Ford is unveiling yet another variation of its Transit Connect minivan at the New York Auto Show. Unlike previous versions shown that were primarily targeted toward business and commercial use, this one is aimed squarely at families.
Among the features on the concept car are twin bulkhead-mounted sunshade screens that also double as projector screens, built-in hand sanitizer and sunscreen dispensers, a walkie-talkie radio docking station charger, an integrated first-aid kit, and cargo door-mounted folding twin scooters. Similar to Ford's Work Solutions commerical packages, the Family One concept employs radio frequency identification technology to keep track of items.
Although the Family One concept is powered by the same 2.0-liter I-4 engine as in other U.S.-spec Transit Connects, the press release hints at other powertrain options in the future, including EcoBoost and battery electric propulsion, which is planned for the commercial-spec Transit Connect.
Our Take: Although many are expecting that some version of the Focus-based C-Max will come to the States soon, Ford could be taking a multi-pronged approach to family transport, with a TC-based vehicle possibly in the cards.