Ford Details New 2017 Transit, E-Series Upgrades
The 2017 Ford Transit lineup has been revealed, and the automaker appears to be doing everything it can to keep its commercially-successful commercial van at the top of the fleet heap for years to come.
The 2017 Transit range will be offered in 64 different configurations, increasing the number available in the 2016 model-year by six. These new configurations include the Transit 350 regular-wheelbase van, Transit 350 regular-wheelbase chassis cab, and Transit 350 regular-wheelbase cutaway, which will be offered with single rear wheel and 9,500-pound GVWR.
Also new for the 2017 model year, the dual-rear wheel van and wagon will be cheaper at the base level thanks to the standardization of the 3.7-liter engine. This improvement also makes those models CNG- or LPG-capable.
All 2017 Transit models will be available with a low-profile center console, which will come particularly in handy for delivery drivers who may need to move quickly from the cab to the rear of the vehicle and for fleets who may need to add computer equipment into the center console.
“Walk-through center consoles are just one enhancement we are adding in response to real-world driver input,” says Yaro Hetman, brand manager, Ford Transit, Transit Connect and E-Series. “Fleet customers tell us they love Transit, and we are making it even better for the 2017 model year.”
Other new available features include heated cloth and leather driver and passenger seats; high-capacity upfitter switches that include heavy-duty alternator, auxiliary fuse box, modified vehicle wiring system, dual heavy-duty batteries, and interface connector; rearview mirror for Transit cutaway models; and passenger-side power running board for models without dual sliding side doors.
Orders can be placed online beginning on April 4, with deliveries expected to begin in September.
Ford will also continue to sell its E-Series stripped chassis and cutaway models, now with a 6.2-liter V8 engine available mid-year for 2017 models. The 6.8-liter V10 will remain the standard engine.
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