Churnin’ and Burnin’

Ford created a high performance off-road truck designed to handle both the desert and roadways back in 2008. The all-new Ford SVT Raptor proudly sported an aggressive grill, heavy duty off-road suspension, and some meaty BF Goodrich tires. The power plant was either the 5.4L V8 or the optional 6.2L V8. The 6.2L V8 churned out 411 hp and 434 lb-ft of torque, respectively. Although the power plants share some similarities they were built on two different assembly lines.

Change to Commercial Lineup – Ford E-450 Step Van

Ford made a change to the E-450 chassis in 2017, which is used heavily in the parcel delivery industry. The Ford E-450 step van chassis received an update from the 5.4L V8 (255hp and 350 lb-ft of torque) to the revised 6.2L V8 which produces 331 hp and 356 lb-ft of torque.  This engine is paired with the Ford TorqShift 6-speed automatic transmission, which is built to handle the power from Ford’s 6.8L V10, and the 6.2L V8.

Baja 1000?

These first-generation Ford SVT Raptors can be found all over with odometer readings well over 100,000 miles. Since this truck was built for off-road use you know these aren’t “easy” miles either. When Ford first revealed this truck, they announced they had entered it in the Baja 1000 event. The Baja 1000 race is a 1000-mile event through the desert running full blast with elevated temperatures. This race is a test of the durability and longevity for all that dare to enter!

Built “Ford” Tough

So, you’re probably asking yourself, what does the Baja 1000 and a work truck have anything to do with each other? On paper it seems like the two are on complete opposite sides of the spectrum. In actuality, they are closer than you might think. The step vans are subject to every type of environment across the country. From the boiling heat, exceeding well over 100°F, to the harsh temperatures in the winters, well below 0°F. Constantly moving, pulling heavy loads around and being put to the test daily.

All-New 2018 Ford E-450 Step Van

The new 2018 Ford E-450 spec’d for parcel delivery comes equipped with high strength shelving, back-up camera with in-cab display, safety features throughout, and either a roll-up back door or 50/50 split swing out door setup. This step van is perfect for those smaller rural routes, so parking and turning around is manageable. If you are fan of the Ford step vans and you are looking to update your fleet, the Ford E-450 makes for a great option, now considering it has more power than before with its new engine and transmission.

Never get stuck in a rut with this Chevy Silverado 3500 4×4 Supreme Spartan. This Chevy 3500 was built for the harsh roads and long drives while being able to deliver an ample supply of ruggedness with the capable 13,200 GVWR. The quiet cabin features a rear back-up camera with an AM/FM/CD player. If you are in need of a 4×4 truck for your FedEx routes look no further than the Chevy Silverado 3500 4×4. This truck was made for those routes with roads that are unpaved or have a high likelihood of snowfall. Take a look at the standard options below.

Body: The Supreme Spartan body is manufactured to fit this truck setup. The body is a low-profile design with dimensions of 12’ length x 6’ height x 8’ wide, which offers a staggering 576 cubic feet of space. The body comes equipped with fold-up aluminum shelving on both the driver and passenger sides and a translucent roof.

Engine: The 6.0 Liter small block is a bullet proof GM engine known for long lasting durability. This V8 configuration also provides better fuel economy when compared to similar vehicles. Maintenance is much cheaper for a gas engine than a diesel.

4×4 System: In most instances the delivery trucks for your FedEx routes do not come with a 4×4 system, while this truck comes standard with 4wd. The Chevy 3500 4×4 has been created to satisfy the needs for a delivery vehicle with 4wd. When the 4×4 is not in use, you have the ability to switch it to 2wd for a more desirable fuel economy. The Chevy also has dual rear wheels for additional traction on those rough roads.

Unique Qualities: This truck is capable of driving for a very long time. It comes equipped with the standard 23.5 gallon fuel tank in front of the rear axle. However, this unique Chevy 3500 also comes with another fuel tank that is located behind the rear axle for an additional 40 gallons. With a combined fuel capacity of 63.5 gallons, you will surely make less trips to the gas pumps.

The Chevy Silverado 3500 4×4 is a great vehicle for FedEx contractors in areas with rough roads and weather conditions. Because the cab’s construction separate from the body it is much quieter and more comfortable for longer hauls between deliveries.

Note* When ordering a Chevy Silverado 3500 4×4, the custom order takes approximately 14 weeks to complete the build. There will be 15 in stock around the beginning to middle of February.

For more info on the Chevy Silverado 3500 4×4 vehicle, Click Here or call your national account manager.

