Transit Connect Guide

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Ford Transit Connect Electric: California $15K State Incentive The state of California will add another section to its Hybrid Incentive Voucher Program (HVIP) and will aide zero emissions, light duty commercial vehicles, which GVWR between 5,001-8,500 lbs, which includes the Ford Transit Connect Electric. Coming this November, vouchers for the first fleet order will total $15,000 and the second and thereafter totaling $12,000 for financial year 2010-2011. In the 2011-2012 financial year, which begins in February 2012, the voucher will equal: • $10,000 per vehicle for the first 30 vouchers (the first 3 vehicles are eligible for an additional $2,000) • $8,000 per voucher for 31-65 vouchers • $6,000 per voucher for 66 to 100 vouchers The program is available for any fleet, whether public or government that register their Transit Connect in the state of California. The above incentive is in addition to the $7,500 Federal EV Credit.

New England Cab Company Improves Global Footprint by Adding 35 CNG-Powered Ford Transit Connect Taxis Metro Taxi of West Haven, Conn. adds 35 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered Ford Transit Connect Taxis to its cab fleet West Haven joins growing list of cities to offer CNG-powered Transit Connect Taxis that also includes Los Angeles, Chicago, St. Louis and Las Vegas CNG burns cleaner than gasoline and can result in 30 percent less greenhouse gas emissions FordTransitConnectForum.com - The global footprint of a New England cab company is a few sizes smaller after it put 35 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered Ford Transit Connect Taxis into service. Metro Taxi of West Haven, Conn. added 35 Ford Transit Connect Taxis to its fleet as part of its efforts to reduce reliance on gasoline and greenhouse gas emissions. The cabs are the first CNG-powered Transit Connect Taxis in New England. The addition of the Transit Connect Taxis to the Metro Taxi fleet is being celebrated as part of an event in West Haven today coinciding with the opening of a Clean Energy-owned CNG fueling station in the city. A few weeks ago the first CNG Transit Connect Taxis began servicing West Haven, which is near Hartford and about 80 miles northeast of New York City. Bill Scalzi, president of Metro Taxi, said there is already a waiting list of drivers who want Transit Connect Taxis. “The CNG Transit Connect Taxis have been a tremendous hit all around,” said Scalzi, who was named 2010 Taxicab Operator of the Year by the Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association. “The drivers love the fuel savings that come with CNG along with the overall roominess and the reliability of the Transit Connect taxis,” said Scalzi. “Passengers also love the fact that the new taxis are much easier to get in and out of than traditional car-styled taxis. We are really, really pleased with this new venture of ours.” Gerry Koss, marketing manager, Ford Fleet, said Scalzi’s comments are echoed around the country. CNG-powered Transit Connect Taxis are already servicing places such as Chicago, Las Vegas, St. Louis and California’s Orange County. The addition of CNG Transit Connect Taxis to Metro Taxi’s fleet comes less than a month after California Yellow Cab put California’s first CNG Transit Connect Taxis into service. “I’ve talked to Transit Connect Taxi drivers in places like Orange County and the response to these greener, cleaner vehicles has been phenomenal,” said Koss. “From a driving standpoint, taxi drivers tell me they love the maneuverability and comfort. Passengers are saying they can’t believe how much room and cargo space there is.” The standard Ford Transit Connect – 2010 North American Truck of the Year – features a 2.0-liter I-4 engine that gets 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, an estimated 30 percent improvement in fuel economy compared with traditional taxis. Transit Connect Taxi is available with engine preparation packages for conversion to liquefied propane gas (LPG) or CNG. CNG is used in traditional gasoline internal combustion engines that have been modified to operate on CNG. Dallas-based BAF Technologies, a Clean Energy-owned company, has been certified by Ford as a Quality Vehicle Modifier to convert standard Transit Connect Taxis into CNG-powered cabs. The fuel cost savings and environmental impact of CNG-powered cars and trucks are two benefits of alternative fuel-powered taxis like the Transit Connect Taxi. The estimated fuel economy of a CNG-powered Transit Connect Taxi is the same as the standard gasoline version. However, operating costs are lower because the cost of a gasoline gallon equivalent of CNG is much less than a gallon of gasoline. The current national average cost per gasoline gallon equivalent is about $2. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the price per gallon of gasoline has ranged from just over $1 a gallon in early 2002 to nearly $4 a gallon this year. During the same period, however, CNG generally has stayed between $1 and $2 per gasoline gallon equivalent, peaking at a high of $2.34 in July 2008. Clean Energy, which owns and operates more than 250 CNG stations, said the Ford Transit Connect Taxi fits in with its own mission. “We are bringing the many benefits of natural gas fuel for transportation to West Haven and the state of Connecticut,” said Andrew J. Littlefair, president and CEO, Clean Energy. “Ford’s CNG Transit Connect Taxis will help measurably in this goal by lowering petroleum use and reducing greenhouse gas emissions up to 30 percent compared to traditional gas vehicles.” CNG is a nontoxic, extremely clean-burning fuel and significantly reduces CO, CO2 and NOx compared with gasoline. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, use of CNG can result in 30 percent less greenhouse gas emissions. Use is increasing, too. Clean Energy alone, for example, has plans for another 100 stations. Ford has invested billions in researching and developing new fuel-efficient engines, transmissions and electrified vehicles, even during the depths of the economic downturn when competitors dialed back product spending. Today Ford has 12 vehicles with best-in-class fuel economy and four models with at least 40 mpg – claims no other full-line automaker can match.

