Vehicle recovery and breakdown specialist the AA has announced a new deal with Ford that will see the company take on hundreds of new vehicles to bolster its fleet.

Overall, the AA is to receive an additional 343 new Ford Transit Custom models to further swell the company's more than 2,100-strong fleet of patrol vehicles in the UK.

Furthermore, this latest acquisition will see the representation for Ford in the recovery specialist's service rise to more than 50 per cent.

Prior to delivery, the new Transit models – a mix of 310 and 330 L1 variants – are being converted to include fitment of the AA's new livery, as well as the installation of fixings for the connection of the AA's new recovery trailer that allows the partial lifting of broken down vehicles for towing.

In addition, a dual battery and a number of specialist internal racking systems are being installed in each model.

Ian Watson, direct sales manager at the vehicle manufacturer, commented: "Ford is already supplying around 3,000 cars a year to the AA Driving School and we are very pleased that the organisation has recognised the Ford Transit Custom's many attributes, including the important financial ones.

"They look eye-catching in AA livery and will prove a reassuring roadside sight for AA members."

AA head of fleet Sarah Dopson concluded that the company examined all the usual factors when it came time to further add to its vehicle line-up – including acquisition price, depreciation, servicing, maintenance costs and running costs including fuel economy – and it was the Transit Custom that emerged the best all-round option for the business.

"Deliveries of the new vehicles will be complete by November, in time for our busiest period for call-outs," she added.