Transit Connect Guide

Ford's 2010 Transit Connect means business FORD TRANSIT CONNECT FORUM - The recession is over, and I've got proof. While many "experts" will point to the GDP, unemployment figures and the trade deficit, I'm more of a believer of those tangible products that predict our nation's financial plight. Sales of cardboard boxes, diamonds and lipstick have been monitored in the past and could work today. Future economic soothsayers will gaze into their Magic 8 Balls and use the Ford Transit Connect sales numbers as a barometer of the nation's small business health. To paraphrase a different auto exec from a different time: What's good for small businesses is good for the country. Who knew the U.S. economic engine was a little 2-liter four-cylinder? But the 2010 Transit Connect's four-banger can handle the load, 1,600 pounds at a time. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

Ford Transit Connect sales top 2,000 in August Ford Transit Connect Forum - Ford Motor Co. said Monday it sold more than 2,000 of its new Transit Connect commercial vans in the vehicle's first month of sales. Ford said small businesses and fleet customers snapped up the van in August, with some vehicles selling in fewer than 10 days after arriving at dealerships. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

Ford Transit Connect Forum - From AutoBlog.com: Welcome splash of news for the UAW and the U.S. economy: Ford will commence production of the Transit Connect at a U.S. assembly plant by mid-year 2012. Currently built in Turkey on a version of the Euro Focus platform, the next generation Transit will also migrate to the FWD compact platform that will underpin the next Focus both hear and abroad. Ford plants in Wayne, Michigan and Louisville, Kentucky will be retooled to build cars on that architecture, meaning the that Transit could join them. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

Transit Connect hauls Ford back into U.S. small-van market Ford has launched its Transit Connect in the United States, and about time, too. It's one of the coolest vehicles coming out this year. And at a starting price of $21,475, it's a bargain, too. The Transit Connect isn't new. In fact, it's been on sale around the world since 2003, and Ford has moved 600,000 of them. But it's new to the States, and everyone from small-business owners to bicyclists to kayakers to race teams should be grateful. It's perfect for you. Ford's 2.0-liter Duratec four powers the Transit Connect, producing 136 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque. With that engine coupled to a four-speed automatic transmission, the van gets 22 mpg city and 25 mpg on the highway. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

The Ford Transit Connect vans have started shipping from Turkey to the United States. Expect them to be on dealership lots toward mid-July.

Ford News Review: 2010 Ford Transit Connect FORD TRANSIT CONNECT FORUM - If you think its odd that the corner florist needs a full-size SUV to deliver a couple of pick-me-up bouquets, you're not alone. Fully aware of which way the winds of fuel economy and thrift are blowing, and seeing a hole in the commercial truck market big enough to drive a compact van through, Ford has introduced the Transit Connect, which happens to be a compact van. Which I will refer to as the TC, because Transit Connect is a terrible name and Magnum P.I.'s helicopter pilot deserves at last to be immortalized in motor vehicle form. Click here for PHOTOS of the Transit Connect On sale overseas for the past 6 years, the small, but tall boy has proven its worth in the crowded urban centers of Europe and Asia, where a tiny footprint combined with serious cargo carrying ability have made it a strong-seller. Using a chassis cribbed from the Ford Focus, the front wheel-drive TC trades that car's independent rear suspension for a solid axle and a pair of pickup-style leaf springs which give it a payload capacity of 1,600 pounds. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

FORD TRANSIT CONNECT BRINGS 22 CITY, 25 HIGHWAY MPG TO MARKET-LEADING COMMERCIAL TRUCK LINEUP Ford Motor Company launches today the 2010 Transit Connect, a new commercial vehicle built and designed specifically for small business owners. * Ford fills an unmet U.S. commercial business need with new Transit Connect, an industry-exclusive vehicle specifically developed to be a smart new choice for small-business owners * Low operating and ownership costs, a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter engine, 135.3 cubic feet of cargo space, a payload capacity up to 1,600 pounds, available Ford Work Solutions™ technologies and various cargo management systems make Transit Connect a smart solution * Transit Connect goes on sale in the U.S. this summer, starting at $21,475, including destination, rated at 22 city, 25 highway EPA miles per gallon * Later in 2010, Transit Connect will be available with battery electric-power and a useful range close to 100 miles Ford Transit Connect Forum – Ford is tapping its global portfolio of products to meet the unique needs of American small-business owners with the 