Ford introduces a mine-hardened version of its popular Ranger

 

• Ford Ranger XL-Plus now available to mining customers in South Africa

• Brings world-class safety to mining sites

• Tested extensively in harsh environments to meet quality requirements

PRETORIA, South Africa, 17 July 2014 - Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) today introduced a mine-hardened version of its popular Ranger to the local market. The new variant – the Ranger XL-Plus – is a new entry-level proposition into the line-up while offering a new dimension of toughness to the range. It is of particular interest to mining companies, farmers and other business owners with very specific requirements.

“The Ranger XL-Plus was born out of particular requirements from the mining industry, as well as other business owners whose main concerns were rugged capability and impeccable safety standards,” says Mark Kaufman, vice president of marketing, sales and service at FMCSA. “The vehicle is already extremely capable, and big mining companies have committed to using only vehicles that have 5-star ENCAP and ANCAP ratings, which Ranger XLT and Wildtrak derivatives boast.”

Built at the Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, following a $ 1.8 million investment, Ranger XL-Plus is now also exported to other markets such as Australia and New Zealand with mining operations.

With airbags for both the driver and passenger, as well as side impact, curtain, and a driver-side knee airbag, Ranger XL-Plus complies with the safety requirements determined by international mine operators. In addition, it has an optional bullbar designed to work in conjunction with the car’;s existing safety systems, thus not compromising airbag deployment.

An extensive list of modifications has also been tested to ensure the Ranger XL-Plus will stand up to the harsh environments seen in mining operations and various other heavy duty applications.

External modifications and enhancements include a frame tested for an increased towing load of 3 500kg, an optional heavy duty front bumper, extruded aluminium side steps, front mud flaps, and a lockable fuel filler cap.

Inside and under the skin, the Ranger XL-Plus gains a Crew Chief mounting bracket paired to an expanded wiring harness for accommodating more switches and circuits, a heavy duty second battery, vinyl floor covering, and heavy duty seat covers.

“Modifications developed for the Ranger XL-Plus came from extensive testing in real-world scenarios,” says Kaufman. “We took feedback from our clients on what more they need from the Ranger in applications such as mining, and built a version of Ranger that will take a lot more punishment, as well as offer integration with technical equipment used on sites.”

Ranger XL-Plus is available in 3 body styles with 2 chassis cab models in single and double cab variations, and a double cab model with a load box. Drive comes from the Duratorq 2.2-litre TDCi engine mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. All models have 4-wheel drive and are fitted with an Electronic Locking Rear Differential.

“We’;re buidling the Ranger XL-Plus locally, meaning we can give our customers a factory-ready version of a vehicle that meets their demands. Modifications for this version of the Ranger can be rolled out during production, so customers don’;t have to wait for aftermarket customisations,” ends Kaufman.

All Ranger derivatives come with a comprehensive 4-year / 120 000km warranty and a 5-year / 90 000kms service plan with service intervals of 15 000kms. Customers will also benefit from 3-years of roadside assistance and a 5-year corrosion warranty as part of the Ford Ranger package.

Recommended Retail Pricing (Including VAT) for the Ford Ranger XL-Plus is as follows:

• Single Chassis Cab – R 319 900


• Double Chassis Cab – R 334 900


• Double Cab – R379 900

Ford introduces a mine-hardened version of its popular Ranger