Coach, Commercial, Minibus/Coach Finance

Ford have been hitting headlines recently with their pledge to create a fully electric Ford Transit by 2021. This is part of a wider development push for all Ford models, from Fiesta to Transit to be electrified in three years’ time.

2021 is still a long way off but fear not, Ford have been working hard to create an updated version of its large Transit van, with the new design teased at the IAA Commercial Vehicles Show in Hanover in September last year.

Although its not all new, there’s been changes made both outside and in, with options for a new engine and gearbox. It’s a definite upgrade from the existing model, with several technical changes revealed for the upgrade.

Ford’s new model will be more economic with fuel consumption, more powerful with a 185hp engine Minibuses are only available in 130ps and 170ps versions and uses a built in 4G modem providing improved connectivity to aid fleet management. The face lift which will give you a new dashboard from the Tourneo, different grille and some other minor changes. There’s also a new  ‘Limited’ High Specification version.

That’s just the inside, the van’s face lift has seen improvements to storage space within the van itself, making it an ideal option for transporting goods or tools or alternatively using as a personal service vehicle.

The newly introduced ‘Limited’ specification is a first for the full sized Transit line and mirrors that found on other Ford commercial products by offering a higher level of standard equipment to help the vehicle stand out from the crowd; 

Most noticeably, Bi-Xenon projector headlamps provide a significant boost to night-time visibility and feature Ford’s new LED daytime running light signature design which couples with the body coloured front bumper to give a premium look. Elsewhere the driver will be sure to notice the upgraded instrument cluster display and experience the benefits of a high power 170ps engine variant (which becomes a mandatory option at this level) that grants added flexibility across the rev range and aids progress when using the vehicle on challenging gradients, when fully laden or whilst towing.

Based on industry feedback, it’s clear that both driver and passenger expectations are rising year by year, and as such highly equipped versions of the Transit minibus will surely be more desirable come resale time – commanding higher residual values giving a proportional return on investment that makes choosing the Limited specification easier to justify. Regardless of specification or body variant chosen, the Mk8 Transit MCA Minibus offers the very best in it’s class. Take a look at the concept image below for an idea of the new design.




It’s likely to remain one of the best-selling commercial vehicles in the UK. With that said, David Fishwick Minibus Sales, whom CAVA have used as a trusted supplier for several years, have been working hard to convert and modify a range of their available Passenger Carrying Vehicles to suit the needs of the owner. Their most popular variation is an upgraded Ford Transit Mk8, which is ideally suited for PSV operation, with 10-17 passenger seat options available.

Fishwick’s have a wealth of experience and cater for everyone, offering wheelchair accessible and luxury conversions on many vehicles. Their quick turnaround and variety of stock are just two of the reasons CAVA works with the well-established company.

Ford paused production of their Transit in early Summer last year. Older 2.2L engines in a Transit wouldn’t support automatic breaking which is now mandatory on new minibuses, Ford’s updates bring them in line with new safety and EUROVI Emissions requirements.

The re-launch will be announced at the Commercial Vehicle Show, which runs from the 30^th of April to the 2^nd of May at the NEC in Birmingham. If you’d like to pre-order, contact CAVA today and we can discuss your requirements.