Arrival of Courier completes Ford LCV refresh

The recent arrival of the Ford Transit Courier Van now has Ford placed to take most advantage of a rebounding commercial vehicle market, writes Brian Byrne.

The smallest pure van in Ford's commercials range is a brand new offering, and gives the Transit family a product which will be of particular interest for urban service providers and self-employed contractors.

It is also being shown to a number of utilities in Ireland who have expressed an interest in the vehicle, according to Ford Ireland's brand manager Ciaran McMahon.

Speaking at the introduction of the vehicle to members of Ireland's commercial vehicle press, he said that the rebound in the LCV market is expected to continue. "We're in an excellent position to take advantage of this growth," he added. Van sales are currently up 36 percent year on year.

The Courier comes in two specification levels, with a choice between 75hp 1.5 and 96hp 1.6 diesel engines. Prices start at €13,990 for the Base version.

With a maximum payload of 660kg, the Courier provides 2.3 cu m of load capacity, some 10 percent more than competitors in the small van segment.

A pair of sliding side doors are available, and longer narrow loads can be carried by using access under the passenger seat.

The Trend version comes with significantly more specification, including Ford's SYNC communications system. Ciaran McMahon says this is likely to be the preferred version for the owner-operator.

The first Transit van arrived in Ireland during the 1960s. For most years since, the nameplate has dominated the LCV market in Ireland.

The introduction of the new generation Transit range began 18 months ago with the 1-tonne Transit Custom. This was followed this year by the Transit Connect and the 2-tonne full sized Transit.

Transit Connect prices start at €15,700, Transit Custom from €22,650.

Ciaran McMahon is pictured below with Eddie Murphy, chairman and MD of Ford Ireland.