THE new Ford Transit has become the fifth generation model to win the title of International Van of the Year. A panel of 20 international journalists makes the 2001 award and the Transit gained 112 out of a possible 133 points - the highest ranking in the history of the competition.

Ford of Europe chairman Nick Scheele was on hand to pick up the trophy from chairman of the judging panel Pieter Wieman. He said afterwards: 'We are absolutely delighted and proud to receive this award. The new Transit embodies every bit of knowledge we have accumulated as a commercial vehicle leader since 1965.'

The new Transit is now available in both front and rear wheel drive formats and with a staggering array of lengths, weights and roofs heights. It achieved its four million-production milestone last year and has led the European field in sales terms for 10 out of the past 13 years.