Ford has produced a special ‘Pharmavan’ version of the Transit for long-time customer AAH Pharmaceuticals.

The firm, which is a major UK distributor of pharmaceutical products, needs to be able to keep its goods at ambient temperature while they are being transported. At the same time, a full-blown refrigerated van is costly overkill, as the products do not need to stay at a precise temperature in the way fresh food does.

Geoff Wright, head of corporate services for AAH, said: “Most pharmaceutical products have to be kept at a steady ambient temperature. Using a fully refrigerated vehicle with dual compartments for this role comes at a high price, including increased fuel consumption, running costs and CO₂ emissions.

“When the temperature in the Pharmavan’s load bay dips below 10 deg C, the heat kicks in independently of the driver. When it nears 25 degrees, the air-conditioning brings the temperature down. The system is only in use when required making it extremely cost-efficient and easy to operate.”

Lest you think that Ford will produce special versions of the Transit for just anyone, it is worth bearing in mind that the vans were part of an order for 270 vans which join AAH’s existing 800-strong van fleet. AAH has also been buying Transits for the last 46 years, ever since the first model was introduced. The Pharmavans are based on a long-wheelbase Ford Transit 300 model.

To find out more about the Ford Transit, visit www.ford.co.uk.