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The return of the Ford Transit XL Plus
A complex start to Ford Transit production
It's no secret that Safari Condo doesn't stand still, and over the years theCompany has expanded its product range, introducing iconic models that have left their mark on the RV industry. In 2000, theCompany launched Recreational Vehicles based on the GMC Savana chassis, followed in 2009 by the Mercedes Sprinter series and, then, by the RAM ProMaster series in 2014.
During the pandemic, the weeks of government-imposed plant closures seemed a good time to reflect on the future of certain models in the B-Class product line offered at Safari Condo. It was at this point that the succession team took the decision to end production of the models on GMC Savana chassis used at Safari Condo for over 20 years. The objective of this decision was to make way for the Ford Transit, which seemed to offer a product better adapted to travelers' needs.
The R&D team then went on to certify the installation of the bench seats on the Ford Transit chassis with Transport Canada, developed two prototypes for the two most popular models, and obtained CSA certification for these new models.
What hadn't been anticipated in these new projects was that automotive manufacturing capacity would drop drastically in the wake of the pandemic. As a result, the supply of Ford Transit vehicles was highly problematic for a few years, and the decision was taken to concentrate production on the most popular model, the Transit XL Flex, leaving the XL Plus temporarily on the sidelines.
The return of the Ford Transit XL Plus
After three years in the mothballs, the Transit XLPlus is back! The Safari Condo team is pleased to announce the return of the Transit XL Plus, which will be present at the Drummondville Class B RV Show and the Montreal RV Show. Now that the supply of Ford chassis is once again stable, production has been relaunched on the Transit to produce XL Plus; the team has been working on the new vehicle as if it were a prototype... but the team will be getting its hands dirty again in the near future, as several Transit XL Plus are already scheduled in the 2025 production schedule!
Advantages and features of the Ford Transit XLPlus
The Ford Transit XL Plus is based on the Ford Transit 3500 chassis with twin rear wheels, and is powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, offering remarkable power and fuel efficiency, and the option of adding all-wheel drive (AWD).
At 22 feet long, this model stands out for its incredibly bright, uncluttered interior. Like the XL Plus versions offered on other chassis, the Transit XL Plus offers a choice between an electric bench bed equipped with two seat belts for additional passengers, or the large height-adjustable electric bed providing immense cargo space under the bed.
The Transit XL Plus is also equipped with a four-person front dinette with swiveling extension table, and a retractable shower to maximize space when not in use. The base model is offered with a toilet equipped with a black/gray water tank; the option of a cassette toilet is also available to facilitate RV use in winter.
As for the appliances included for comfort, this model is equipped with, among others, a 13,000 BTU gasoline heater, a Truma Aquago instant water heater, two independent refrigerators offering a total of 5.6 cu.ft. of refrigerated space, 260 Ah lithium batteries and a 2000 W inverter.
As always, you can add options to personalize your vehicle. Whether it's adding solar panels up to 380W or a roof rack with a ladder at the rear, there are a multitude of ways to configure your Safari Condo to suit your needs and tastes.
Innovation doesn't stop here
The return of the Ford Transit XL Plus embodies Safari Condo's perseverance and theCompany s commitment to innovation, safety and functionality. Never completely satisfied with the status quo, the R&D team continues to work on other new products to offer. This spring, a model will be produced equipped with the all-new Truma Combi Diesel, 520 Ah lithium batteries, a 3000W inverter and a built-in induction plate, enabling a high-performance, comfortable, propane-free conversion.
Come and see the XL Plus and discuss upcoming innovations with our team at the Salon du VR Classe B at the Centrexpo de Drummondville from February 28 to March 2, 2025, or at the unmissable Salon du VR at the Palais des congrès de Montréal from March 6 to 9, 2025.
