Ford has launched Transit24, a service level agreement designed to provide fast and consistent aftersales services to its commercial vehicle customers.

Part of Ford’s on-going investment into the UK’s largest dealer network, Transit24 will help to minimise vehicle downtime and reduce whole life costs for Ford customers. The new initiative comes in the wake of the launch of the Transit Custom, which forms the first part of the complete renewal of its commercial vehicle line-up by 2014.

More than 90 of Brentwood-based Ford’s 200-plus commercial vehicle authorised repair network will be identified as “Transit24 Dealers” to provide first class service, maintenance and repair for all commercial vehicles. They will provide priority treatment for all urgent work and aim to complete vehicle-off-road repairs on the same working day, or within 24 hours.

Each Transit24 site employs Ford-trained technicians and offers specialised workshop equipment, tools and training, and can look after all service, maintenance and warranty work. They will offer while-you-wait servicing to suit the customer, including late night appointments at least once a week, and will respond to online service booking requests within 20 minutes.

Collection and delivery of vehicles can be arranged and every vehicle leaves the dealership washed and ready for work. Fleet National Pricing for 25-plus fleets ensures the best prices for routine servicing and fixed-content jobs.

Jon Wellsman, Ford of Britain Customer Service Director, said:

“This initiative from Ford provides added value and convenience for our customers. Ford offers a class-leading range of commercial vehicles and technologies and with the most accessible dealer network in the country, the aim is to offer the best and most widespread care and assistance for Ford customers.”

Other benefits include using only genuine Ford parts, whether in stock or delivered to the dealership by 9am the next day, and a sophisticated internet-linked vehicle diagnostics system. Other dedicated back-up from Ford includes an electronic recalls programme and the support of a dedicated team at the Ford Fleet Service Centre.

Every Ford Transit and Transit Connect comes with a comprehensive three year/100,000-mile manufacturer’s warranty and with Ford Assistance, a premium roadside assistance package which includes ‘load continuation’, so that in the event of a breakdown, the load can be delivered before the vehicle is taken to a repairer. Ford also offers a free Fleet Accident Management service to all business customers.

This could be a deal that appeals to busy van hire companies and trade operators, for whom every hour of lost availability directly equates to lost earnings.