A Taxi Trend: Ford Transit Connect Compressed Natural Gas Taxis Heading to Los Angeles and Chicago • Two taxicab companies in Los Angeles area order nearly 120 Ford Transit Connect Taxis to operate on compressed natural gas (CNG) • Twelve CNG-powered Transit Connect Taxis hit the streets of Chicago today • New approvals giving taxicab company owners even more reason to consider the Ford Transit Connect Taxi Ford Transit Connect Forum – The next time you hail a taxi, you could be jumping in to one that runs on compressed natural gas (CNG). Chicago and Los Angeles are now the two latest cities to roll out Ford Transit Connect Taxis fueled by CNG. In Chicago today, Taxi Medallion Management will put 12 Ford Transit Connect Taxis powered by compressed natural gas (CNG) into service as part of an event celebrating the increased presence of CNG in Chicago. A CNG Ford Transit Connect Taxi will participate in the opening of a new Clean Energy CNG filling station and natural gas advocate T. Boone Pickens will speak at the event after arriving in a CNG Transit Connect Taxi. Ford also announced two Los Angeles-area cab companies have ordered nearly 120 Ford Transit Connect CNG Taxis, adding the nation’s second-largest city to the growing list of large urban areas quickly adopting the versatile vehicle. “The Transit Connect Taxi was developed using market research we conducted with the taxi industry to better understand what customers wanted in a future vehicle,” said Gerald Koss, marketing manager, Ford Fleet Operations. “The more conversations we had, the more interest we saw in a taxi with the flexibility of offering a compressed natural gas version.” Los Angeles and Chicago aren’t the only cities jumping on the CNG taxi bandwagon. In Connecticut, Metro Taxi of West Haven and Yellow Cab Company of Hartford have ordered a total of 70 Transit Connect Taxis that will be powered by CNG and in service by the end of summer. Other cities where CNG Transit Connect Taxis have been ordered include Las Vegas and St. Louis. Philadelphia is expected to join the list after city officials there recently approved it for use as well, said Koss. California, here it comes Yellow Cab of Anaheim and Cabco Yellow Inc. of Orange County have ordered a combined 119 CNG-powered Transit Connect Taxis. The first 50 will be delivered within the next two months. The rest are scheduled to be delivered by the end of 2011. The Ford dealership, South Bay Ford in Los Angeles, will deliver the taxi units to the cab companies. Larry Gach, sales manager, Ford Commercial Truck Sales and Marketing, said he expects orders in California to increase after the California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved the use of Transit Connect Taxis modified by BAF Technologies to run on CNG. BAF Technologies has been certified by Ford as a Quality Vehicle Modifier to convert standard Transit Connect Taxis into CNG-powered cabs. CARB is part of the California Environmental Protection Agency, an organization that reports to the governor’s office and is designed to promote and protect public health, welfare and ecological resources through reduction of air pollutants. To receive CARB certification, a vehicle must demonstrate that its exhaust and evaporative emission control systems are durable and comply with the emission standards for the vehicle’s useful life. Blowing into the Windy City Taxi Medallion Management bought the 12 CNG Transit Connect Taxis it is putting into service today earlier this year. The purchase is part of the company’s goal of reducing emissions by 25 percent, said Michael Levine, CEO of Taxi Medallion Management. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, CNG is less expensive and burns cleaner than gasoline, resulting in 30 to 40 percent less greenhouse gas emissions. “We are adding CNG-powered vehicles to our fleet in order to reduce the effective cost of fuel for our drivers, and to introduce cleaner vehicles for the environment,” said Levine. Ford offers engine prep packages that allow conversions to CNG and liquefied propane gas (LPG). Both CNG and LPG lower taxi fleets’ operating costs and are better for the environment. CNG Transit Connect Taxis in other regions Orders of CNG Transit Connect Taxis are expected to come from other areas of the country as well, including Philadelphia, the fifth-largest metropolitan area in the United States. City officials there approved the CNG Transit Connect Taxi for use on its streets. The city regulates the types of vehicles that can be used as taxis. To be approved, a vehicle must meet basic size requirements for headroom, legroom and cargo space. “The Ford CNG Transit Connect Taxi has many great features of interest to the riding public,” said James Ney, director, Taxicab & Limousine Division, Philadelphia Parking Authority. “Its abbreviated footprint makes it perfect for use on our narrow, congested streets here in Philadelphia.” The amount of space in the Transit Connect Taxi is winning over taxicab company owners such as Fred Sweets, of St. Louis American Cab. He recently ordered his first Transit Connect Taxi that will be modified to run on CNG. Sweets said he was immediately intrigued by the shape and size of the Transit Connect when he first saw it being driven as a delivery van. But before buying one, Sweets said he conducted his own research by asking users of the standard Transit Connect, such as flower delivery businesses, about their experiences with the small commercial van. “I asked them how they liked it, what their mileage was and how it was holding up,” said Sweets. “I got nothing but praise for the vehicle. I knew then that I had to add it to our fleet.”