2010 Transit Connect, a spacious new fuel-efficient alternative to larger commercial vehicles that’s ideal for navigating U.S. cities. “Transit Connect is a tangible success of our ‘One Ford’ strategy to harness the best of our global products and offer new choices and solutions to customers in other parts of the world,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. “With 40 percent market share, Ford is the reigning Commercial Truck leader in the United States, and we’re looking for Transit Connect to further grow our leadership and allow even more customers to experience the ‘Built Ford Tough’ difference.” Transit Connect arrives with 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. Ford Transit Connect is built on a dedicated front-wheel drive commercial vehicle platform to meet and exceed the needs of small-business owners and entrepreneurs. To prepare Transit Connect for United States duty, the powertrain was upgraded to include a proven Duratec 2.0-liter dual-overhead cam (DOHC) I-4 engine – giving 22 city, 25 highway miles per gallon – and a four-speed automatic overdrive transaxle. Several design details, including the grille and interior touches, have been updated to lend the vehicle a fresh, new look for its American debut. “This workhorse is like nothing available today in the American market,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president for Global Product Development. “We’re offering small-business owners a real choice to meet their needs, instead of asking them to pull seats out of minivans or compromise on one or more of their needs. Transit Connect is good news for small-business owners nationwide.” As part of Ford’s aggressive new electric vehicle plan to bring pure battery-powered vehicles, hybrids and plug-in hybrids to market, a battery electric-powered Transit Connect will be offered later in 2010. The Transit Connect battery electric vehicle will be the initial offering in Ford’s recently announced electrification initiatives. Ford is working with Smith Electric Vehicles, the European market’s leading battery electric upfitter of commercial vehicles, a part of the U.K.-based Tanfield Group of companies. Since 1920, Smith has converted tens of thousands of commercial vehicles to battery electric-power. Many commercial users travel predictable, short-range routes, with lots of stop and go in urban and suburban environments. A range of up to 100 miles makes the battery electric-powered Transit Connect a useful hauler, with significantly reduced operation and maintenance costs. For companies aiming for sustainable mobility solutions, it can help them deliver the goods in an environmentally friendly way. Transit Connect: It’s Global More than 600,000 Ford Transit Connects have been sold since 2003, to customers in 55 countries on three continents. To fulfill the unmet needs of small-business owners and entrepreneurs in the United States, Ford’s Global Product Development team was able to quickly adapt the Transit Connect for the American market, validate its durability and tailor the cargo space for the unique yet diverse needs of small-business proprietors. Transit Connect: It’s Capable “Transit Connect was developed to bring small-business owners a new vehicle choice, offering significantly improved fuel economy, generous and accessible cargo space with the agility and maneuverability to deliver the goods in tight quarters,” said Rob Stevens, chief nameplate engineer. Transit Connect capability begins with capacity. With 135.3 cubic feet of Transit Connect cargo volume, no other vehicle in the American market can deliver this combination of capacity and fuel economy: * Split rear cargo doors open at a standard 180 degrees, or an optional 255 degrees * Lift-over height is less than two feet, when the Transit Connect is unloaded * The cargo area opens up to a maximum of 59.1 inches of floor to ceiling height * The load width is 48.1 inches, between the wheel arches * Load length is a generous 72.6 inches or more than six feet of cargo floor space and dual sliding rear side doors provide wide access to the generous cargo space Transit Connect has more than double the cargo-carrying space of the Chevrolet HHR Panel, making it suitable for a broader range of commercial-use applications. It also offers commercial users a cargo payload of up to 1,600 pounds – a larger payload than the full size Dodge Ram 1500 standard-cab short-box pickup truck. “Transit Connect can swallow far more cargo than people might think,” added Stevens. The Transit Connect's capability story goes beyond capacity. Its size and nimble driving dynamics provide agility for urban routes. Power-assisted rack and pinion steering allows a 39-foot curb-to-curb turning circle, making it maneuverable when delivering the goods in tight quarters. The Transit Connect features a 15.4 gallon fuel tank, providing the useful capability of a highway range of more than 350 miles. Transit Connect: It’s Adaptable Ford Transit Connect was conceived, developed and engineered to meet the needs of small- business proprietors all over the world. Once it arrives in the U.S. from Ford of Europe’s production facility in