New Ford Transit comes with active parking assist technology to reduce driver parking stress

Parking a vehicle more than a metre longer than a Mondeo wagon on a crowded street or in a loading dock is a nightmare, and even on a speed bump, parking such a vehicle could cost a business time and money in repairs, and could increase insurance premiums, especially if it hits another vehicle.

However, the new Ford Transit uses an advanced technology called Active Park Assist, which can not only reduce the stress of parking, but also avoid losing money due to parking obstacles. The technology can help the driver find a parking space of the right size, and then automatically drive the vehicle into the parking space while the driver controls the accelerator and brake. The technology can make parking easier, such as parallel parking in a loading dock, or parking end to end with other vehicles in a space 0.8 meters longer than the vehicle.

Transit models are also equipped with Park-Out Assist, Cross Traffic Alert, Side Sensing System and front and rear wide-angle cameras to help drivers when they need to maneuver the vehicle out of a space or navigate in congested urban environments.

Available on the latest Transit and Transit Custom models introduced in 2019, Active Park Assist technology uses 12 ultrasonic sensors mounted around the vehicle to allow the vehicle to park alongside another parked vehicle, even when there is no kerb, and is also capable of parking on slopes.

Active Park Assist also includes Exit Assist, which automatically maneuvers the vehicle out of a parking space while the driver controls the accelerator and brake.

When the driver is pulling out of a parking lot, the Cross Traffic Alert system warns them if other vehicles and cyclists may soon pass behind them.

Additionally, the side sensing system provides audible and visual warnings to alert the driver to nearby obstacles to assist when maneuvering at low speeds.

Transit's front and rear wide-angle cameras give the driver a wide view, making it easier to spot approaching vehicles, pedestrians or cyclists in blind spots, when exiting a parking space or driveway. The rearview camera is mounted above the van's door, providing better visibility when backing up, especially when the rear doors are open.

The latest electric and connected Ford Transit and Transit Custom vans were launched in 2019. The new Ford Transit weighs 2 tons, can carry more cargo, uses less fuel, and is easier to drive and operate than previous models. In addition, the vehicle is equipped with a highly fuel-efficient EcoBlue diesel powertrain (including EcoBlue Hybrid 48V technology) and innovative driver assistance features.

The improved Ford Transit Custom weighs 1 ton and is equipped with Ford's latest EcoBlue and new EcoBlue hybrid systems, as well as existing technologies such as the FordPass Connect on-board modem, which can help operators maximize vehicle efficiency and utilization. (All pictures in the article are from fleetpoint.org)