Review: 2011 Ford Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon <br/><br/> AutoBlog - John Neff <br/><br/> <iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7xnMX8Epuoc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> <br/><br/> Still, if not an alternative to the increasingly homogeneous minivan market, what's the purpose of the Transit Connect XLT? Our guess is that, unlike the commercial Transit Connect van that may be bought a dozen or even hundreds at a time by mid- to large-sized corporations, the Transit Connect XLT wagon is for the very small business owner whose daily driver might double as his delivery vehicle. It's still better at hauling cargo than kids, but unlike its commercial brother, the XLT model can be driven home and parked in the driveway, perhaps taken to Costco on the weekends and maybe used to help a friend move. <br/><br/> The Transit Connect XLT is a gas price-conscious generation's new small pickup, gifted courtesy of the Europeans who know a thing or two about getting work done amidst high gas prices and narrow roads. And while it will never be the favorite of moms everywhere like the Grand Caravan, Sienna and Odyssey, the Ford Transit Connect XLT should be near the top of any entrepreneur's shopping list. Read the review here

Transit Connect Electric Makes Geneva Debut Ford Transit Connect Forum – Ford further demonstrates its commitment to a global vehicle electrification strategy by showcasing a development version of its zero-emission Transit Connect Electric at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. Based on a Transit Connect Kombi the show car is one of several electric Ford vehicles currently on test in the UK and features the same battery electric power train as the Transit Connect Electric Van, which is set to go on sale in Europe later this year. “By providing a variety of electrified vehicles, we are making it easier for our customers to embrace this fuel-saving technology,” said Bill Ford, executive chairman, Ford Motor Company. “This strategy is true to our heritage of making innovative technology available to as many people as possible and to our vision of developing great products, building a strong business and contributing to a better world.” Zero emissions The Transit Connect Electric Van is a pure electric-powered version of the award-winning, long-wheelbase Transit Connect light commercial vehicle. Developed in conjunction with Ford's US-based electric vehicles partner Azure Dynamics, it has a proprietary Force Drive™ battery electric drive train powered by an advanced battery pack designed by Johnson Controls-Saft. With 28kWh of power to call on, Transit Connect Electric has a top speed of 75mph (120km/h) and a range of up to 130km/80 miles. Its lithium-ion battery pack is charged via a standard power outlet – an onboard converter then charges the battery pack. Fully charging the batteries using standard European 220/240-volt outlets takes up to 10 hours. Practical and affordable Transit Connect Electric Van will offer European operators the opportunity to eliminate fuel bills in their small vans and help to lower overall running costs. Ford’s Transit Connect commercial platform is an ideal choice for battery electric power thanks to its unique combination of car-like driving dynamics, generous cargo capacity, easy accessibility and low purchase and operation costs. With a cargo volume 3.8 m3 and a payload of 410kg, Transit Connect Electric Van will particularly appeal to operators who travel predictable, short-range routes with frequent stop and go driving. Tried and tested The Transit Connect Electric Van goes on sale in European markets later this year following its successful launch in North America in December 2010. 'Glider' units - complete vehicles except for the powertrain - will be shipped from the Ford Otosan manufacturing facility in Kocaeli, Turkey, directly to an Azure-contracted manufacturing location in Europe for final assembly. The completed Transit Connect Electric Van will then be sold by Azure Dynamics through a specially-created network of dealerships. The European Transit Connect Electric will be badged with both the Ford Blue Oval and Azure’s Force Drive logo like its North American sibling. Further details and prices for the Transit Connect Electric which will be available in right- and left-hand drive configuration will be released closer to launch. “Transit Connect Electric exemplifies how we are leveraging our relationships as well as our hybrid and advanced powertrain programs to bring energy-efficient technologies from the laboratory to the street,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “Not only is this an ideal vehicle for eco-conscious fleet operators, it is an important part of Ford’s future.” Ford has committed to introduce five full-electric and hybrid models in Europe by 2013 as part of its global electrification strategy. In addition to Transit Connect Electric, the company will launch the next-generation Ford Focus Electric in 2012, followed by hybrid and plug-in hybrid derivatives of the all-new C-MAX and another hybrid-electric model in 2013. Transit Connect Electric Technical data Body * 'Glider' assembly at Ford Otosan plant in Kocaeli, Turkey * Final assembly by Azure Dynamics Corporation Propulsion architecture * Siemens AC induction motor, Azure Dynamics inverter * Borg-Warner transaxle, Johnson Controls-Saft battery pack * System voltage range 260V – 380V Electric drive system * Motor Siemens model 135, 3-phase AC induction motor, 300V nominal, liquid-cooled * Torque 158 Nm (continuous) / 235 Nm (peak) * Transmission Borg-Warner 31-03, single-speed * Gear ratio 8.28:1 * IEC 62196 type 1 Battery * Johnson Controls-Saft lithium-ion pack * Capacity 28 kWh, 16 modules / (192 cells) * Voltage range 215V – 390V / charger – 3.3 kW Weights and capacities * Maximum payload 410 kg * Curb weight 1791 kg (est.) * Cargo volume 3.8 m3 Performance * Driving range up to 130 km (80 miles) per full charge * Charge duration up to 10 hours for full cycle using 230 V * Top speed 120 km/h (75 mph)@ 0 percent grade * Acceleration 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph) in 12 seconds (based on kerb weight) * 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph)in 15 seconds (based on gross vehicle weight rating)

