Ford is introducing a new 5.0-tonne Transit; its heaviest-rated and most capable van to date thanks to significant mechanical upgrades.

The new flagship Transit has a 5,000kg gross vehicle mass (GVM) and net payload of up to 2,383kg on the panel van

The new flagship model will be available as a panel van or chassis cab with a 5,000kg gross vehicle mass (GVM) and net payload of up to 2,383kg on panel van – up by more than 300kg on the standard van – or 2,558kg on the factory-fitted flatbed. It’s also offered with a choice of three wheelbases, four frame lengths, and single- or double-cabs with seating for up to seven occupants including driver.

All 5.0-tonne Transit variants are rear-wheel drive and fitted with Ford’s HDT powertrain. The 170hp 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine produces up to 390Nm of torque and is married up with a six-speed manual gearbox or 10-speed automatic transmission, designed to improve efficiency and driving experience.

In addition, 5.0-tonne Transit introduces to Europe for the first time an uprated 3,500kg rear axle already seen in North American Transit models. If specified with the 10-speed automatic gearbox, a new 2,100kg front axle is also fitted, which brings an additional 225kg load capacity over the standard version.

Ford says the increased GVM and payload will support heavy-duty operators in utilities and construction, while opening up significant conversion potential for the emergency services and public transport, such as box body ambulances and police riot or command/control vehicles, backed by Ford’s Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) network of 165 converters in 13 countries.

The new Transit’s increased capabilities are backed by uprated suspension, driveline and brakes. The chassis features upgraded hub assemblies, wheels and wider 205mm rear tyres, as well as new uprated brakes on the rear axle, making light work of heavier loads. Panel vans also benefit from reinforced upper body structures and ancillaries to support greater cargo weights.

The new model carries over latest interior design, driver assistance and connectivity features introduced to the Transit family in 2019. This includes Ford’s latest SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system, and the Upfitter Interface Module that provide enhanced capabilities for converted vehicles.

It also offers connectivity features to help operators to plan maintenance and oversee vehicle security. A FordPass Connect modem features as standard, allowing over-the-air software updates to minimise dealer visits and displaying key information such as vehicle location, oil life and tyre pressures through the FordPass Pro app. For larger fleets, FordPass Connect brings indepth vehicle data when using the Ford Telematics system to support more effective fleet management and optimisation.