Six millionth transit produced by Ford

Basildon Council has today congratulated Ford Motor Company on the production of its 6 millionth transit.

The legendary Transit commercial vehicle is once more making headlines after the six-millionth example rolled off the production line today at the Ford-Otosan plant in Kocaeli, Turkey.

  "With six million units now produced and a 45-year life so far, Transit is not only the longest-serving model in Ford of Europe's product portfolio, but throughout that time it has been a major pillar of our profitable business in Europe, and is one of the most successful commercial vehicles in automotive history," said John Fleming, Ford of Europe Chairman and CEO.

"We are very proud that the Transit name has become synonymous with vans in many markets around the world and we fully intend that it will continue to build on that iconic status into the future," Fleming added.

Right from its launch in 1965, Transit has lived up to its reputation as a durable, practical and versatile tool for professional customers, consistently offering the latest commercial vehicle technologies combined with high levels of durability and safety, car-like comfort and driving quality and low cost of ownership.

In August 2010, the Ford Transit will pass another key milestone as it will celebrate its 45^th birthday.

"The Ford Transit has a superb heritage and an even brighter future. We'll keep counting and we will keep reminding the world that Transit remains true its heritage and its hard-won reputation," Fleming said.

Bala Mahendran, Chief Executive of Basildon Council said:  "We are proud to have such a respected and successful global company like Ford Motor Company in Basildon, and congratulate them on the production of the 6 millionth transit.   

" The research and development for this legendary commercial vehicle takes place at the Dunton Technical Centre in Basildon, and we are proud of this achievement.  The transit is the backbone of small businesses, and we see Basildon as the home of entrepreneurs.

" We are also very proud that one in four Ford engines around the world is made in Basildon."