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Ford Turkish Unit Seeking New York City Taxi Contract to Boost U.S. Sales Ford Transit Connect Forum - Ford Otomotiv Sanayi AS, the Turkish venture of Ford Motor Co. that’s shortlisted for a contract to supply New York City taxis, aims to increase sales to the U.S. by 50 percent in 2011, Chief Executive Officer Nuri Otay said. Ford Otosan, as the company is known, is already selling its Transit Connect van for use as taxis and service vehicles in U.S. cities including Los Angeles, Washington, Boston and Chicago, Otay said yesterday in an interview in Istanbul. Demand for the model, built at a plant in Kocaeli, will increase in 2011, boosting U.S. sales, he said. Turkey, whose economy grew 8.9 percent annually in the first three quarters, is a manufacturing base for automakers including Ford, Fiat SpA and Toyota Motor Corp. The country exports 75 percent of the cars, vans, buses and trucks it makes. Output may rise 32 percent this year to 1.08 million vehicles, including a 24 percent jump to 596,000 cars, according to the Istanbul-based Automotive Manufacturers Association of Turkey. “Next year, wholesale and retail taxi-van sales to the U.S. market will increase as we see demand from taxi companies as well as from post offices for the Transit Connect,” raising sales of the model to 30,000, Otay said. “There are several taxi companies in each U.S. city, and they constantly review their procurement plans.” READ MORE AT BLOOMBERG

Ford's XLT Transit Connect Wagon Brings Added Comfort And Convenience Features * Ford Transit Connect – 2010 North American Truck of the Year – is expanding its lineup with the addition of a Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon offering * Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon offers seating for five passengers with enhanced interior appointments and visibility from integrated blind-spot mirrors, a rear view camera and flip-open rear quarter windows Ford Transit Connect Forum – A new personal-use package for the 2011 Ford Transit Connect debuted today at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show. The XLT Premium Wagon offers more comfort and visibility for second-row passengers, something customers have been asking for since the small, fuel-efficient van went on sale in the United States in 2009. “Since Transit Connect arrived here as the ‘ultimate tool’ for small business proprietors, we’ve heard requests from potential personal-use customers,” said Rob Stevens, chief nameplate engineer for Commercial Vehicles. “Buyers looking for a taller wagon with seating for five passengers and generous cargo space have shown significant interest in Transit Connect.” XLT Premium Wagon offers enhanced second-row passenger comfort, including cargo space surface trim, wheelhouse covers and flip-open rear quarter windows for draft-free ventilation. This personal-use package gives owners and drivers additional confidence with blind-spot sideview mirrors, rear view camera, rear cargo door windows and privacy glass. Transit Connect was named North American Truck of the Year in January 2010, selected by journalist jurors for its unique combination of car-like ride, 135 cubic feet of cargo space, 1,600-pound payload capacity and unmatched fuel efficiency – up to an EPA-rated 26 mpg highway. All Transit Connect models – including XLT Premium Wagon – are assembled at the Ford Otosan joint-venture production facility in Kocaeli, Turkey, and are available at North American Ford dealerships.

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2012 Ford Transit Connect BEV <br/> <br/> <object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69hIR7yVjm8?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param'>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69hIR7yVjm8?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69hIR7yVjm8?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object> <br/> <br/> Ford Transit Connect Forum - The Ford Transit Connect Electric, a pure electric-powered version of the 2010 North American Truck of Year has finally begun to go into production, with a few examples already being sampled today. <br/> <br/> Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm drove one of the few Transit Connect Electric trucks to have rolled off of the assembly line, celebrating the influx of jobs and suppliers from the state of Michigan being involved in the production of the vehicle. Ford has teamed up with Azure Dynamics, Johnson Controls and AM General in order to produce the Transit Connect Electric due to its unique components. <br/> <br/> Once the partners were selected, Ford and its partner companies tapped into all available resources to get the vehicles done as quickly as possible, while keeping as much of the development and as many of the jobs as possible in Michigan. For example, the government provided funding through the federal Department of Energy and the Michigan Economic Development Council to support development and production of the new battery electric vehicle. As a result, program partners have all added a significant number of jobs to their employee base for development and production of the vehicle. <br/> <br/> READ MORE HERE