Kocaeli, Turkey, it can be outfitted for specific needs across a diverse range of users. Transit Connect is offered with a wide range of upfitted cargo management options, similar to the enduring, market-leading Ford E-Series commercial vehicles. Bulkheads, racks, bins and other upfits can be mixed, matched and configured to suit many specific commercial applications and needs. Customers have numerous configuration choices, with multiple commercial applications: * Transit Connect is available as a cargo van with no windows in the sliding side doors combined with rear cargo door privacy glass * A panel van version is offered with no side or rear cargo area windows * Transit Connect can be configured with side and rear door privacy glass for maximum driver visibility * A wagon version also is available with a folding second-row bench seat, in either two-or three-passenger configurations Ford Transit Connect can be further adapted to individual business needs with the inclusion of Ford Work Solutions™. The “solutions” behind this system allow customers to: * Run a business from inside the Transit Connect – right from the job site. An in-dash computer provides Internet access, productivity software and optional printing capabilities * Track tools. Tool Link™ gives the ability to organize, scan and track tools, inventory and other cargo items * Track the fleet. Crew Chief™ is a tailored telematics service to monitor and manage small or large fleets The Ford Work Solutions in-dash computer allows small-business owners to run their enterprises from inside the Transit Connect. Applications include downloading customer or product information, remotely accessing an office work station computer, sending and receiving text messages, navigating job or delivery locations with the Garmin navigation function and connecting with customers via hands-free phone functionality. With a bright touch screen for easy use and visibility, the in-dash computer runs the Windows CE 6.0 operating system. Word processing, spreadsheet, calculator and calendar applications are included. With applicable subscriptions, the system can provide users with Internet access, remote document access and Garmin Online services such as traffic, weather and fuel prices. The in-dash computer enables the availability of Tool Link, by DeWALT™. Using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags that adhere to individual tools or objects, Tool Link allows the Transit Connect cargo area to be scanned for the appropriate tools and inventory items, prior to leaving for the jobsite or route. Tool Link helps manage valuable tools and ensures that specific items are on-board and available for use. Tool Link helps to keep all RFID-tagged objects on board, so at the end of the day these items are secure and available for work on the next job. Crew Chief™ is a tool for fleet managers to track vehicles, staff and Transit Connect diagnostics. This system, not available in conjunction with the in-dash computer, provides a fleet manager with constant access to vehicle location information, the ability to track vehicle performance, automatic notification of vehicle maintenance needs and the ability to let drivers drive ─ not fill out written vehicle logs. Crew Chief allows online access to vehicle location, speed, idle time, fuel usage and more than 30 diagnostic measures. Functions and reporting can be tailored to meet the specific needs of fleets large or small. Crew Chief has “geo-fencing” capability, allowing a fleet manager to set geographic or time of use boundaries. Transit Connect is adaptable to multiple drivers. It features a six-way manually adjustable reclining driver’s seat with an armrest, and a four-way adjustable reclining passenger’s seat. In addition, the steering wheel tilts and telescopes to fit drivers of diverse sizes. Transit Connect: It’s Durable Ford Transit Connect has a global track record of durability. It’s a purpose-built commercial vehicle, built on a dedicated commercial vehicle platform in an exclusively commercial vehicle production facility. Transit Connect is designed, engineered and manufactured by Ford of Europe to beat tough, light commercial vehicle durability standards. The Transit Connect is powered by a Duratec 2.0-liter DOHC I-4 engine, featuring four valves per cylinder and an aluminum block and head. Sequential multiport electronic fuel injection provides precise fuel metering for smooth and economical performance. This engine, delivering 136 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 128 ft.