Ford has been making the Transit Van for 45 years now, and is introducing various new models to celebrate, as well as launching updates to the existing range.

Two new ‘Leader’ models have been added to the range in response to demand from retail customers.

The Transit Leader is priced at £11,995, and is a low roof, 260 short wheelbase van. It comes fitted with a 2.2-litre TDCi engine with 85PS. Cargo stowage rails and Bluetooth connectivity are available as options. The Transit Connect Leader is a standard 200 short wheelbase van, and has a 1.8-litre 75PS engine.

Mark Simpson, Ford of Britain marketing director, said:  "Transit has become more accessible with the arrival of Transit Leader and Transit Connect Leader for customers looking for the best possible proposition."

Other new models include new 14 and 17 seat minibuses, and a limited edition SportVan in Colorado Red, which comes with a DAB radio as standard, along with air conditioning, cruise control and tinted glass. Production is limited to 100.

Additionally, from September, all rear-wheel-drive transits from 100PS-200PS will come with a six speed gearbox as standard, which will deliver improved mpg and CO2 figures.

Finally, a new Transit Tipper is available from £26,726. The new model features improved payload, lower loading height, and cheaper running costs over the old model.

To check out the latest Ford van reviews, come to the Fleet News van reviews page.