Best Buy Geek Squad fleet adds Ford vans * The Ford Transit Connect and Ford E-Series vans are joining Geek Squad as part of Best Buy’s ongoing efforts to build a more fuel-efficient fleet * 290 Ford Transit Connect compact utility vans will be used instead of larger cargo vans by Geek Squad technicians who service home appliances * Best Buy also is taking delivery of 738 Ford E-Series vans, which will be used by Geek Squad technicians who install and service home theater equipment; the E-Series vans have smaller displacement engines, which provide better fuel economy than their current vans with larger engines Ford Transit Connect Forum - The Ford Transit Connect and Ford E-Series van are joining Geek Squad as part of Best Buy’s continuing efforts to build a more fuel-efficient fleet and streamlined transportation system. Best Buy® – an international leader in consumer electronics and entertainment – will soon take delivery of 290 Ford Transit Connect compact utility vans and 738 Ford E-Series vans. The Transit Connects will be used instead of larger cargo vans by Geek Squad technicians who deliver, install and service home appliances. The E-Series vans will be used by those who install and service home theater equipment. “We appreciate Best Buy’s business and confidence in our commercial van lineup,” said Len Deluca, director, Ford Commercial Truck Sales and Marketing. “The combination of Transit Connect and E-Series provides a wide range of utilization that will help Best Buy meet its customers’ needs.” Ford Transit Connect provides utility and fuel efficiency According to Jason Pucely, senior manager, Best Buy Fleet Operations, the selection of the Ford Transit Connect was dictated in many ways by the company’s new operating model, which drives to deliver superior client service through more efficient scheduling, inventory management and transportation systems. “We’re streamlining all of our activities,” he explained. “We’ve developed a more effective routing system, and we’re more efficient with the tools and parts we carry when we do our work. That has enabled us to put the same technician doing the same work in a smaller, lighter vehicle.” Pucely says the Ford Transit Connect offers the functionality Geek Squad technicians require to get their work done, while not compromising on some of the space requirements that a full-size cargo van offers. In addition to the cost and environmental benefits, Pucely foresees other advantages. “Our technicians typically carry diagnostic equipment, motors and other electronic parts, so having the side access panels will make it easier for them to get to the equipment they need,” he said. The unique appearance of the Ford Transit Connect promises to be an added bonus, says Pucely. “A distinctive vehicle has been part of the history of Geek Squad in the marketplace,” he said. “We value our fleet as a tool to enhance our brand messaging, and the Transit Connect will certainly help in that effort.” All of the vehicles will carry the familiar Geek Squad branding – black-and-white with the orange-and-black Geek Squad logo. Ford E-Series vans provide functionality and improved fuel efficiency for larger jobs While Ford Transit Connect provides an ideal solution for Geek Squad technicians who service home appliances, a full-size cargo van is essential for those who install and service home theater equipment. With fuel efficiency a priority, Best Buy opted to purchase 738 Ford E-Series vans with smaller – 4.6-liter – displacement V8 engines that provide better fuel economy than its current vans with larger engines. “Home theater equipment is large, and it requires the space of a full-size van,” said Pucely. “But our technicians can do the same amount of work using a vehicle with a smaller engine, which is less expensive to run and burns less fuel.” Ford Motor Company and Best Buy: Teaming up in other ways Ford recently teamed up with Best Buy to ensure consumers have a great experience learning about and using Ford industry-leading SYNC® system. Best Buy Mobile offers thousands of specially trained associates to assist with Ford SYNC mobile device/phone compatibility and basic feature setup, and SYNC training for consumers. Best Buy also includes Ford SYNC mobile device/phone compatibility results in its monthly Best Buy Mobile Buyer’s Guide to identify which of the latest mobile devices work seamlessly with Ford SYNC. The ratings are based on phone compatibility tests conducted by Best Buy’s Geek Squad and are updated frequently. The SYNC ratings also can be found at www.syncmyride.com. In addition, Best Buy is the primary sponsor of the No. 43 Best Buy/Insignia Ford Fusion of Richard Petty Motorsports in the NASCAR Sprint Cup series. The Fusion is driven by A.J. Allmendinger. In August, Best Buy and Ford will launch a national sweepstakes focused around the all-new 2011 Ford Fiesta, the Insignia television brand, Richard Petty, Allmendinger and Ford’s Rally America and X Games Fiesta driver Ken Block.

