FLEET VAN JUDGES GIVE FORD THEIR TOP AWARD

BRENTWOOD, 1 October, 2009 – Ford was named "Van Manufacturer of the Year" for the second successive year at the Fleet Van Awards ceremony in London. This major award was based on a recent survey conducted by Fleet Van on more than 169,000 vans.

Ford's new Fiesta Van, launched in March this year, collected the City Van category award for 2009. Low running costs make this new entry into the car-derived market a sound business proposition. Frugal fuel economy of up to 67.3mpg, insurance groups of 1E and 2E and a choice of engines and trim levels make it a class-leading package.

Fleet Van magazine's awards reflect the growing size and importance of the light commercial vehicle sector and the critical role it plays in Britain's economy. The awards are judged by a team of experts, selected by Fleet Van magazine, and utilise industry research to choose winners in each category.

On collecting the award, commercial vehicles director, Ford of Britain, Steve Kimber said: "Being named as Fleet Van Manufacturer of the Year is hugely important to Ford, as the majority of our van business is fleet. It is great to see the continual investment we make in our van range recognised like this, and our reputation and standing in the fleet market are sure to benefit."