Ford has increased its fleet of Mobile Service Vans by over a quarter, in response to the UK’s increasing reliance on van-based delivery services. This trend was rising anyway; the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has only seen it accelerate, and as a result it’s become even more critical for some businesses to keep their vehicles operating in tip-top condition.
The Ford Mobile Service Vans help with this by making van servicing even more flexible – instead of having to make time to drive your Transit or Transit Custom to a service centre, the service centre can come to you.
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How long has Ford been operating Mobile Service Vans?
The programme started with a pilot scheme in 2015 that only operated inside of the M25, before expanding in 2016 and going nationwide in 2017. It uses a fleet of specially adapted Ford Transit vans.
How many Ford Mobile Service Vans are there?
Up until this point there were 103 vans, and in total they’ve covered some 1.3 million miles since 2017 – that’s approximately 15,000 miles per week, some vans travelling as much as 100 miles from their base to carry out servicing and repairs for customers. They have worked 80,000 jobs in the process.
The Mobile Service Van fleet has now expanded by 27 vans to 130, an increase of 26%. Each van is able to make up to five vehicle services per day – and that’s without tackling multiple vehicles at the same location (which is an option, too).
What work do they carry out?
The Mobile Service Vans are fitted out with specially designed racking and storage for all the tools needed to carry out a ‘comprehensive service’ as well as some repair work.
On-board kit includes a 2.5-tonne jack and axle stands, diagnostics equipment and all the necessary ‘COVID-secure’ cleanliness and social distancing gear needed in these times.
Has coronavirus increased demand?
According to Ford of Britain and Ireland’s commercial vehicle director, Mandy Dean: ‘Customers are relying on their vans’ smooth running more than ever. Regular servicing ensures that their vehicles remain safe, receive important updates and deliver optimal fuel economy. Our Mobile Service Van initiative is enjoying renewed interest as a COVID-secure and time-efficient way to maintain fleets.’
Ford’s own TrustFord dealer network diverted its entire Mobile Service Van provision to support the NHS and other essential workers at the start of the pandemic. As early supporters of the mobile servicing scheme, TrustFord intends to further increase its own fleet of vans ‘significantly’ by the end of the year.
Can they service non-Ford vehicles?
Although intended to support Ford’s commercial vehicle customers, as well as being able to work on any Ford vehicle, the Mobile Service Van technicians are able to service and maintain non-Ford vehicles.
They’re supported in this by the Ford Omnicraft parts service.
How do I book a Ford Mobile Service Van?
Mobile servicing is now part of the operational standards required of any Transit Centre, and you can find a full list of the sites that operate the vans by using the dealer locater on Ford’s UK website.
You can even select ‘Mobile Service’ as an option under the Advanced Search, and then use your address to locate the nearest centre that can help you.
Also read:
>> Ford reviews on Parkers Vans and Pickups
>> VW offers 0% finance on vehicle servicing, repairs and accessories
>> Shots fired: how Ford plans to sell even more vans in the future