UNIQUE FORD TRANSIT CONNECT TURNS HEADS AT DREAM CRUISE, HELPS LOCAL BUSINESS GENERATE SALES Custom-designed by Marygrove Awnings, the Transit Connect serves as a mobile showroom for the company * A unique-looking Ford Transit Connect drew a lot of attention on the street at last weekend’s Woodward Dream Cruise * Custom-designed by Marygrove Awnings, the Transit Connect serves as a mobile showroom for the company – complete with colorful, striped roof-mounted functioning manual and motorized awnings – that extend out from the vehicle on both sides * Marygrove Awnings says its business has grown 15 percent since the Transit Connect was purchased in March Ford Transit Connect Forum – If you were cruising up and down Woodward Avenue during last week’s Dream Cruise, chances are you did a double-take at Marygrove Awnings’ Ford Transit Connect. No, that was not a misprint. It’s true. Among the tens of thousands of spiffed-up new and classic cars garnering oohs and aahs from the crowd at one of the largest automotive events in the world was a rather unique-looking Ford Transit Connect wrapped from front to back with Marygrove’s distinctive logo and sporting colorful, striped roof-mounted awnings that extended out from the vehicle on both sides. Mike Falahee, owner of Marygrove Awnings, says the cruise down Woodward Avenue generated a lot of interest in the Transit Connect – and in his company. “It’s amazing how much attention it gets. People were coming up just to see the vehicle,” he said. “But they weren’t just looking at the Transit Connect, they were inquiring about our products as well.” The Marygrove Awnings Transit Connect was custom designed to be a mobile showroom for the Livonia, Mich.-based business, which is one of the largest retractable awning companies in the country. Falahee says the vehicle has helped improve sales by 15 percent since its purchase in March. “The vehicle is paying for itself time and time again,” he said. “And the reason is because customers can touch and feel the product and see how it works. You can’t do that if a guy walks into your home or business with a catalog.” The roof-mounted awnings actually demonstrate the product. One side shows the manual operation of the awning, and the other side shows the motorized function. “What’s nice about having the display up on the roof of the Transit Connect is that it gives enough height so that our customers can get underneath the awning and really feel the comfort of the awning when it is projected,” said Falahee. “And by taking the Transit Connect to a customer’s home, we can actually place the awning in the same direction of their patio. If they have a western exposure, for example, the Transit Connect is so maneuverable we can easily turn the vehicle sideways so that they can get a feel for the element of shade at a particular time of day,” he said. Marygrove Awnings conducts business in Southeastern Michigan, Texas and Ohio. Currently, the company has two Transit Connect sales vehicles – one in Michigan and one in Texas. “Our vehicle in Texas has even more bells and whistles, including an onboard computer,” said Falahee, referring to Ford Work Solutions™, an in-dash computer that allows employees to access appointment scheduling and billing information online. “We also installed a slide-out 30-inch flat screen television inside one of the doors so that we can show videos of various awning applications. It’s ideal for home and garden shows.” Falahee says the company recently purchased two more Transit Connects. “It’s been an extremely great product for us,” he said. “We’re very happy with it.” According to Len Deluca, director, Ford Commercial Vehicles, Marygrove Awnings’ experience with the Transit Connect shows what businesses can accomplish with creativity and imagination. “The Marygrove Transit Connect is not only cool, but it is another example of the vehicle’s versatility to meet the needs of our commercial customers,” he said.

SAFETY-KLEEN HELPS CUSTOMERS 'MAKE GREEN WORK' – FORD TRANSIT CONNECT HELPS SAFETY-KLEEN DO SAME Safety-Kleen Systems is replacing 140 large cargo vans in its national sales fleet with the Ford Transit Connect Login to download images. • Safety-Kleen Systems, the leading provider of environmental services, oil re-refining and responsible cleaning solutions, is replacing 140 large cargo vans in its national sales fleet with the Ford Transit Connect • Transit Connect enables Safety-Kleen's sales representatives to achieve 24 mpg versus the 15 mpg offered with larger cargo vans • In addition to fuel savings, Transit Connect will provide easier maneuverability in urban areas, added comfort loading and unloading products, and increased visibility for the company from a marketing standpoint • Transit Connect – 2010 North American Truck of the Year – offers fleet customers a fresh choice with improved fuel economy and maneuverability to operate in crowded urban areas Ford Transit Connect Forum – Safety-Kleen Systems, the leading provider of environmental services, oil re-refining and responsible cleaning solutions, is replacing 140 large cargo vans in its national sales fleet with the Ford Transit Connect. Through its products and services, Safety-Kleen enables other businesses to fulfill their green initiatives. The purchase of 140 units of Transit Connect will help the company achieve one of its green initiatives as well, according to Dan Kratz, director of Fleet Operations, Safety-Kleen. "Replacing older cargo vans with new, more fuel-efficient vehicles is part of an initiative to green our fleet," he said. "The Ford Transit Connect offers significant fuel savings over traditional cargo vans – 24 mpg versus 15 mpg. We also anticipate having less maintenance costs because the oil change intervals are longer with the Transit Connect." According to John Ruppert, general manager, Ford Commercial and Government Fleet Operations, Safety-Kleen's choice to use Transit Connect to advance its sustainability strategy underscores the versatility of the vehicle. "As we continue to engage existing and new customers, the Ford Transit Connect continues to find more and more applications across different businesses," he said. "Safety-Kleen is another example of a commercial customer realizing the benefits of the vehicle and its capability to deliver on the green pillar of Ford's product innovation." Benefits of Ford Transit Connect go beyond fuel economy Transit Connect will be used by members of Safety-Kleen's sales staff who work in 160 locations throughout the country. While fuel and cost savings are the main incentives, Kratz says there are other benefits to Ford's small compact van. "We conducted a survey with our sales folks, and they said they wanted a vehicle that was more urban-friendly – something they could maneuver more easily through congested city streets," he said. "The Ford Transit Connect will fit the bill perfectly and still allow for ample cargo room." Safety-Kleen sales representatives routinely carry samples of products, such as windshield washer fluid, the company's Eco-Power recycled oil and hand wipes. Kratz says the lower height of the Transit Connect will make it easier to get products in and out of the vehicle. "We've had a test vehicle that we've wrapped with our company logo and upfitted with shelving," he said. "It's certainly more comfortable to load and unload because there is no lifting to the height of a traditional cargo van." An unexpected bonus with the Ford Transit Connect, says Kratz, is the attention the vehicle attracts on the road. "Because of its unique shape and size, it attracts notice from people on the street," he said. "These vehicles will provide a lot of exposure for the company from a marketing standpoint." Safety-Kleen's corporate motto is "Make Green Work." "We're not just making green work for other companies," said Kratz. "We're making it work for ourselves. The Ford Transit Connect is a great example of that."

