The new Ford Transit Custom has become the first vehicle of its kind to receive a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP.
After being subjected to new heavy vehicle crash tests by the independent vehicle safety organisation, the van achieved best–in-class marks for child protection, adult protection and safety features.
The vehicle scored 77 per cent overall and secretary general of Euro NCAP Michiel van Ratingen said the new Transit Custom is "undoubtedly setting a high standard".
According to Ford, the one-tonne van was put through 4,500 virtual crash simulations and 30 physical crash tests during development.
In addition, the vehicle's Lane Keeping Alert technology has seen it become the recipient of the first ever Euro NCAP Advanced reward for technology available on a commercial vehicle.
This feature causes the steering wheel to vibrate and triggers an alert in the display cluster to warn the driver if the van starts to drift out of its lane on the motorway.
Barb Samardzich, vice president of product development for Ford of Europe, claimed the vehicle "redefines safety in its sector".
She added: "We've combined a high strength steel structure, a pedestrian-friendly front end and segment-leading safety technologies to create a van that provides the best protection available – something fleet customers and owner operators will appreciate."
The Ford Tourneo Custom people carrier could prove attractive to motorists seeking new Ford deals as well, as it has also been awarded the five-star rating from Euro NCAP.
Ford recently enjoyed a triple success at the 2013 Fleet Van Awards, where the Ford Ranger won in the pick-up of the year and the overall commercial vehicle of the year categories. The company was also named green manufacturer of the year.
Fleet Van praised the cab options, choice of efficient engines, payload and towing ability, equipment levels and appearance of the Ford Ranger.
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Posted by George Davis