In an effort to gauge consumer interest in the Transit Connect van as a potential replacement for the family minivan or SUV, Ford is showing a version called the Family One concept at the New York International Auto Show.
With added side windows, under-floor storage for a folding baby stroller, video screens for the kids in back, and sensors linked to a dashboard screen that can alert parents if a child seat is improperly installed, the Family One appears to be family ready. And better still, the in-dash screen can also let parents know if a wayward Rollerblade or some other piece of gear has been left behind, thanks to a radio frequency identification tag (RFID) inventory control system, like that used in the
Ford Works System. Electronic wizardry aside, the Transit Connect’s high ceiling, generous passenger room and cargo capacity relative to its small footprint, EPA fuel mileage estimate of 25 mpg highway, and $21,475 price tag should all make sense to non-commercial buyers. Seating for five will beavailable when it arrives this summer, but most non-commercial buyers will likely find the stock interior on the Spartan side.
It’ll be interesting to see whether buyers or aftermarket suppliers pursue adding a degree of personalization and more creature comforts to the Transit Connect. While Ford appears to be interested in seeing what develops, the carmaker seems unlikely to get creative with this people-hauling niche market until somebody else makes the first move.
But the possibilities are intriguing, and the Family One drew plenty of attention during the show’s media preview. In fact, it was among the most crowded show vehicles. You’d have to think customizers, young families who have outgrown their Scion xBs, and even motorhome makers all have their eye on the Transit Connect, too.
While the RV market implodes, could the Transit Connect be the basis for a conversion van revival?
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