Ford Transit, Dodge ProMaster, Chevrolet Express, Mercedes Sprinter and Nissan NV
Learn more about the most common vehicles used for camper, wheelchair and conversion vans
There is a new player in town when it comes to the Full Size van game. Ford has just released its 2015 Transit, replacing the archaic Econoline. Vans are a means of transportation for caterers, masons, concrete layers, florists, electricians and countless other vital types of work. The Econoline has been a well trusted name in the commercial organizations field but not without its faults. Ford hopes the new Transit will become the name these companies go to when in need of transportation.
So what makes the Transit so evolved from the Econoline? For starters the Econolines’ awkward tiny double doors which cause you to bang your head are a thing of the past. The transits load floor is barley more than knee high with a huge side door. Hitting your head along the way is practically impossible. The raucous rattle and harsh ride is a thing of the past. Ford Transit handles extremely smooth rides. Ford replaces the Econolines ‘prison cell’ like windows with ones that are actually made to be looked out of. The seats are supported and covered with durable fabric allowing for you to relax inside.
Aside from increased comfort, functionality remained in mind with Ford’s new Transit.
According to Transit Assistant Program Manager Milton Wong, the combinations of customizations are nearly endless. Three wheelbase lengths are offered. These wheelbases come in 130-inch, 148-inch and 148-inch with an extended body. Cargo van volumes range from 246.7cu.ft. (130-in.regular wheelbase with low roof) to 487.3.cu.ft. (148-in.long wheelbase/extended body and high roof). Three van/wagon roof heights are available in low, medium and high. A passenger standing 6ft.5in can be accommodated. Configurations covering 8-,10-,12 and 15- passenger seating are available.
In addition to having the outstanding ability to efficiently transport cargo and passengers, the 2015 Transit is up to date with the 21st century’s modern needs. Compared with the previous Ford full-size van, the all-new Transit Wagon offers higher fuel economy ratings for the cost-conscious business. Ford offers a 3.5L EcoBoost* V6 (as compared to the previous E-series 6.8L V10 gas engine in EPA-estimated highway mpg by 46%). The 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 offered, surpasses the E-Series standard (4.6L V8 gas engine in EPA-estimated highway mpg by 19%).
Ford Transit offers responsive power with impressive fuel efficiency. With 275 horsepower and 260lb.ft-of torque, who’s not impressed? E85 flex-fuel capabilities of E85 (up to 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline), or any mix of the two is available. The Gaseous Engine Prep Package is available for conversion to compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquid propane gas (LPG). The Transit was designed with keeping business costs on fuel and the environment in mind.
SYNC* technology is available in all Ford Transits. Voice-activated SYNC* technology keeps you connected while allowing you to keep your eyes on the road and your hands at the wheel. SYNC* allows for hands-fee calling, voice-activated commands, 911 Assist* and access to all of your useful mobile apps with SYNC AppLinktm.
With all that the 2015 Ford Transit has to offer in mind, let’s take the time to compare it with other full size vans available. Dodge ProMaster, Chevrolet Express, Mercedes Sprinter and Nisan NV are all similar concepts.
| Ford Transit | Chevy Express | Mercedes Sprinter | Dodge Pro Master | Nissan NV | |
| Vehicle type | Front engine, rear wheel drive, 2-15 passengers, 3-4 door van | Front engine, two wheel drive, all wheel drive | Front engine, four-wheel drive, 2-12 passenger, 2-4 door van | Front engine, four-wheel drive, 2 passenger, 4 door van | Front engine, rear-wheel drive, 2 passenger, 4 door van |
| Base price | $30,560 | $22,950 | $44,475-$48,475 | $28,530 | $31,470 |
| Engines | Turbocharged DOHC 20 valve diesel 3.2 liter in-line, 185 hp,350lb-ft.twin turbocharged and innercooled DOHC 24 valve, 3.5L V6, 310hp,400lb-ft.;DOHC 24-valve3.7literV-6,275hp,260lbft. | Extremely varied: 323hp, 6.0L, V-8 (3500 LS) | Turbocharged and innercooled DOHC 24 valve diesel V6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection. | DOHC 24 Valve, V6, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection | DOHC 32 valve V8, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic with manual shifting mode | 4-speed automatic | 5-speed automatic with manual shifting mode | 6-speed automatic with manual shifting mode | 5-speed automatic |
| Dimensions | Wheelbase(130in-148in/extended)Length:219.9-266.1 inWidth:81-82 inHeight:83.5-110 in
Curb Weight:5750lb |
Varies across packages | Wheelbase (144.3-170.3in)Length: 233.3-289.8 inWidth: 79.7 inHeight: 100.2-124 in
Curb Weight: 5400-6400lb |
Wheelbase (136 in)Length: 213.1inWidth: 82.7 inHeight: 101 in
Weight: 6220 lb |
Wheelbase (146.1)Length 240.6 in.Width: 79.9Height: 105 in
Curb Weight:6220lb |
| Performance | Zero to 60 mph: 8.3-11.5 secTop speed: 93 mph | Varies across packages | Zero to 60 mph: 11.2-11.8 secTop speed:82mph | Zero to 60: 8.1secTop speed:99mph | Zero to 60:8.4 secTop Seed:100mph |
| Fuel Economy | City/hwy: 14/19mpg | 24/26mpg(varies) | 16.2 combined mpg | 24/29mpg | 24/25mpg |
The particular van you want is every bit as important as choosing the amenities that go into it. Many of us are brand loyal to Fords or Chevys, while another group is more interested in value, reliability and so on. We’re excited that Ford has come out with a new generation van for conversions, and hope it encourages other manufacturers to continue building durable van.
To learn more, continue browsing our site, or contact us to discuss your transportation needs today.