-lbs. of torque at 4,750 rpm, has proven American market durability. This engine is mated to a four-speed automatic transaxle with overdrive for additional fuel economy. A final-drive ratio of 4.20 to 1 is designed to give Transit Connect pulling power for the long haul. Fifteen-inch steel wheels with P205/65R-15 black sidewall tires put the Transit Connect in contact with the road. The Transit Connect was developed at the outset to be durable, with a high-strength steel front crossmember, a high-strength steel reinforced body shell, twin- side cross members and side-impact protection. Several areas of the body structure are double-skinned for additional strength, increasing resistance to the minor scrapes inherent to urban delivery situations. Swage lines along the lower side door panels add additional rigidity and visual character. As a nimble, purpose-built commercial vehicle, Transit Connect can be a smart choice for the small-business owners currently over-taxing the capabilities of an aging minivan with the passenger seats removed. Transit Connect: It’s Professional While providing an ideal palette for identification and logo of a business on its flanks, Transit Connect tells the world that its owner or operator has made a smart, savvy and efficient choice. Transit Connect keeps passengers and cargo safe and secure, too. Front and side air bags help keep driver and first-row passenger safe. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) are standard, as well. Roll Stability Control® (RSC) is standard on wagon versions and optional in van configurations. A locking exterior hood release helps keep things secure up front. Lock-in-Latch shielded door locks help Transit Connect resist break-in. Transit Connect helps small-business professionals keep their cool with standard air-conditioning and an AM/FM Stereo receiver with two speakers. A similar audio unit is offered, adding a single disc CD player and an audio input jack. A standard center console includes two large cupholders and twin storage bins for receipts, invoices and toll coins. The Transit Connect roofline allows an overhead storage shelf, holding the small items an entrepreneur needs to keep top-of-mind. Transit Connect: It’s Accessible With models starting at $21,475, including destination, Transit Connect is accessible to a wide range of American small-business owners. Plus, low operating costs, excellent fuel economy and 7,500-mile service intervals make economic sense, for businesses on tight budgets. A comfortable ride, an automatic transaxle and small exterior dimensions make it accessible to lots of drivers that might be intimidated by the prospect of a full-size commercial vehicle. “Transit Connect will be a useful small-business tool,” said Chief Engineer Stevens. “It drives like a car, works like a van and is engineered to be as tough as a truck.”

Ford to show its family plan for Transit van Ford plans to unveil a family friendly concept version of its upcoming 2010 Transit Connect small van at the New York auto show next week. Advertisement Ford developed the Transit Connect for use as a small delivery vehicle for businesses, but the Family One concept shows the roomy little vehicle can become a playpen on wheels. The body, essentially a scaled-down UPS van built on a compact car's platform, provides plenty of space for play and kid-friendly amenities. The base version of the Transit Connect will come with a stripped interior and a $21,475 price tag when it goes on sale this summer. Powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the Transit Connect should get EPA ratings of 22 m.p.g. in the city and 25 m.p.g. on the highway. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

Ford retools Transit Connect van for families at New York auto show Ford has lauded the small-business functionality of its Transit Connect van, but it is now turning its attention to pleasing families. With feedback from 200 families, Ford designers created the Transit Connect Family One in an attempt to provide the ultimate family carrier. Set to debut at the New York auto show, the Family One includes entertainment to keep kids happy and tools to help parents stay organized. For the kids, the second row features a digital media system that projects onto a roof-mounted screen that doubles as a sunshade. People can watch movies and games and use wireless Web browsing though the system. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

FORD’S TRANSIT CONNECT BRINGS 22 CITY, 25 HIGHWAY MPG TO MARKET-LEADING COMMERCIAL TRUCK LINEUP • Transit Connect is rated at 22 city, 25 highway EPA miles per gallon, goes on sale in the U.S. this summer, starting at $21,475, including destination • Ford fills an unmet U.S. commercial business need with new Transit Connect, an industry-exclusive vehicle specifically developed to be a smart new choice for small business owners • Low operating and ownership costs, 135 cubic feet of cargo space and a 1,600 pound payload make Transit Connect a smart solution Ford Transit Forum – Ford today confirmed EPA fuel economy for the 2010 Ford Transit Connect at 22 miles per gallon in city driving and 25 miles per gallon on the highway. “No other vehicle on the road in the U.S. today delivers the combination of fuel economy and useful space as the Ford Transit Connect,” said Rob Stevens, chief engineer. “It’s a unique package, offering a 1,600 pound payload, 135 cubic feet of cargo space and superior fuel economy.” To deliver a more fuel efficient commercial vehicle, Ford is tapping its global portfolio of products to meet the unique needs of American small business owners with the 2010 Transit Connect. It represents a spacious new alternative to larger commercial vehicles and is ideal for navigating congested cities. Transit Connect arrives with 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: It’s Durable Ford Transit Connect is a purpose-built commercial vehicle, built on a dedicated commercial vehicle platform in an exclusive commercial vehicle production facility. It is designed, engineered and manufactured by Ford of Europe to beat tough, light commercial vehicle durability standards. The Transit Connect is powered by a proven Duratec 2.0-liter DOHC I-4 engine, featuring four valves per cylinder and an aluminum block and head. Sequential multiport electronic fuel injection provides precise fuel metering for smooth and economical performance. This engine, delivering an estimated 136 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 128 ft.