The new Ford Transit that was recently launched in Australia has been awarded the prestigious title of 'International Van of the Year 2007' at an award ceremony in Germany.

The 'Van of the Year' jury, which comprises an independent panel of commercial vehicle journalists representing 19 European countries, awarded the new Ford Transit the 2007 trophy in what was described as "one of the closest fought 'Van of the Year' battles ever."

"2006 has been a bumper year for new light and medium commercial vehicles which has made this competition tougher than ever and this award even more significant for Ford Transit," said John Fleming, President and CEO, Ford of Europe.

"We're delighted to follow up the success of the 2001 Transit and the 2003 Transit Connect in winning 'Van of the Year' trophies and it is appropriate reward and recognition for the dedication of so many Ford of Europe employees who contribute to the Transit story."

In its official statement, the 'Van of the Year' jury said: "In announcing the decision, the jury was particularly impressed by the fact that Ford’s engineers have taken one of Europe’s best vans and made it even better. Whether in city traffic or on motorways, the driveability of Transit is excellent."

The statement added: "The jury also appreciates the fact that the Ford designers and engineers maintain more than most other van manufacturers, permanent contacts with potential and existing purchasers in order to monitor constantly their wishes and needs."

This resulted in the fact that in the new Transit the cab interior has been brought up to a level approaching that of a car. The philosophy is that van-drivers often spend more hours in their vehicles than car drivers.

The high ergonomic standards do not only concern the driver’s seat and the position of steering wheel and gear lever but also include the excellent visibility via the large windows and the well positioned rear view mirrors."

Particular praise was forthcoming for the new features introduced on the latest Transit model.

"Constant monitoring of the wishes of van users also resulted in some other interesting improvements," noted the 'Van of the Year' jury statement.

"The dash mounted gear lever is an example of that, as is the self charging waterproof ignition key. Other examples are the addition of a new low-roof medium wheelbase variant and a new heavy duty front axle model."

Inherent Transit strengths were also highlighted by the jury. These included the accessibility and flexibility of the large load box, Transit's security systems and the cost-of-ownership equation including low repair and maintenance costs.

The latest Ford Transit model opens a new chapter in an impressive story for the iconic model and with more than five million built over the last forty years, Ford of Europe's Commercial Vehicle development team was determined to make the new model the best Transit ever.

As a result, the new Ford Transit has been substantially revised with significant changes aimed at offering the customer greater choice in terms of engines, bodywork options and equipment, higher levels of comfort, improved driving quality and a stylish, contemporary look all round.

Ford was also conscious that the van user should not be denied any of the comforts or features normally found in passenger cars. Therefore, many of the improvements have centred on improving equipment levels, ergonomics and convenience, as well as steering and handling.

"We are very proud of the Transit and its achievements over the last forty years," said Fleming.