Ford Transit Connect may deliver profits Van leads wave of new commercial vehicles that could offset revenue lost from drop in pickup sales Ford Transit Connect Forum - Ford's Transit Connect, a business vehicle used to haul goods such as food and paint, is leading a new wave of delivery vans that may help replace profits lost when Americans fell out of love with pickups. Nissan will add a commercial van this year from a U.S. plant built to make Titan pickups, while Chrysler may use models from Fiat as the core of a new business fleet. General Motors is also studying a global truck design to enter the category, people familiar with the planning said. "Now would be a good time to be coming into this market," said Chris Fisher, an analyst at Power Systems Research in Eagan, Minn. "A lot of the increased sales volume will be driven by increased consumer spending in the latter half of the year, which should continue into 2011." Reaching more commercial-vehicle buyers would help offset a 55 percent plunge in sales of large pickups since 2005 as rising fuel prices chased off casual customers and the recession cut fleet purchases. That collapse robbed GM, Ford and Chrysler of the source of most of their profits in the past two decades. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

Ford to unveil all-electric Transit van at Chicago show Ford Transit Connect Forum - Ford Motor Co. says it will unveil a new, all-electric version of its Ford Transit Connect commercial van next week at the Chicago Auto Show. The battery-powered van, which will be available to fleet customers later this year, is the first in a series of electric vehicles the Dearborn automaker has promised to bring to market over the next couple of years. From The Detroit News: http://detnews.com/article/20100202/AUTO01/2020429/1148/Ford-to-unveil-all-electric-Transit-van-at-Chicago-show#ixzz0eXaSKkDA

Chrysler to fight Ford compact van with Fiat Doblo Ford Transit Connect Forum - Chrysler Group's new Ram brand will sell a version of the new Fiat Doblo compact van in the United States. The Fiat-sourced Ram van will go up against Ford Motor Co.'s Transit Connect, which Ford started selling in the U.S. in July. Chrysler is separating the Ram pickup range from the Dodge brand and adding Ram-badged vans. The Doblo will join a large Fiat-based van to be sold in the U.S. by the new Ram truck brand, along with a restyled chassis cab model and light and heavy duty Ram vehicles. With the new range, Chrysler expects to boost Ram sales to 415,000 by 2014, up from 280,000 in 2010. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

Ford Transit Connect does job cheaply Ford Transit Connect Forum - Got the Econoline Blues? Need a cheap, roomy van to haul your indie band's gear from one college town to the next? Your plumbing company's profits circling the drain as gasoline prices rise? You're a handyman who needs a handy van? Ford's ready to change your tune with the 2010 Transit Connect. The compact van fits into a Toyota Corolla-sized parking space but boasts a workmanlike 135 cubic feet of cargo space and 1,600-pound payload capacity. Throw in budget-balancing EPA fuel economy ratings of 22 m.p.g. in the city and 25 m.p.g. on the highway and the Transit Connect should have the butcher, baker and candlestick maker whistling while they work. The Transit Connect is a triumph of space efficiency and flexibility delivered in a tidy and economical package. It's intended for small businesses that need carrying capacity but can't afford the sticker price and fuel consumption of traditional vans like the Ford Econoline, Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana and delivery versions of the Dodge Grand Caravan. Prices for the 2010 Transit Connect start at $20,780 for the base XL Cargo model and run to $22,350 for the XLT Wagon version. I tested a well-equipped Wagon XLT with a $24,280 sticker price. All prices exclude destination charges. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

