Ford Introduces Its Versatile, Fuel-Efficient 2014 Transit Van Family

As businesses continue to look for more fuel-efficient and practical means of transportation, global sales of commercial vehicles are expected to grow by 4.8 million units in the next five years. Ford is hoping to take advantage of that lucrative market following the recent introduction of its redesigned 2014 Ford Transit Connect and its all-new full-size 2014 Transit, both of which are slated to go on sale in the United States later in 2013.

Receiving the sleek front end of the Ford Escape crossover and a new optional 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine, the 2014 Transit Connect compact cargo van ramps up both style and cost savings compared to the previous generation. While the EcoBoost is expected to help the vehicle return more than 30 mpg on the highway, the standard 2.5-liter powerplant can also be outfitted with a compressed natural gas and liquid propane gas (CNG/LPG) prep package, catering to those business owners who want to bypass volatile gas prices entirely.

“The next-generation Transit Connect will use the latest drivetrain technology to improve upon the already impressive fuel economy of the current model, and it will do so while looking and feeling more like a stylish crossover than a van,” said Alan Melkonian, owner and general manager of Stoneham Ford, a Greater Boston Ford dealer. “At the same time, Ford is offering several different configurations to meet the unique needs of small businesses and fleet owners, which means greater cost savings through increased productivity.”

Available in two wheelbase lengths, as well as with or without the second row of seats, the 2014 Transit Connect features surprising capability despite its nimble ride, including a 1,600-pound maximum payload, more than 130 cubic feet of cargo space and a newly available 2,000-pound towing capacity. Meanwhile, useful technology options like a rearview camera, a 6.5-inch touchscreen with navigation and the SYNC with MyFord Touch infotainment system help drivers’ daily tasks go more smoothly.

Even in its current form, the Ford Transit Connect remains a popular choice for businesses, with sales of the small van rising 12 percent through November year-over-year in the United States. Another in-demand Ford commercial vehicle, the E-Series, has seen its sales increase 6 percent during that same time period. After 33 years as America’s best-selling commercial van, the E-Series will be replaced by the Ford Transit next fall.

Recognizing that it would be no easy task to follow up a class leader, Ford has made its 2014 Transit as much as 25 percent more fuel efficient than its predecessor. Buyers will have a variety of choices for saving on gas costs, including an optional 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 and an all-new 3.2-liter Power Stroke Diesel unit, as well as a gas-powered standard 3.7-liter V6 that can also be made compatible with a CNG/LPG package. Like the Transit Connect, the Transit is designed for versatility, featuring a choice of two wheelbases, three roof heights, three body lengths, and cutaway, van, chassis cab and wagon configurations.

“It takes a lot to replace a popular, instantly recognizable vehicle like the E-Series, but when you look at the specs of the Transit, it becomes clear that the van segment is about to take a huge leap forward,” added Melkonian. “The powerful-yet-efficient EcoBoost and diesel options will provide all of the E-Series’ capability, but with an improved ride that is lighter in the turns, as well as lighter on the wallet.”

Ford Gets Edge in Fuel Economy

STONEHAM, Mass. -- The 2011 Ford Edge will live up to its name among fuel-conscious Massachusetts drivers, thanks to a fuel economy rating recently issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In EPA tests, the Ford Edge SEL achieved 19 mpg in city driving and 27 mpg on the highway, for a combined fuel economy average of 22 mpg.

Greater Boston Ford Edge owners will be able to boast best-in-class fuel economy among domestic crossover utility vehicles, and a best-in-class 285-horsepower V-6 engine. Hyundai's Santa Fe squeaked ahead in EPA tests with a combined 23 mpg but trails the Edge in horsepower at 276.

Santa Fe buyers will also pay a premium for the stronger V-6 engine, as the 2011 model ships with a standard V-4. A 3.5 liter V-6 comes standard with the Ford Edge, and a larger 3.7 liter V-6 capable of 305 horsepower is available in the 2011 Ford Edge Sport.

"Ford continues to shatter the stereotype of the boxy, gas-guzzling utility vehicle," said General Manager Alan Melkonian of Stoneham Ford, a Massachusetts Ford dealer. "A crossover obviously won't get the 40 miles per gallon of the Ford Fiesta, but the new Ford Edge proves that you can have the space your family needs and the performance to enjoy the ride without having to stop at every gas station."

Along with improved fuel economy, Ford has built class-leading design, safety and comfort into its 2011 Edge crossover. The distinctive, flare-sided body provides enough room for 5 adults and 32 cubic feet of cargo room. With the rear seats folded, cargo capacity jumps to nearly 70 cubic feet, just 10 feet less than the larger Ford Explorer.

With Ford AdvanceTrac and Roll Stability Control, available adaptive cruise control, rear-view camera and cross-traffic alert, the Ford Edge is prepared to handle any obstacle on the roads of Massachusetts. The available Panoramic Vista Roof will let front and rear-seat passengers enjoy the changing New England seasons from new angles on the road.

"This is a family-first crossover that Ford has packed with its most innovative features," Melkonian said. "It won't make the kids stop saying, 'Are we there yet?', but you'll be enjoying the ride too much to be bothered."

Stoneham Ford Stays Ahead of the Curve; Increases Supply of Popular Model

BOSTON, MASS (06/15/2010)(readMedia)— With fuel efficiency at the front of every car shopper’s mind, the demand for fuel-saving options is driving auto sales. Stoneham Ford, a premier Greater Boston Ford dealer, is responding by increasing its collection of 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid models. The 2010 Fusion earned Motor Trend’s 2010 Car of the Year honors and, with the gas-sipping hybrid version among the elite eco-friendly cars on the market, Stoneham Ford is anticipating continued strong demand in the region for this fresh, innovative Ford model.

“The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid is a jetsetter in green technology,” said Stoneham Ford General Manager Alan Melkonian. “Boston Ford lovers are discovering that they don’t need to sacrifice performance and fun to drive a green car. The Fusion has been a hit for us, and we just ordered more to make sure we have them in stock all summer.”

Under the hood of the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid is a 2.5L Duratec I-4 hybrid engine that earns the mid-size sedan up to 41 mpg city. Ford’s innovative Regenerative Braking System converts heat from brake friction into energy for the battery-powered electric motor, which can bring the Fusion up to an impressive 47 mph by itself. The gas motor kicks in for quick acceleration or reaching higher speeds, and the resulting efficiency means a possible 700 miles between tanks of gas.

The Fusion Hybrid also meets the highest emissions standards, earning the titles of Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV) and Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PSEV). Adding to the Fusion’s environmental ethos are recycled cloth seats made from post-industrial materials that would otherwise be sitting in landfills.

The sustainable features of this model both inside and out have created a lot of buzz. Recently, safety and security product manufacturer SimplexGrinell ordered 200 Fusion Hybrids for their staff fleet. With the switch, they are expecting significant reductions in fuel costs and carbon emissions as a company.

The 2010 Fusion Hybrid promises to save customers money on gas and lower their environmental impact, but it also appeals as a high-performing, fun to drive vehicle.

“In the case of the Fusion Hybrid, fuel efficient does not mean weak performance,” said Melkonian. “Nobody wants to be caught on Route 128 or the Southeast Expressway in an underpowered car. At Stoneham Ford, we are very impressed with what Ford’s engineers have achieved with the Fusion Hybrid, so it’s exciting for us to see our customers get as enthusiastic about this car as we are.”