Ford Pro is a package of services from the van manufacturer Ford Werke for commercial users of vans, based on the networking of vehicle data. For example, operations are optimized through comprehensive vehicle diagnostics or the fleet of Ford vans is monitored with the help of telematics applications for fleet management. The service portfolio of the commercial vehicle specialist also includes various software and financing solutions, and for e-vans, charging solutions. Building on this, various other data-driven services can be booked, which can also be integrated into their own systems. As the latest development, the Cologne subsidiary of the American Ford Motor Company has now added Delivery Assist.
Delivery companies are often under a lot of pressure to meet predetermined times for their deliveries. Any help to save time is therefore in demand. The developers of the data-based service Ford Pro have scrutinized the individual steps in delivery services and investigated where and how digital functions could facilitate faster deliveries.
This resulted in Delivery Assist: a "delivery assistant" that automatically turns off the engine, closes the windows, locks the doors, and activates the hazard lights when stopped, which is intended to save a lot of time.
The new tool is available for some conventional and electrified vans: several versions of the Ford Transit and E-Transit. Next, users of the Transit Custom and the E-Transit Custom will be able to access it.
More Time, More Comfort
The advantage throughout the day is not only evident in more time for the suppliers: the digital assistant also relieves the driver of some energy-sapping tasks, thus reducing the overall strain: the provider has replaced many repeated actions in the daily routine, especially those related to safety, with the assistant. In addition to making the daily routine easier, the application also contributes to vehicle theft protection, according to Ford: “Taking care of many small tasks for the drivers makes a big difference in the end.”
Functions include, for example, keyless door opening; several other actions are managed with a simple push of a button; pressing the brake pedal immediately starts the engine; and the system also remembers where the windows were positioned before the stop. Various configuration options for the automated functions “around windows, locking, and hazard lights” also allow for individual customization.
The solution is currently available for the variants of the Transit with EcoBlue diesel engine and automatic transmission as well as the all-electric E-Transit. A variant for the Transit Custom models with automatic transmission and the E-Transit Custom models is expected to be available from summer 2025.
