For the majority of models in the range . . . diesel-engined van and bus models . . . this additional driver aid is now standard equipment from the end of the first quarter of the year.

Dual rear-wheel and chassis cab derivatives will receive ESP as standard equipment from October.

The Transit's advanced ESP system operates seamlessly under all driving conditions. The system's sensors constantly monitor the desired and the actual driving direction and when it detects significant differences it interacts with the brake- and motormanagement system in order to stabilise the vehicle. Under slippery road conditions or during extreme steering manoeuvres, ESP applies brake and torque adjustments as required to help avoid dangerous oversteering and understeering.

ESP systems use technology that brings dramatic improvements to the standard anti-lock braking and electronic brakeforce distribution systems. It includes traction control and roll-over mitigation, it uses sensors to determine the acceleration needed for the load being carried and it can reduce stopping distances by 20% in emergency braking situations.

The Transit was awarded the 2007 International Van of the Year title and was the best selling vehicle (vans and cars) for each of the final four months of 2006.