handle the weight and volume of goods or equipment that need to be transported.

Key terms to understand include:

1. Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM): The maximum permitted mass of the vehicle, including driver, passengers, fluids, and cargo.
2. Kerb Mass: The unladen weight of the vehicle, excluding load/cargo weight and driver.
3. Gross Payload: The difference between the GVM and Kerb Mass, indicating the maximum weight of cargo the vehicle can carry.
4. Cargo Volume: The cubic dimension of the vehicle’s cargo area.

For businesses requiring substantial cargo space, the Ford Transit series offers excellent options. The Transit 350, for example, provides impressive load space and comes in various sizes, from the 5.5m L2H2 to the 6.7m L4H3. It’s available as a chassis cab, ready for modifications such as Luton, cage, tipper, or dropside configurations.

For those needing less capacity, the Transit Connect offers a balance between versatility and maneuverability. It provides impressive cargo space while being easier to maneuver and more fuel-efficient than its larger counterparts.

Fuel Efficiency and Performance

In today’s competitive market, fuel efficiency has become a crucial factor in choosing a commercial vehicle. Ford offers a range of fuel-efficient options across its commercial vehicle lineup.

The Transit Connect, for instance, uses less fuel compared to full-size vans while still offering impressive cargo space. For businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint and fuel costs even further, the all-electric E-Transit presents an excellent option.

The E-Transit offers zero driving emissions without compromising on the legendary Ford Transit toughness, capability, or versatility. It comes in two range options:

1. Standard Range: Up to 166-196 miles, ideal for multi-drop routes and heavier cargo.
2. Extended Range: Up to 211-249 miles, suited for longer-range, lower-payload trips.

When considering fuel efficiency, it’s essential to look at the vehicle’s MPG (miles per gallon) rating. Vans with higher MPG ratings are more economical, consuming less fuel to cover the same distance. This translates to cost savings and fewer refueling stops, which can significantly impact a business’s bottom line.

It’s worth noting that diesel vans generally offer greater fuel economy compared to their petrol counterparts. However, with the industry shift towards more stringent testing procedures like the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), businesses can now rely on more accurate and achievable fuel economy figures when making their decision.

By carefully considering these factors – business needs, payload and cargo capacity, and fuel efficiency and performance – businesses can select the Ford commercial vehicle that best suits their requirements, ultimately driving their operations forward efficiently and cost-effectively.

Ford Pro: Integrated Solutions for Businesses

Ford Pro offers a comprehensive suite of integrated solutions designed to enhance the efficiency and productivity of businesses utilizing Ford commercial vehicles. These solutions address various aspects of fleet management, from telematics to charging infrastructure and maintenance plans.

Telematics and Fleet Management

Ford Pro Telematics serves as a powerful tool for businesses to optimize their fleet operations. This manufacturer-grade system provides real-time insights and data-driven solutions, enabling fleet managers to make informed decisions and improve overall performance.

Key features of Ford Pro Telematics include:

1. Real-time vehicle monitoring
2. Performance tracking
3. Maintenance alerts
4. Fuel efficiency analysis
5. Driver behavior insights

The system’s easy-to-use interface allows fleet managers to assess their operations quickly and take necessary actions. It offers enhanced insights for electric vehicles, including charging status and remaining range displayed on live maps.

Ford Pro Telematics also integrates seamlessly with existing software systems through its open platform, providing secure access to clean, accurate vehicle data. This integration capability ensures that businesses can leverage Ford’s telematics solutions within their existing operational frameworks.

Charging Solutions for Electric Vehicles

As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, Ford Pro has developed comprehensive charging solutions to support businesses transitioning to electric fleets. These solutions are designed to ensure that electric vehicles are always charged and ready for work.

Ford Pro offers:

1. Installation of connected chargers at business sites
2. Tailored packages to meet specific depot requirements
3. Charging hardware, installation, and maintenance services
4. Depot management software for efficient charging coordination

These charging solutions are continuously evolving to keep pace with Ford’s expanding range of hybrid and electric vehicles, helping businesses maximize the benefits of an electric fleet.

