Ford’s received the first big fleet order for the new 2015 Transit van, which went on sale in June.
Technicians for the fourth-largest cable operator in the United States, Charter Communications, will soon get behind the wheel of the new Transits. The cable company recently ordered more than 800 low-roof, regular-wheelbase vans with the standard 3.7-liter Ti-VCT gasoline V6 engine.
These vehicles are used to transport equipment for installing and servicing Internet, TV and phone customer homes across 29 states.
“Charter Communications’ choice of the low-roof-model Ford Transit allows its installers the ability to maneuver in tight parking spaces and garages, while offering almost 56 inches of cargo height with rear cargo doors that open up to 180 degrees for easy loading and unloading,” says Kevin Koswick, director, Ford North American Fleet, Lease and Remarketing Operations.
After an extensive review of available full-size vans, Charter selected Ford Transit due to its superior fuel economy and cargo space, according to Ford.
Upfitting convenience was also a factor. The new Transit is built near Kansas City, Mo., home to Charter equipment installer Auto Truck.
When the Charter team drove Transit at a March ride-and-drive event, the van’s handling, tight turning radius and panoramic windshield view sealed the deal.
“Charter is excited to be adding the Ford 2015 Transit Van to our fleet,” said Kathy Carrington, SVP of Corporate Services at Charter. “The handling, safety features, cargo space and fuel efficiency were all contributing factors to our choice and our technicians will be well equipped to serve our customers with these trucks.”
