When Ford’s Transit emerged to replace the pre-historic E-Series vans, the realm of mail delivery erupted in sheer delight.

Well, for this design study, removing most side bodywork creases and raising the sill-line, helps shed that blow-up, bouncy-castle-on-wheels figure. Blacked-out A-pillars, Ford GT-inspired lower front-end and angular hind quarters transform it from Mr. Blobby into something much more contemporary.

Changes the cabin would be most welcome too. Whilst there are no issues with the current van’s interior volume, the cockpit is a horrid mess of conflicting shapes, panel alignment and lackluster appeal. Inspiration taken from the upcoming Fiesta, mixed with F-150 brawn, could transform the Transit’s cabin into a much nicer place to roll around.

An electric assist system with mountains of torque would be ideal for a large commercial van in high payload and stop-start applications. However, with large flat surface areas, the Transit may need a thicker military grade to reduce flex, dents and punctures.