-lbs. of torque at 4,750 rpm, has proven American market durability. This efficient engine is mated to a four-speed automatic transaxle with overdrive. A final-drive ratio of 4.20 to 1 is specified to give Transit Connect pulling power for the long haul and fifteen-inch steel wheels with P205/65R-15 black sidewall tires put it in contact with the road. The Transit Connect was developed at the outset to be durable, with a boron steel front crossmember, a high-strength steel reinforced body shell, twin- side cross members and side-impact protection. Several areas of the body structure are double-skinned for additional strength, increasing resistance to the minor scrapes inherent to urban delivery situations. “Transit Connect will be a useful small business tool,” said Chief Engineer Stevens. “It drives like a car, works like a van and is engineered to be as tough as a truck.” Click Here for the complete 2010 Transit Connect Overview

2010 Ford Transit Connect Specifications BODY Construction Steel unibody Final Assembly Location Kocaeli, Turkey POWERTRAIN AND CHASSIS ENGINE Type 2.0 Duratec DOHC I-4 Manufacturing location Valencia Spain Configuration Aluminum block and head Intake Manifold Nylon (PA6 GF30) Exhaust Manifold Cast-iron Crankshaft Cast-iron Redline 7000 RPM (intermittent) Idle Speed in Drive 650 RPM Throttle Body Electronic Valvetrain DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder Valve Diameter Intake valve head dia 35mm, Exhaust valve head dia 30mm Pistons Die cast Aluminum Connecting Rods Powdered metal Ignition Electronic Bore x Stroke 3.44 x 3.27 / 87.5 x 83.1 mm Displacement 121 cu in. / 1999 cc Compression Ratio 10.0:1 Horsepower 136 @ 6,300 RPM Horsepower Per Liter 68 Torque 128 lb.-ft @ 4,750 RPM Recommended Fuel 87 Octane Fuel Capacity 15.1 gallons Fuel Injection Sequential multiport electronic Oil Capacity 4.5 quarts with filter Recommended Oil 5w20 (NA) Emission Control Three-way catalyst ENGINE Federal Standards Yes California Standards Yes DRIVETRAIN Layout Front-wheel drive TRANSMISSION Standard 4-speed Automatic transmission with overdrive Gear Ratios 1st 2.82:1 2nd 1.50:1 3rd 1.00:1 4th 0.73:1 Reverse 2.65:1 Final Drive 4.20:1 SUSPENSION Front Front independent MacPherson Strut Suspension w/ stabilizer bar Rear Rear multileaf Spring Suspension w/ stabilizer bar STEERING Type Power rack and pinion Steering Column Collapsible Turning circle curb-to-curb 39 feet BRAKES Type 4-Wheel power front disc & rear drum Anti-Lock Brake system (ABS) Front Disc Swept Area N/A Rear Drum Swept Area N/A Power assist Yes WHEELS AND TIRES 15” wheels with 6-spoke wheel covers DIMENSIONS (inches unless otherwise noted) EXTERIOR Wheelbase 114.6 Vehicle length 180.6 Vehicle width (without mirrors) 70.7 Vehicle height at curb 79.3 Track width, front/rear 59.3/61.1 INTERIOR Seating capacity 2, 4 or 5 Headroom Front row 51.1 Second row 50.5 Legroom Front row 40.5 Second row 38.5 Shoulder room Front row 54.4 Second row 59.6 Hip room Front row 50.8 Second row 59.8 WEIGHTS AND CAPACITIES (pounds unless otherwise noted) Total passenger volume 132.1 (wagon)/65.1 (Van) Cargo Volume Behind 1st Row 135.3 Cargo Volume Behind 2nd Row 78.1 Maximum payload 1600 lbs Base curb weight FWD 3470 FUEL ECONOMY (city/hwy) FWD Pending EPA Fuel Economy Certification

FORD TO OFFER FIRST BATTERY ELECTRIC COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ON GLOBAL TRANSIT CONNECT PLATFORM • The first product in Ford’s aggressive new electric vehicle plan, a battery electric-powered version of Ford’s global Transit Connect commercial vehicle, will be offered in 2010 • Ford is collaborating with Europe’s leading battery electric commercial vehicle upfitter – Smith Electric Vehicles, a unit of the Tanfield Group ─ to quickly bring this vehicle to market in North America • The initiative leverages the “One Ford” global strategy, delivering pure battery electric power for commercial applications on a global platform. It also supports Ford’s strategy of bringing scalable, affordable and fuel-efficient solutions for millions while helping reduce American commercial vehicle dependence on oil Ford Transit Forum – Ford Motor Company today announced plans to market a pure battery electric-powered light commercial vehicle in North America, based on the all-new Transit Connect global commercial vehicle platform. “The new Transit Connect light commercial vehicle with battery electric power represents