CLM Fleet Management Internal Account Manager, Angi Ward took her first drive in new Transit. Angi has a full range of customers driving everything from Ford Focus to top of the range luxury cars. However at the recent drive day it was the new Transit that surprised and delighted her. "Having driven the previous Transit I think Ford has made a terrific job of the latest model," she said. "Presenting the right image is important for our clients and new Transit is very Smart and looks so different without being too over-the-top.

"I was particularly impressed with the comfort and smooth ride. The performance was a real surprise for a van as it reaches motorway speed before you realise it." Image is more important than ever according to Angi. "Our clients want a vehicle that is not only practical but looks the part. When they are visiting customers the van represents their business."

"Residual values are an important factor in the whole life costs of a vehicle," said Angi Ward. "We dispose of our customer fleets on their behalf and with Transit we can be assured of gaining a good resale price. Allied to the initial value-for-money purchase price and the low maintenance costs, it''s a terrific package."

Another company with a diverse range of fleet activities is Utility Group South Staffordshire Plc, whose vehicles range from commercials to cars. The company has more than 100 user-chooser cars on its fleet and their commercial vehicles span HGVs and smaller vans. Transit has been a mainstay of utility company commercial fleets thanks to its robust durability and wide range of options.

South Staffordshire Plc''s Commercial Fleet Manager, Bob Stokes said: "We have already ordered two new Transits as our existing fleet has been so indestructible that we tend run them for five years now rather than three. It''s down to ease of maintenance, value for money, practicality and residual values."