Ford Motor Co. has announced that Stamford, CT-based cable operator Charter Communications is one of the first large fleets to order the OEM’s new full-size Transit van, which went on sale in June as a 2015 model.
Charter, which ranks as the fourth-largest cable operator in the U.S., has ordered more than 800 low-roof, regular-wheelbase Transits for its mobile technicians. The vans will be used to transport equipment for installing and servicing Internet, TV and phone services at customers’ homes in 29 states.
“Charter Communications’ choice of the low-roof-model Ford Transit allows its installers the ability to maneuver in tight parking spaces and garages, while offering almost 56 in of cargo height with rear cargo doors that open up to 180 degrees for easy loading and unloading,” said Kevin Koswick, director of Ford North American Fleet, Lease and Remarketing Operations.
According to Ford, Charter placed its order after conducting an extensive review of available full-size vans and selected the Transit “due to its superior fuel economy and cargo space.”
The OEM noted that the fleet also considered “upfitting convenience” in making its decision. The Transit is built near Kansas City, MO, which is home base for Charter’s equipment installer, Auto Truck.
“Charter is excited to be adding the Ford 2015 Transit van to our fleet,” said Kathy Carrington, Charter’s senior vp of Corporate Services at Charter.
“The handling, safety features, cargo space and fuel efficiency were all contributing factors to our choice and our technicians will be well equipped to serve our customers with these trucks,” she remarked.