the next logical step in our pursuit of even greater fuel economy and sustainability,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of Global Product Development. “A growing number of our commercial vehicle fleet clients have expressed interest in electrification as a sustainable mobility solution. By leveraging our global team and asset portfolio, we’re able to quickly bring this environmentally friendly, strong ‘silent type’ to market.” The use of a global commercial vehicle platform showcases Ford’s ability to deliver products with worldwide marketing opportunities. Powering this electrification drive is the company’s “One Ford” global product vision. Transit Connect with battery electric power is the initial offering in Ford’s aggressive new electric vehicle plan to bring pure battery-powered vehicles, hybrids and plug-in hybrids to market. To start, during the next four years, Ford will introduce in North America: * The Transit Connect battery electric commercial vehicle in 2010 * A new battery electric small car in 2011 * Next-generation hybrid vehicles in 2012 * Plug-in hybrid versions in 2012 Collaboration with experienced global partner enables speed to market Ford is working with Smith Electric Vehicles, the European market’s leading battery electric upfitter of commercial vehicles, which is part of the U.K.-based Tanfield Group of companies. Since 1920, Smith has converted tens of thousands of vehicles to battery electric power. In the U.K. and select European markets, Smith already offers battery electric versions of the Ford Transit medium commercial vehicle to fleet customers. Transit Connect commercial platform ideally suited to battery electric power Ford Transit Connect has been a global success. Its unique combination of car-like driving dynamics, cargo capacity, accessibility and low costs of entry and operation make it a logical platform for battery electric power. Transit Connect has been designed, engineered and manufactured by Ford of Europe on a dedicated global commercial vehicle platform to beat tough, light commercial vehicle durability standards. Many commercial users travel predictable, short-range routes, with lots of stop and go in urban and suburban environments. For companies aiming for sustainable mobility solutions, Transit Connect with battery electric power can help them deliver in an environmentally friendly way. A range of up to 100 miles makes Transit Connect a useful hauler, with significantly reduced operation and maintenance costs over the long haul. Numerous federal and regional programs offer incentives for companies to electrify their fleets. Ford Transit Connect with battery electric power will be available in select U.S. Ford dealerships in 2010.

FORD LAUNCHES ALL-NEW TRANSIT CONNECT, ADDING TO MARKET-LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE FLEET • Ford fills an unmet U.S. commercial business need with new Transit Connect, an industry-exclusive vehicle specifically developed to be a smart new choice for small business owners • Low operating and ownership costs, a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter engine, 135 cubic feet of cargo space, a 1,600 pound payload capacity, available Ford Work Solutions technology and various cargo management systems make Transit Connect a smart solution • Transit Connect, a strong global Ford product, goes on sale in the U.S. this summer, starting at $21,475, including destination Ford Transit Forum – Ford is tapping its global portfolio of products to meet the unique needs of American small business owners with the 2010 Transit Connect, a spacious new fuel-efficient alternative to larger commercial vehicles that’s ideal for navigating U.S. cities. IMAGE GALLERY “Transit Connect is a tangible success of our ‘One Ford’ strategy to harness the best of our global products and offer new choices and solutions to customers in other parts of the world,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. “With 40 percent market share, Ford is the reigning Commercial Truck leader in the United States, and we’re looking for Transit Connect to further grow our leadership and allow even more customers to experience the ‘Built Ford Tough’ difference.” The 2010 Ford Transit Connect will be unveiled at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show. It arrives with 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. Ford Transit Connect is built on a dedicated front-wheel drive commercial vehicle platform to meet and exceed the needs of small business owners and entrepreneurs. To prepare the Transit Connect for the unique needs of small businesses in the United States, the powertrain was upgraded to include a proven Duratec 2.0-liter dual-overhead cam (DOHC) four-cylinder engine and a four-speed automatic overdrive transaxle. Several design details, including the grille and interior touches, have been updated to lend the vehicle a fresh, new look for its American debut. “This workhorse is like nothing available today in the American market,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of Global Product Development. “We’re offering small business owners a real choice to meet their