FV: Tell us a bit about any new launches in the coming months?

SC: We continue to create the special products that are our one of our main strengths. A new Transit Tipper is on the way and on Transit’s birthday I announced new Transit models to take us to the end of the year (see p14).

FV: We reported that the EU is proposing to require speed limiters on vans of 3.5 tonnes gvw so they can’t exceed 120kph (74.2mph). How will this affect production (and price) of Transit?

SC: Ford already offers a 70mph speed limiter to its customers.

There have been a number of large fleets who have already adopted this technology recognising the benefit in increasing efficiency and reducing fuel consumption of the vehicles, as well as increasing road safety for their employees.

Our manufacturing structures are well prepared if the EU does propose speed limiters on vans of 3.5 tonnes.

Speed limiters are available as an option on Transit from £47.

FV: The EU is also clamping down on CO2 levels emitted from vans, so that a range average of 175g/km must be achieved from 2014 to 2016. What will this mean to Ford? Will you have to make major modifications to your engines and if so, will the customer end up paying for them?

SC: Currently, Ford produces the Fiesta van ECOnetic which claims the lowest CO2 figures in its segment, 98g/km with a combined fuel economy of 76.3mpg.

We also produce the larger Transit Econetic which currently claims the lowest average CO2 figures in its class – 189g/km with a combined fuel economy of 39.2mpg.

The development of the Econetic brand has meant the rapid invention of new technologies and features, including the gear-shift indicator light, speed limiter device, aerodynamic wheels and low rolling resistance tyres – all continuing to improve efficiency while lowering CO2.

Sustainability has influenced not only commercial vehicle development but also the manufacturing facilities.

We are starting to see new and improved engine line-ups, including the new range of Duratorq diesel engines and the frugal EcoBoost petrol engines.

Fiesta SportVan has just been recognized with an award as the top “Green Van” by Thatcham.