For Amazon drivers and family men

Europe's most popular van is going into the next round. In the one-ton class, the Transit Custom developed in the UK has been the bestseller since 2015. It was even the best-selling car there for a time. The latest generation is now being launched with two wheelbases and three drive concepts: diesel, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and, next year, battery electric (BEV).

Ford's expertise in single-ton trucks has apparently also convinced Volkswagen: The successor to the VW Transporter T 6.1 will be based on the Transit Custom and will be produced together with it at Ford's Turkish plant from 2024.

The diesel variants are real towing vehicles: They can take up to 2.8 tons of towing capacity on the hook. Plug-in hybrids and the battery-electric version can still tow 2.3 tons. The classic variants are available in four power ratings from 110 to 170 hp, with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission, and with front- and all-wheel drive. The diesels are already rolling off the production line. The Transit Custom PHEV can already be ordered and will start rolling out to customers next spring. The all-electric e-Transit Custom will follow in summer 2024.

Digital solutions are designed to make life easier for drivers of courier and delivery services. They have to get off and on up to 200 times a day to deliver packages. The special "Delivery Assist" automates many repetitive actions that are necessary during such stops: Turn on the hazard lights, activate the parking brake, lock the doors after exiting and close the windows. When the driver returns, the doors and windows are opened again without a key and the engine is started. The friendly helper saves 20 seconds on each delivery, which can add up to 30 to 60 minutes a day. Amazon drivers will love it. Delivery Assist will be available in October 2024.

In addition to the van variant, the Transit is also available as a nine-seat Tourneo Custom - and for the first time, a mix between the two. As a Multicab, the Transit Custom can be seated with up to five passengers, with a partition to the cargo area.

Prices for the Transit Custom start from €42,304, for the Tourneo Custom from €52,014. Equipment options such as a panoramic glass roof or a B&O audio system underscore the Tourneo's passenger car character. A camper version with a pop-up high roof will also be available: The Nugget has again been developed together with Westfalia. (aum/gr)