The Ford Transit began with Ford's Cologne-built light vans in the 1950s and took the Transit name in 1965. Over ensuing decades the vehicle grew into a family of vans - full-size Transit, Transit Custom and Transit Connect - offering multiple body styles, drivetrains and powertrains. Continuous refinements in packaging, engines and global production kept the Transit a mainstay of light commercial fleets.

Origins in Germany and a 1965 rebirth

The Transit traces back to light vans built in Cologne by Ford's German operations in the 1950s, including small models often identified as FK-series vans. In 1965 Ford launched the Transit nameplate in Europe, creating a flexible platform designed for cargo, passengers and conversions.

Why the Transit mattered

The Transit combined a simple, serviceable chassis with many body styles: panel vans, pickups, minibuses and crew cabs. That variety made it a favorite for trades, fleets and conversions. Over the decades the Transit also became a shorthand in Europe for vans of that size.

Evolution through the decades

  • Late 1960s-1970s: Early Transit models established the basic shape and multiple wheelbase/body options. Collaboration between Ford's European operations helped standardise parts and broaden the line-up.
  • Late 1970s-1980s: Designers extended the nose and increased interior space. Stronger engines and heavier-duty variants (including police and commercial chassis) expanded the Transit's appeal.
  • 1980s-1990s: Styling and aerodynamics were refined. Windscreen and bonnet profiles were modernised and interior packaging improved for comfort and load capacity.
  • 1990s-2000s: More powerful engines, air conditioning options and a wider spread of diesel choices appeared. Ford introduced models with front-wheel-drive layouts alongside traditional rear-wheel-drive versions to offer lower load floors and different payload balances.
  • 2000s-2010s: The Transit family split into distinct ranges - full-size Transit, Transit Custom (mid-size) and Transit Connect (compact) - so buyers could choose more precisely for their work needs. Ford also globalised the Transit, introducing a North American version in the 2010s and building Transits in plants outside Europe.1

Today

The Transit remains one of Ford's core commercial vehicles, offered in multiple lengths, roof heights and drivetrains (including diesel, petrol, mild-hybrid and fully electric variants across the wider Transit family). Production and assembly happen in several countries to serve local markets.2

Legacy

From Cologne-built light vans to a global line-up, the Transit's longevity comes from modularity and continual updates. It kept the same intent over six decades: a practical, adaptable work vehicle that fleets and small businesses can configure for many roles.
  1. Confirm year and exact model designation of the Cologne FK-series van (often cited as FK1000) and its 1950s production dates.
  2. Verify the specific role and timing of Henry Ford II or Ford corporate actions in unifying British and German Ford operations that affected Transit development.
  3. Confirm when Ford first offered front-wheel-drive Transit variants and the timeline of drivetrain options.
  4. List current production locations for Transit models and which plants build which variants (e.g., Kocaeli, Turkey; Kansas City, USA).
  5. Verify awards claimed for Transit models (International Van of the Year and the exact years, if any).

FAQs about Transit Vans

When did the Ford Transit name first appear?
Ford introduced the Transit name in Europe in 1965, building on earlier light vans produced by Ford in Germany during the 1950s.
How many versions of the Transit exist today?
The Transit family now includes full-size Transit, mid-size Transit Custom and compact Transit Connect models, offered in multiple wheelbases and roof heights as well as different drivetrains.
Is the Transit produced outside Europe?
Yes. Ford builds Transit models in several countries to serve regional markets, including plants outside Europe.
Has the Transit been available with electric powertrains?
Yes. In recent years Ford has introduced electrified versions across the Transit line, including battery-electric and mild-hybrid variants in some markets.
Why did the Transit become so popular?
Its popularity stems from modular body options, adaptable load space, multiple drivetrains and continuous updates that kept it relevant to trades, fleets and conversion markets.

News about Transit Vans

Ford Transit Custom Sport Van quick review: this really gets a (house) move on - Driven Car Guide [Visit Site | Read More]

VTR is back! Citroen’s performance brand returns – on a van - Auto Express [Visit Site | Read More]

Beloved by bands and bank robbers, the Ford Transit turns 60 - BBC [Visit Site | Read More]

Transit’s 60 Years in Numbers Show How This Van Means Business - Ford From the Road [Visit Site | Read More]

Leighton Vans secures GB Whole Vehicle Type Approval for Ford Transit LV-RF model - FleetPoint [Visit Site | Read More]

Ford Transit Custom UK’s Best Selling Van Of September 2025 - Ford Authority [Visit Site | Read More]

Britain wants to launch large drones from Transit vans - UK Defence Journal [Visit Site | Read More]