INTERIOR LANDSCAPE COMPANY KEEPS ‘GREEN’ WITH FORD TRANSIT CONNECT COMPACT VANS • Ambius, the world’s largest provider of plants, replica foliage and flowers for commercial environments, invested in a fleet of Ford Transit Connect compact vans for its U.S. operations • Transit Connect is a global product, bringing the best of Ford’s global product portfolio to provide a unique, efficient business solution for North American fleet customers • Transit Connect is equipped with a 2.0-liter I-4 engine and four-speed automatic overdrive transmission combination, rated at 22 mpg city, 25 highway. On sale now, Transit Connect starts at $21,475, including destination FORD TRANSIT CONNECT FORUM - Ambius has used a variety of transportation solutions to facilitate United States operations, specializing in workplace interior landscaping and seasonal décor. Until now, employees either used their own transportation, repurposed minivans or company-supplied full-size vans. Seeking a smaller overall vehicle package, with the capacity and payload necessary to transport all sizes and scope of greenery, Ambius recently bought a fleet of 70 Ford Transit Connect vans. Learn more about Ambius at www.ambius.com. DETAILS: Ambius U.S. operations is headquartered in Buffalo Grove, Ill., and employs 1,400 people in 40 locations around the country. Fleet Manager Alicia Hammond said she fulfilled several business objectives with the Ford Transit Connect compact vans. Intrigued by the Transit Connect’s compact overall dimensions, combining fuel efficiency with generous cargo space and payload capacity, Hammond made an initial investment in 70 vehicles. In addition to improving fleet fuel economy and reducing operating expenses, Hammond said Ambius needed an easy-to-maneuver, versatile vehicle for its drivers, many of whom don’t have a lot of commercial vehicle experience. Also high on her list of objectives – a vehicle that delivers on the company’s “green” agenda and is in keeping with the Ambius sustainability goals. A billboard on wheels, Transit Connect’s broad flanks offered Hammond an opportunity to display Ambius branding, increasing awareness and improving corporate image. The Transit Connect is powered by a 2.0-liter I-4 engine, mated to a four-speed automatic overdrive transmission. This combination is rated at 22 mpg city, 25 highway, representing a significant fuel economy increase – essentially doubling fuel economy – over full-size vans. Ford’s Transit Connect enjoys a global reputation for durability and toughness dating back to its 2003 launch, when an expert jury of European commercial vehicle journalists named it International Van of the Year. Transit Connect has more than doubled the cargo-carrying space of the Chevrolet HHR Panel, making it suitable for a broader range of commercial use applications. The Transit Connect offers commercial users a cargo payload of up to 1,600 pounds. This capacity means the Transit Connect can carry a larger payload than the full-size Dodge Ram 1500 standard-cab short-box pickup truck. The editors at Popular Mechanics recently recognized Transit Connect as an Automotive Excellence Award winner in the Workhorse category, calling it a “brilliant combination with efficient use of space – and fuel – that can handle big jobs. Transit Connect arrives at an ideal time when contractors and other business owners are looking to downsize and save on fuel.” The versatile Transit Connect is a global Ford product that can be adapted to multiple commercial business applications. It is available now at Ford dealerships nationwide.

Downloads (Adobe PDF) provided by: Ed Miller at TransitConnect.org. • 2010 Transit Connect Order Guide - click here to download. • Transit Connect CNG Taxi brochure. Click here to download. • Product brochure - click here to download. • Catering rack package - click here to download. • Bin and rack pageage - click here to download. • Work Solutions brochure - click here to download. • Thermoking cold storage package - click here to download. • Katerack modular shelving unit - click here to download. • Service packages (plumber, work station, delivery, etc.) - click here to download.

Ford Transit Connect grows link between U.S., Turkey In May, a Ford Transit Connect commercial van rolled off the line at the Ford Otosan factory in Kocaeli, Turkey, and up the gangplank of a waiting transport ship bound for America. It was the first vehicle in the first shipment of automobiles from Turkey to the United States, and the significance of the moment was evident from the beaming grin on the face of the driver, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. On this side of the Atlantic, there was no such fanfare. With industry observers watching and waiting for the first Chinese-made cars to arrive in the U.S., the first Turkish-made models slipped in largely unnoticed. But in the four months since that first van rolled off the Grand Benelux, the Transit Connect has exceeded Ford's expectations. Sales have been brisk, with dealers hard-pressed to keep the compact van on their lots -- a win for both Ford and Turkey. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

The law of unintended consequences is a funny one. Take the chicken tax. Back in the 1960s, West Germany imposed high tariffs on American grown chicken. President Johnson – a man you would not want to mess with – fought back by imposing high import tariffs on foreign made trucks and commercial vans. This is one of the reasons why there are no full-size German pickup trucks. It's also why German egg yolks are orange while ours are yellow (grass fed chicken vs. corn fed chicken), but that's another story. The only reason we have the Toyota Tundra and the Nissan Titan is because those companies decided to make them here in the U.S. Otherwise they'd be too expensive. This poses a real problem if you're Ford and you want to bring in your made-in-Turkey Transit Connect van. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.