World Record 201 Ford Transit in One Convoy for 60th Anniversary
Celebrating the 60th anniversary of the iconic van, Ford has brought together Transit owners from across the UK to create the largest van convoy in history. This event not only reflects the enduring legacy of the Ford Transit but also highlights the strong community of enthusiasts and businesses that have rallied around it.
The Record-Breaking Convoy of Ford Transits
In a remarkable achievement, a total of 201 Ford Transit vans participated in this historic convoy, officially setting a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the largest van convoy. The event was a testament to the passion and dedication of a diverse group of owners, businesses, and fans.
This milestone was made possible by a vibrant community that includes not only Transit owners but also dealers, builders, media representatives, Ford employees, and dedicated fans. Together, they showcased the rich history and versatility of the Ford Transit, which has become the best-selling commercial van worldwide.
Diverse Models on Display
The convoy featured a wide range of Transit models, from the original gasoline-powered versions to the modern E-Transit and Plug-in Hybrid Transit Custom. This variety underscores the evolution of the Transit lineup and its adaptability to meet the needs of various users, particularly as the industry moves towards electrification.
- First-generation gasoline models
- Modern electric models like the E-Transit
- Hybrid options such as the Transit Custom Plug-in Hybrid
Lisa Brankin, President and Managing Director of Ford UK and Ireland, remarked, “This record showcases the passion that the Transit generates and the versatility of the world's best-selling cargo van. Our Transit convoy illustrated the vast array of services enabled by Ford Pro and the van that has set the industry standard for six decades.”
A Celebration of Legacy and Innovation
The GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS certificate was presented by Carl Saville, an adjudicator for the organization, during the inaugural Transit Festival. This event celebrated not only the vehicle's rich heritage but also its loyal customer base and the innovative path forward for the Ford Transit.
Saville stated, “At GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS, we document the most incredible feats worldwide, and the record achieved by the ‘largest van convoy’ is a prime example, particularly as it honors the iconic Ford Transit, the right vehicle to set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORD.”
Community Participation and Recognition
The drivers who participated in this landmark event also became world record holders, receiving a special digital certificate to commemorate their achievement. Among the key figures in this success was Peter Lee, President of the Transit Van Club.
Lee expressed the profound impact that the Transit has had on people's lives over the past six decades, stating, “Transit has marked millions of lives in its 60 years of supporting businesses and communities, and each of those individuals is part of the story of this iconic van.”
He further added, “Transit has been a part of my life for a very long time, so being part of this record achievement is special to me. It’s a day I will never forget.”
The Route and the Festival
The impressive convoy gathered at the Ford Dunton Technical Centre in Essex, where the latest generations of the Transit are designed and developed. From there, the fleet embarked on a journey spanning 46 kilometers to the Transit Festival, held at the Chelmsford City Racecourse.
Over 2,500 registered attendees enjoyed a range of activities, games, and hands-on workshops aimed at helping small businesses and freelancers maximize their vehicle productivity. Topics addressed included:
- Tackling tool theft
- Utilizing social media for business growth
- Improving operational efficiency
A Look Back at the Ford Transit’s History
The first Ford Transit rolled off the production line on August 9, 1965, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey for this vehicle. Since then, over 13 million units have been produced globally. The Transit Custom has dominated the UK market as the best-selling van for 11 consecutive years, and at least one Transit model has led sales in the country for an impressive 59 years.
Year | Milestone |
---|---|
1965 | Launch of the first Ford Transit |
2021 | First electric model introduced (E-Transit) |
2025 | Projected electrification of the entire Transit line |
This remarkable celebration not only honored the past but also paved the way for a future filled with innovation and progress in the commercial vehicle sector. The Ford Transit continues to evolve, embracing new technologies while remaining a staple in the lives of millions.
To get a glimpse of this historic event, check out the video detailing the 60th anniversary celebrations here:
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