Kyle D 
If you’re into camping, off-roading, Ford Transit vans, and happen to find yourself within the borders of the US of A, there’s some good news for you. In an article first published by Motor Trend, the Motor Co. has filed a patent for a US version of the already European-market Ford Transit Trail, which could mean a US version sometime in the very near future. A factory-built van meant for roaming those wide open spaces? It’s about damn time.
Ford Transit Trail Gets Beefy Drivetrain Upgrades
Much like with everything, Automakers tend to lag quite a bit behind what the market is looking for. Van Life is just one on the list, along with off-road ready versions of vehicles and not having cassette decks in cars anymore. Seriously, why do cars past like ’96 still have a cassette deck? Honestly, the VCR in my Suburban makes more sense than its cassette player does, but I digress.
Regardless, the patent states that it is just for the design which looks very similar to the Ford Transit Trail sold in Europe, where people participate in “caravaning”. The off-road van also features a Raptor inspired F-O-R-D grille, black fender moulding, 16-inch Trial specific wheels, and new AWD modes for wet or muddy terrain as well as a 50:50 power distribution setting. The cargo hold remains a blank canvas for upfitters or independent adventurers to customize the layout.
Living On The Road Made Easier
While no specific van life version decked out with a kitchen, composting toilet, solar panels, meaty tires and collapsible sleeping areas, it is something that should be expected. I mean, if you’re gonna run the ball down field, why stop at the 10 yard line? The blue oval has a history of under promising and over delivering, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a roll out of a line of these vans with different heights, lengths and interior goodies in the near future.
After all, with aftermarket conversions selling so well, why wouldn’t Ford look to take things in-house?