Maintenance and Service Plans

Ford Pro’s maintenance and service plans are designed to keep vehicles in optimal condition, minimizing downtime and unexpected repair costs. These plans offer several benefits:

1. Regular servicing tailored to specific vehicle needs
2. Work carried out by Ford-trained technicians
3. Use of genuine Ford parts
4. Access to the latest computerized diagnostic equipment
5. Fixed pricing to protect against inflation
6. Flexible payment options, including monthly installments

The Ford Protect Service Plan and Wear & Tear Plan provide comprehensive coverage for various vehicle components. The Wear & Tear Plan covers the replacement of items such as brake pads, clutch plates, and shock absorbers when they are worn beyond acceptable limits.

Additional benefits of these plans include:

1. Extended Ford Assistance for the duration of the plan
2. Up to 7 days of vehicle hire if warranty work cannot be completed within 24 hours
3. Predictable maintenance costs for easier budgeting

By offering these integrated solutions, Ford Pro demonstrates its commitment to supporting businesses beyond just providing commercial vehicles. These comprehensive services aim to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and ultimately contribute to the success of businesses relying on Ford’s commercial vehicle lineup.

Financing and Leasing Options

Ford offers a range of financing and leasing options to help businesses acquire the commercial vehicles they need. These options are designed to provide flexibility and support for companies of all sizes.

Ford Credit

Ford Credit serves as the financial backbone for businesses looking to invest in Ford commercial vehicles. It provides tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each company. Ford Credit has a long-standing commitment to putting the welfare and success of businesses first, streamlining the commercial lending process to help companies acquire vehicles efficiently.

One of the key offerings from Ford Credit is Commercial Installment Financing. This flexible financing option allows businesses to build their fleet without having to reapply for each vehicle. It’s designed to work seamlessly with various business models, enabling companies to drive off in new Ford vehicles sooner.

Ford Credit adheres to the Finance and Leasing Association’s (FLA) Lending Code, which sets out key commitments and principles fundamental to providing excellent customer care. This commitment to fair treatment is embedded in Ford Credit’s company culture, ensuring that customers receive the highest level of service and support.

Business Contract Hire

Business Contract Hire is another popular option offered by Ford for commercial customers. This closed-end lease option provides numerous benefits without the residual risk typically associated with vehicle ownership.

Key features of Business Contract Hire include:

1. Clear pricing structure
2. Fixed monthly payments for easier budgeting
3. Option to include maintenance costs in the contract
4. Potential tax benefits for businesses

Ford provides a Lease Calculator tool to help businesses create personalized quotes based on their specific needs. This tool allows companies to choose from various promotions or customize their own quotes by selecting their preferred model.

It’s important to note that Business Contract Hire rates are exclusively for business users and typically exclude VAT. Vehicles must be returned in good condition and within the agreed mileage at the end of the contract, or additional charges may apply.

Fleet Programs Ford Commercial Vehicles

Ford offers comprehensive fleet programs designed to support businesses with multiple vehicles. These programs provide a range of benefits and services to help companies manage their fleets more effectively.

One such program is Ford Fleet Care, a parts and service consolidated billing program available to commercial fleets that choose to self-manage their vehicles. This program offers several advantages:

1. Consolidated invoicing: A single invoice replaces multiple repair orders and part invoices, reducing administrative time and costs.
2. Wide availability: The program is accessible through Ford and Lincoln dealerships and Quick Lane Tire and Auto Centers throughout the United States and Canada.
3. Streamlined management: It simplifies fleet management processes, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations.

Ford also recognizes the growing importance of electric and hybrid vehicles in commercial fleets. These vehicles offer significant benefits for both large and small fleets:

1. Lower running costs through fuel and maintenance savings
2. Potential government grants and tax incentives
3. Reduced environmental impact

Ford encourages businesses to consider electrifying their fleets, offering hybrid and electric options across their range of commercial vehicles.

By providing these diverse financing and leasing options, along with specialized fleet programs, Ford demonstrates its commitment to supporting businesses in acquiring and managing their commercial vehicles effectively. These solutions are designed to cater to various business needs, from small enterprises to large corporations, ensuring that companies can find the most suitable arrangement for their specific requirements.

Customization and Upfitting Ford Commercial Vehicles

Ford’s commercial vehicles offer a wide range of customization and upfitting options to meet the diverse needs of businesses across various industries. From factory-installed features to specialized modifications, Ford provides solutions that enhance productivity and efficiency.