needs, instead of asking them to pull seats out of minivans or compromise on one or more of their needs. Transit Connect is good news for small business owners nationwide.” Transit Connect: It’s Global More than 600,000 Ford Transit Connects have been sold since 2003, to customers in 58 countries and on four continents. To fulfill the unmet needs of small business owners and entrepreneurs in the United States, Ford’s Global Product Development team was able to quickly adapt the Transit Connect for the American market, validate its durability and tailor the cargo space for the unique yet diverse needs of small business proprietors. Transit Connect: It’s Capable “Transit Connect was developed to bring small business owners a new vehicle choice, offering significantly improved fuel economy, generous and accessible cargo space with the agility and maneuverability to deliver the goods in tight quarters,” said Rob Stevens, chief engineer. Transit Connect’s capability begins with capacity. With 135 cubic feet of Transit Connect cargo volume, no other vehicle in the American market can deliver this combination of capacity and fuel economy. * Split rear cargo doors open at a standard 180 degrees, or an optionally available 255 degrees. When open, these doors provide access to 52.1 inches of available load height. * Lift-over height is less than two feet, when the Transit Connect is unloaded * Once inside, the cargo area opens up to 59.1 inches of floor to ceiling load height * The load width is 47.8 inches, between the wheel arches * Load length is a generous 72.6 inches or more than six feet of cargo floor space. Dual sliding rear side doors provide wide access to the generous cargo space as well Transit Connect has more than double 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 1,600 pounds. This capacity means that the Transit Connect can carry a larger payload than the full size Dodge Ram 1500 standard-cab short-box pickup truck. “Transit Connect can swallow far more cargo than people might think,” added Stevens. The Transit Connect's capability story goes beyond capacity. Its size and nimble driving dynamics provide agility for urban routes. Power-assisted rack and pinion steering allows a 39-foot curb-to-curb turning circle assures that Transit Connect is maneuverable when delivering the goods for entrepreneurs in tight quarters. The Transit Connect is expected to deliver at least 20 city and 24 highway mpg, pending EPA fuel economy certification. Transit Connect: It’s Adaptable Ford Transit Connect was conceived, developed and engineered to meet the needs of small business proprietors all over the world. Once it arrives in the United States from the plant in Kocaeli, Turkey, Transit Connect can be outfitted for specific needs across a diverse range of users. Bulkheads, racks, bins and other upfits can be mixed, matched and configured to suit many specific commercial applications and needs. Transit Connect is offered with a wide range of upfitted cargo management options, similar to the enduring, market-leading Ford E-Series commercial vehicles. Small business owners have tremendous choice, with this unrivaled commercial application. * Transit Connect is available as a cargo van with no windows in the sliding side doors combined with rear cargo door privacy glass * A panel van version is offered with no side or rear cargo area windows * Transit Connect also can be configured with side and rear door privacy glass for maximum driver visibility * Plus, a wagon version of Transit Connect is available with a folding second-row bench seat, in either two- or three-passenger configurations. The wagon is ideally suited to the specialized needs of a small business owner that uses Transit Connect for carrying cargo for business and passengers or family during off-hours Ford Transit Connect can be further adapted to individual business needs with the inclusion of Ford Work Solutions. The “solutions” behind this system allow customers to: * Run a business from inside the Transit Connect – right from the job site. An in-dash computer provides Internet access, productivity software and optional printing capabilities * Track tools. Tool Link™ gives the ability to organize, scan and track tools, inventory and other cargo items * Track the fleet. Crew Chief™ is a tailored telematics service to monitor and manage small or large fleets The Ford Work Solutions in-dash computer allows small business owners to run their enterprises from inside the Transit Connect. Applications include downloading customer or product information, remotely accessing an office work station computer, sending and receiving text messages, navigating job or delivery locations with the Garmin navigation function and connecting with customers via hands-free phone functionality. With a bright touch screen, for easy use and visibility, the in-dash computer runs the Windows CE 6.0 operating system. Word processing, spreadsheet, calculator and calendar applications are all included. With applicable subscriptions, the system can provide users with Internet access, remote document access and Garmin Online services such as traffic, weather and fuel