Ford will replace its E Series (LCV) by the Transit
- The Ford E-Series (Econoline) is a range of commercial vehicles of the American manufacturer marketed in North America since 1961 through four different generations and available in various wheelbases. This model is at least as famous in the United States as the Ford F-Series pickup, the most produced vehicle on the planet.
- In line with its new strategy of "global models", Ford will replace the E-Series utility family which has come to the end of its life cycle (like its rival the Chevrolet Express) by the Transit commercial range already sold in 120 foreign markets.
- The Transit ( high-volume) will replace the Ford E-Series model, while the Transit Connect (small volume) will replace the American Ford range of commercial vehicles, widening the range downwards. Both models will be marketed in the United States in the second half of 2014. The Transit Connect will be available with a 4-cylinder engine, while the Transit will be equipped with engines of 5 and 6 cylinders. These models will be produced in the U.S. plant of Lorain, the current production site of the E Series.
- Although the E-Series range has been one of the best selling ranges of Ford in the segment of light commercial vehicles, replacing it with the Transit is a calculated risk. Indeed, since its launch, the Transit has sold more than 7 million units worldwide. Regarding the E-Series range, it sold 125 000 units in North America in 2013. According to the manufacturer, the volume of Transit annual sales should settle in this region at 140 000 units per year.