We’re writing a series of articles highlighting some of the best work trucks available. Today we’re going to shed some light on the Hino 268A Straight Truck.

The Hino 268A truck is the go to vehicle for bulk routes in the FedEx industry.  Its unprecedented engine durability makes it a no-brainer for businesses nation wide. Work Truck Direct sources these vehicles with the 26 foot supreme body and fold out shelving.  The Hino 268A also boasts standard A/C and an AM/FM/CD entertainment system.

This truly is one of the best work trucks around.  It was voted the 2010 ATD (American Truck Dealers) Truck of the Year for its durability and reliability and proves it with an industry best 5 year/250,000 mile engine warranty.

Engine Options: J08E-VC Turbo Charged and Intercooled engine

Transmission: Allison Transmission 2200

Gauge Cluster Complete with DEF level and real time MPG.

If you’re looking for a Medium Duty Truck for your business, you can’t do much better than the Hino 268A.  For more info, contact your national account manager.

We’re writing a series of articles highlighting some of the best work trucks available.  Today we’re going to shed some light on the Chevy City Express

Work Truck Direct offers a Pest Control Upfit for the Chevy City Express featuring the Delivery Concept Inc’s Sealed Bulk-head.  This makes the vehicle usable for Pest Control Operators who can’t drive a vehicle without an airtight cab.  In addition to the sealed bulk-head, there is a slide-out backpack sprayer holder, a hand held sprayer holder, shelving, and a number of other options.

Sealed Bulk-Head with slide-out backpack sprayer holder

Engine Options: 2.0 Liter DOHC I-4 Engine

Transmission: Xtronic CVT Transmission

The Chevy is a great vehicle for Pest Control Operators.  The air tight bulk-head solves the problem that prevented Pest Control operators from using vans in the past.  On top of that, van’s are far more accessible than crawling around in the bed of a pick up truck so the Delivery Concepts package is a great upfit for PCO’s everywhere.

For more info on all the Chevy Cutaway options, call your national account manager.

We’re writing a series of articles highlighting some of the best package delivery trucks available.  Today we’re going to shed some light on the Chevy Cutaway Chassis.

The Chevy Cutaway Chassis is a workhorse of the parcel delivery sector.  Low initial cost and high durability make it an easy buy for many FedEx contractors.  It’s easy to see why it is a popular choice.  With 4.8L and 6.0 V8 options, the Chevy Small block is well known for its durability and ease of maintenance.  The 4500 Chassis also has the added option of the 6.6L Duramax diesel. The box upfits on the Chevy Cutaway Chassis can range from 12′ to 18′ long and the GVWR ranges from 9,900 lbs on the 3500 chassis to 14,200 lbs on the 4500 chassis.

Engine Options:
4.8L V8 Gas with 285 Horsepower and 295 lbs.-ft of Torque
6.0L V8 Gas with 342 Horsepower and 373 lbs.-ft of Torque
6.6L V8 Diesel with 262 Horsepower and 525 lbs.-ft of Torque (with Allison Transmission)

Transmission: 6-speed Automatic Overdrive

The Chevy Cutaway is a great vehicle for FedEx contractors in rural areas or residential routes.  Because the cab’s construction is based off of the cargo van and not a step van, it is much quieter and more comfortable for longer hauls between deliveries.

For more info on all the Chevy Cutaway options, Click Here or call your national account manager.

We’re writing a series of articles highlighting some of the best package delivery trucks available.  Today we’re going to shed some light on the 2015 Ford Transit.

The Ford Transit is one of the top competitors in the new euro-style cargo van segment that have taken over the industry.  With the introduction of the new Transit, Ford has discontinued the Ford E-series van.  This versatile platform boasts best in class fuel economy and maintains the roominess of the old E-series panel cargo vans (500 cu. ft. storage in the largest model).  The versatile chassis is even being used for a number of different cutaway models including the upcoming Utilimaster Velocity Step Van.

The Ford Transit is a great van for getting into tight places.  With a turning circle of approximately 56 ft. and it’s sleek profile, this van can go places your typical step van or straight truck can’t go.

Engine: 3.7L V6 Gas Engine with 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque

Transmission: 6-speed Automatic Overdrive with SelectShift

The 3.7L Gas engine is a real performer with 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.  Not to mention; the maintenance is cheaper than a diesel and the fuel economy is significantly better than the previous Ford E-series cargo van.  Jerry from FedEx Ground Fredericksberg, VA reported being “impressed with the 15 MPG’s and the smoothness of the transmission up the rural hills” in his service area.

For more info on the Ford Transit Gas vehicle, Click Here or call your national account manager.