prices. The in-dash computer enables the availability of Tool Link, by DeWalt™. Using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags that adhere to the tools or objects themselves, Tool Link allows the Transit Connect Cargo to be scanned for the appropriate tools and inventory items, prior to leaving for the jobsite or route. Tool Link helps manage valuable tools and ensures that specific items are on-board and available for use. Tool Link helps to keep all RFID-tagged objects on board, so at the end of the day, these items are secure and available for work on the next job. Crew Chief™ is a tool for fleet managers to track vehicles, staff and Transit Connect diagnostics. This system, not available in conjunction with the in-dash computer, provides a fleet manager with constant access to vehicle location information, the ability to track vehicle performance, automatic notification of vehicle maintenance needs and the ability to let drivers drive ─ not fill out written vehicle logs. Crew Chief allows online access to vehicle location, speed, idle time, fuel usage and more than 30 diagnostic measures. Functions and reporting can be tailored to meet the specific needs of fleets large or small. Crew Chief has “geo-fencing” capability, allowing a fleet manager to set geographic or time of use boundaries. Transit Connect is adaptable to multiple drivers, too. It features a six-way manually adjustable reclining driver’s seat with an armrest, and a four-way adjustable reclining passenger’s seat. The steering wheel tilts and telescopes to fit drivers of diverse sizes. Transit Connect: It’s Durable Ford Transit Connect has a global track record of durability. It’s a purpose-built commercial vehicle, built on a dedicated commercial vehicle platform in an exclusively commercial vehicle production facility. Transit Connect is designed, engineered and manufactured by Ford of Europe to beat tough, light commercial vehicle durability standards. The Transit Connect is powered by a well-proven Duratec 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, featuring four valves per cylinder and an aluminum block and head. Sequential multiport electronic fuel injection provides precise fuel metering for smooth and economical performance. This engine, delivering an estimated 136 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 128 ft.-lbs. of torque at 4,750 rpm, has proven American market durability. This engine is mated to a four-speed automatic transaxle with overdrive for additional fuel economy. A final-drive ratio of 4.20 to 1 is designed to give Transit Connect pulling power for the long haul. Fifteen inch steel wheels with P205/65R-15 black sidewall tires put the Transit Connect in contact with the road. The Transit Connect was developed at the outset to be durable, with a boron steel front crossmember, a high-strength steel reinforced body shell, twin- side cross members and side-impact protection. Several areas of the body structure are double-skinned for additional strength, increasing resistance to the minor scrapes inherent to urban delivery situations. Swage lines along the lower side door panels add rigidity and visual character. As a nimble, purpose-built commercial vehicle, Transit Connect can be a smart choice for the small business proprietor currently over-taxing the capabilities of an aging minivan with the passenger seats removed. Transit Connect: It’s Professional While providing an ideal palette for identification and logo of a business on its body side, Transit Connect tells the world that its owner or operator has made a smart, savvy and efficient choice. Transit Connect keeps passengers and cargo safe and secure, too. Front and side air bags help keep driver and first-row passenger safe. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) are standard, as well. A locking exterior hood release helps keep things secure up front. Lock-in-Latch shielded door locks help Transit Connect resist break-in. Transit Connect helps small business professionals keep their cool with standard air-conditioning and an AM/FM Stereo receiver with two speakers. A similar audio unit is offered, adding a single disc CD player and an audio input jack. A standard center console includes two large cupholders and twin storage bins for receipts, invoices and toll coins. The Transit Connect roofline allows an overhead storage shelf, holding the small items an entrepreneur needs to keep top-of-mind. Transit Connect: It’s Accessible With models starting at $21,475, including destination, Transit Connect is accessible to a wide range of American small business owners. Plus, low operating costs, excellent fuel economy and 7,500 mile service intervals make economic sense, for businesses on tight budgets. A comfortable ride, an automatic transaxle and small exterior dimensions make Transit Connect accessible to lots of drivers that might be intimidated by the prospect of a full-size commercial vehicle. “Transit Connect will be a useful small business tool,” said Chief Engineer Stevens. “It drives like a car, works like a van and is engineered to be as tough as a truck.”

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