Fleet managers who purchase the 2019 Ford Transit Connect compact van will have a choice of several options not available to retail buyers, including an exclusive engine with a natural gas prep package and other options.

The 2019 Transit Connect is entering its third generation with plenty of upgrades that include a new diesel engine choice, an array of driver-assisting technology, connectivity, and fuel-saving technology. Ford has been selling the compact van in the U.S. since 2009.

"Fleets have embraced the Transit Connect for its maneuverability, flexibility and efficiency," said Tim Stoehr, Ford's general fleet marketing manager. "The compact van does even more for our customers, adding two new drivetrains, including the only diesel in the segment, as well as smart, intuitive technology such as standard pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, standard embedded modem, standard Side Wind Stabilization, available blind spot alert with cross-traffic alert, available lane keeping system, available wireless phone charging and available adaptive cruise control."  

Among the three available engines, Ford will offer a 2.5-liter iVCT inline four-cylinder gas engine with a CNG/propane autogas prep package as a fleet-only option on XL and XLT cargo vans and XL passenger wagons. It will be paired with a six-speed automatic (SelectShift) transmission and standard 60-amp battery that's rated at 590 CCA (cold cranking amps). An optional heavy-duty 80-amp battery is rated at 800 CCA.

Other fleet-only options include a third-row seat delete in the wagon, carpeted floor cover for all rows, and two engine governors to cap top speed at 65 mph or 75 mph.

Ford's MyKey programmable ignition key remains standard for Transit Connect XLT. The feature enables fleet administrators to set warnings and limits for vehicle speed, and restrict the entertainment system's audio to 45% of maximum volume.