With the 2022 Ranger just about on its way to local showrooms , Ford has very kindly sent out a bit of a press-release detailing just how versatile the all-new SA-built workhorse really is.
Many of the innovative features throughout the new bakkie have came about as the result of feedback from customers around the world, features which are then rigorously tested in order to ensure that the 2022 Ranger is Built Ford Tough indeed.
Gary Boes, Enterprise Product Line Management director of Global Trucks said, “Our intent was not to simply create a good truck. We wanted to deliver an exceptional one that people would want to own – one that customers around the world could trust to tackle anything.”
Segmented DIY storage spaces can be created by sliding pieces of wood into slots moulded into the bedliner, just one example of the array of solutions designed to make securing cargo and fitting accessories as simple as can be.
There are sliding cleats that can be adjusted into nine positions in order to accommodate any size or shape cargo, as well as bed-mounted tie-downs and external tie-down rails. Interestingly, interviews with over 5 000 bakkie owners led to the new rear load box access step, optimised based on how the interface between them and their bakkies, as well as what they wanted from the vehicle destined to replace them.
The 2022 Ranger’s cabin features more storage, too – a smattering of cubby holes around the interior, as well as retractable cup holders and under-seat storage make for a more practical experience for occupants. Interestingly, the new Ranger has been pre-wired with auxiliary switches, making it easier to install accessories like driving lights and a winch, and a space has even been set aside under the bonnet for a second battery.
The easy-lift tailgate can be lowered with one hand and features innovative features such as clamp pockets which are concealed by spring-loaded caps in the tail gate and are designed to help secure timber or other project materials, and a ruler, built into the load bed to make measuring convenient and hassle free.
A combination of the headlights, puddle lamps, numberplate lamps and box lighting can be set to illuminate a 360-degree area around the 2022 Ranger. Dubbed Zone lighting, it is controlled via either the infotainment system or through the FordPass application on a smartphone.
The cargo box is now a voluminous 1 233-litres and is able to accommodate a standard European pallet between the wheel arches.
Anthony Hall, vehicle engineering manager said, “My job is to think like our customers and integrate the features that deliver what they need. In fact, that’s the most rewarding part of my job – talking to owners, learning their requirements, engineering a solution, and then making it real.”
A most considered and logical way to go about engineering a vehicle, especially one of this type, and one that will surely lead to the Ranger’s continued success with the introduction of the latest model to bear the nameplate.
