Custom-built caravans, especially those suitable for off-road use, are becoming a growing market. Ford wants to make joining this #vanlife trend more accessible with the Transit Trail, an off-road version of the Transit commercial van. Don’t think of this move as Ford starting to produce a ready-to-use camper. Whether you hire a third-party camper builder or do it yourself, they aim to provide the most capable essential vehicle to get you up and running.
With this Transit Trail, Ford is addressing the time-consuming, expensive, and specialized knowledge-intensive “scary parts” of making vans. Ford‘s off-road suspension saves you money on a third-party product you might try to procure yourself. It ensures that the suspension process is carried out safely and under warranty. Since it is a factory-exit feature, it works in full compliance with the vehicle’s driver assistance technology.
By adding a roof ventilation fan, Ford wants you to avoid having to drill through the roof yourself and add a ventilation fan. They also configure the electrical system to power additional accessories using an Upfitter Pack. No matter how you outfit the interior, the Transit Trail will be a stock Ford vehicle that can be repaired through Ford‘s network of more than 3,000 dealers and service centers.
The Transit Trail uses Ford‘s 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft (542 Nm) of torque in this configuration. This engine pairs wonderfully with Ford’s Intelligent AWD system, which offers a 10-speed automatic transmission and five driving modes, including Mud/Ruts. Transit Trail is available in medium and high-roof versions. You can also opt for an elongated high-roof model. With the Heavy Duty Tow package, Transit Trail can easily tow approximately 6,500 pounds (3 tons) of weight.
Ride height is increased by 3.5 inches with 2.25 inches of suspension lift and larger 30.5-inch Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse off-road tires. The total ground clearance for the Transit Trail is 6.7 inches (17 cm). Appearance modifications include a black grille, 16-inch black alloy wheels, splash guards, and a beautiful front bumper. Click here if you want more information.
