Lots of uses for Ford's big van
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Ford's new Transit van is a roomier, more fuel efficient
Ford's new Transit van is a roomier, more fuel efficient replacement for the old E-Series, or Econoline, vans and they are finding new uses. Here, surfer Izzy Paskowitz uses one to transport surfboards and other equipment for a surfing program that helps kids with autism  Ford
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Lots of uses for Ford's big van
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When Ford introduced a European-style van to the U.S. market, it hoped it would find a broad base of buyers -- mostly business owners who customize it to fit their needs.
Now, it appears Ford has seen its wish come true. Transit is serving all kinds of business owners -- from plumbers to dog groomers to party van operators.
To make it work for as many businesses as possible, Ford says it offers Transit in 58 different configurations. Next year, it will have a dual sliding-door option. There's also a healthy aftermarket customizing base that's growing up around it -- converters who will transform the van to fit the needs of individual users.
Transit is the roomier, more fuel-efficient replacement for the Ford E-Series, or Econoline, van that has been around for decades. Though its roots may be European, Transit is being built at Ford's Kansas City Assembly plant.