Factory-Installed Options

Ford commercial vehicles come with a variety of factory-installed options designed to cater to specific business requirements. These options are seamlessly integrated into the vehicle during the manufacturing process, ensuring high-quality and reliable performance. To explore available factory-installed options, customers can use the online showroom’s ‘extras’ field when viewing a specific vehicle. This feature allows businesses to easily identify and select the options that best suit their operational needs.

One notable factory-installed option is the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS). This advanced safety feature uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in the driver’s blind spot. When a vehicle is detected, an orange light illuminates in the side door mirror, alerting the driver to potential hazards. For businesses that frequently tow trailers, the BLIS system includes Trailer Tow functionality, which extends the sensor range to cover the length of the trailer.

Qualified Vehicle Modifiers (QVM)

Ford’s Qualified Vehicle Modifiers (QVM) program ensures that businesses have access to high-quality, reliable vehicle modifications that meet Ford’s strict standards. The QVM program recognizes premium convertors across Europe who specialize in diverse conversions to meet customer requirements.

To qualify as a QVM participant, upfitters must undergo a comprehensive annual evaluation by Ford Motor Company. This evaluation covers various criteria, including:

1. Engineering expertise
2. Manufacturing processes
3. Quality control measures
4. Adherence to Ford QVM guidelines

QVM participants must demonstrate compliance with federal standards and follow all Ford guidelines for conversions. This rigorous process ensures that businesses can trust QVM upfitters to deliver modifications that maintain the vehicle’s integrity and performance.

Popular Upfits by Industry Ford Commercial Vehicles

Ford offers a range of popular upfits tailored to specific industries, ensuring that businesses have access to vehicles that meet their unique operational requirements. Some of the key industry segments and their corresponding upfits include:

1. Construction:
   • Tippers
   • Dropsides
   • Cherry Pickers and Cranes
   • Floats/Flatbeds (with or without cage)
   • Welfare Vehicles
   • Mobile Workshops
2. Delivery & Distribution:
   • Box/Luton Vans
   • Low Loaders
   • Horse Transport
   • Refrigerated Vehicles
   • Pharmaceutical Transport Vehicles
3. People Transportation:
   • Minibusses
   • School Transport Vehicles
4. Leisure Vehicles:
   • Motorhomes
   • Camper Vans
5. Blue Light Services:
   • Ambulances
   • Fire Service Vehicles
   • Police Service Vehicles
   • “Amber” Light Vehicles (e.g., mountain rescue)
6. Mobility:
   • Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

Ford’s commercial vehicle lineup offers a strong foundation for these upfits. For example, the E-Series Stripped Chassis provides high capability and performance for delivery applications, with various wheelbase and GVWR options available. The F-59 Commercial Stripped Chassis offers a heavy-duty steel frame that allows for easy upfitting, making it an ideal choice for businesses requiring a robust base for customization.

The Transit® Chassis Cab and Cutaway models provide a choice of responsive gas engines and up-to-date technologies, serving as versatile platforms for various upfits. For businesses requiring a more compact solution, the Transit Connect® van offers efficient and spacious urban transportation with a variety of available upfits for maximum versatility.

By offering these customization and upfitting options, Ford demonstrates its commitment to providing tailored solutions that help businesses enhance their productivity and efficiency across various industries.

Conclusion

Ford’s commercial vehicles have a significant impact on businesses across various industries, offering a wide range of options to meet diverse needs. From the versatile Transit series to the capable Ranger pickup and the innovative E-Transit, Ford provides solutions that boost productivity and efficiency. The company’s commitment to supporting businesses goes beyond just vehicles, with Ford Pro offering integrated solutions for fleet management, charging infrastructure, and maintenance plans.

To wrap up, Ford’s financing options and customization capabilities further enhance the appeal of their commercial vehicles. With flexible leasing arrangements and specialized fleet programs, businesses can easily acquire the vehicles they need. Moreover, the extensive customization options, including factory-installed features and specialized upfits, allow companies to tailor their vehicles to specific operational requirements. This comprehensive approach cements Ford’s position as a leader in the commercial vehicle market, empowering businesses to drive growth and success in today’s competitive landscape.

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