VAN drivers who fancy themselves as Formula 1 aces will no doubt be agog to learn that from the summer the Ford Transit will be available with a Durashift EST semi-automatic gearbox. The EST is based on a manual 'box but works without a lever or clutch. Shifts are made on steering wheel-mounted switches.

The option is available on 88bhp models and costs £1,000. For fleet managers who dismiss this as a waste of money, it must be noted that some local delivery drivers change gear 1,000 times a day in stop-start conditions. The EST box can make a 5% difference in fuel consumption and is an amazing 20% better than an automatic gearbox. Emission levels are lower too.