All-New Ford Ranger Debuts

**russellw** · 19-10-2010, 09:32 PM

The all-new Ford Ranger delivers on the Built Ford Tough promise with a more refined ride pick-up truck customers will love

New chassis starts with a 100 percent newly designed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension, crisp rack-and-pinion steering and new rear suspension for great truck capability and a smooth, stable ride that transforms the truck-driving experience

One of the most high-tech compact pick-ups ever, the all-new Ranger is filled with smart Ford features, including Adaptive Load Control, Trailer Sway Control, Rear Park Assist and the segment’s first Rearview Camera system

The all-new Ranger offers excellent ground clearance plus a deeper water-fording capability than any other competitor

Exceptional towing capability and a payload capacity of up to 1500 kilograms on selected models are key strengths of the all-new Ford Ranger

Capability is the foundation of Ford’s new global compact pick-up truck.

The all-new Ford Ranger builds on an impressive heritage for capability and extends it in every important aspect for the pick-up truck owner – from towing capability, hauling and load capacity to stable footing on-road or off – while transforming the compact truck from a traditional workhorse to an all-around leader not only when the work gets tough but when it comes home for time with the family.

It’s also filled with smart Ford technologies, making it the most high-tech product in its segment. The key new technologies are at the heart of the Ranger capability story.

The new Ranger’s strength is the result of a major investment by Ford to make it the latest in a wave of new global products – part of the One Ford strategy.

“This new Ranger was absolutely a no-compromise project that takes advantage of Ford’s tremendous global pick-up truck design and engineering expertise,” said Gary Boes, vehicle line director for Ford’s new compact truck platform. “We set out not only to meet the expectations of today’s buyers but to exceed those expectations. That’s why we believe so strongly that the market will recognise that this truck stands for leadership.”

A significant advance in payload capability is one of the key areas where Ranger asserts its strength. Ranger also boasts exceptional towing capability, a deeper high-capacity box and the best water-fording capability in the business.

“We’ve started from the ground up and have incorporated several new technologies into the all-new Ranger,” said Stephan Presser, vehicle engineering manager for the Ford Ranger. “This newest iteration of Ranger is the most capable compact pick-up truck we’ve ever offered, and we believe it will be superior for years to come.”

Among the highlights of the new chassis is an all-new frame that is longer and stiffer. It’s engineered to get the job done, day in and day out. It enables a more refined ride and interior comfort, mated with new front and rear suspensions that provide excellent comfort and a quiet cabin environment. Ford is also introducing the precise control of a new rack-and-pinion steering system in the all-new Ranger, as well as hydraulic body mounts, another technology aimed at enhanced ride comfort.

Ranger also introduces the segment’s first Rearview Camera system and new Rear Park Assist. The rear-facing camera provides additional visibility, and the Rear Park Assist sensors help the driver avoid obstacles while reversing.

New frame provides backbone
The all-new Ford Ranger’s backbone was engineered for robust strength to meet the varied expectations of pick-up truck customers all over the world. It was engineered to fulfil a dual role for many customers who use their vehicles for work and family. Emphasis was placed on developing a new chassis that would honour the Ford Tough Truck heritage, while improving interior ride comfort and optimising vehicle stability.

The Ranger team engineered a completely new foundation, enabling them to redesign the front and rear suspension and take full advantage of smart new technologies like Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Traction Control. These leading-edge technologies are complemented by the availability of Trailer Sway Control, Adaptive Load Control and Roll-over Mitigation. These three systems provide additional safety and control when Ranger is put to work hauling heavy loads.

“Just imagine how all this – an all-new chassis and great new smart technologies like the Rearview Camera system and Trailer Sway Control – transforms the towing and hauling experience with the all-new Ford Ranger,” Boes said.

Ranger’s capabilities are enhanced with advanced chassis controls that work in harmony with the ABS. Features include Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Electronic Brake Assist as well as Emergency Brake Lights.

While Ranger was already outfitted with many of these technologies, engineers introducing the new frame, new front and rear suspension, and new steering system concentrated on integrating the various features to produce the most capable Ranger yet.

A longer wheelbase and increased track, both front and rear, were adopted for improved drivability and passenger comfort. The new Ranger easily absorbs any undulations in the pavement with an extended 3220-millimetre wheelbase – the longest in class. The front and rear track on the 4x4 model is 1560 millimetres and 1590 millimetres on the 4x2 model.

With the increase in vehicle wheelbase and track, the Ranger is sure-footed, both on-road and off. The increase in track also translates into more interior comfort, shoulder and second row leg room.

As the backbone for the all-new Ranger, the frame is designed to meet stringent crash performance standards. Vehicle weight has been reduced for improved fuel efficiency. Priority was given to meeting targets for rigidity, torsional stiffness and increased towing capacity.

Initial development started with computer-aided engineering work before the first test vehicle was built. Designs generated by computer simulation greatly reduced development time and identified areas where strength needed to be added or reduced without affecting structural integrity, rigidity or crash performance. Reducing mass was also a priority for engineers.

Abundant ground clearance
To reduce the likelihood of damage during off-road driving, all critical drive line components are neatly located between the frame rails and therefore out of harm’s way. The power train, transfer case, oil pan, exhaust system and fuel tank are neatly tucked above the side beam rails and allow the Ranger to glide over ground swells or obstacles without impacting vehicle components if the truck bottoms out. Additional shielding protects other key components.

Minimum ground clearance for the all-new Ranger on 4x4 models, as well as 4x2 Hi-Riders that see extensive off-road use, is exceptional at 230 millimetres with base 16-inch tyres. Seventeen-inch tyres are also available.

Even if the all-new Ford Ranger gets mired in deep sand, snow or mud, engineers have provided a towing hook up front to pull the vehicle free. Dual front hooks – each rated at 6000 kilograms – are standard for the Australian market on 4x4 and 4x2 models.

To help cope with heavy monsoon rains that often wash out roads across many areas of the world, the all-new Ranger’s electrical components and air intake are mounted high in the engine compartment to minimise water penetration and potential electrical shorts. This gives the all-new Ranger impressive water-wading capability.

Leveraging global steering and suspension expertise
The driving character of the all-new Ranger has been shaped with Ford expertise from around the world. With the cornerstones of Ford’s chassis dynamics DNA – Agility, Stability, Precision and Comfort – as a guide, Ranger delivers.

The complete chassis set-up comes from a global engineering group whose expertise was brought together to enhance the all-new Ranger’s reputation for capability. Strong vehicle dynamics and on-road stability are a hallmark of every Ford product – car, truck or SUV – launched in the last decade. With the combined global expertise of experienced dynamics engineers from Australia, South Africa, Europe and North America, and with valuable insight from manufacturing hubs in Thailand and South America, the new pick-up truck delivers impressive SUV-like steering and handling coupled with the highest levels of comfort. The result is on-road and off-road performance that customers will value.

In Australia, where Ranger was primarily developed, around-town manners with the ability to make a camping trip to the Outback were musts during the early phases of development engineering. Extensive gravel-road testing and long-distance test trips through the harsh and demanding Outback have helped to fine tune suspension settings, tyre performance and steering feel and response.

As part of the development phase, engineers observed customer driving practices throughout the world.

“What we found was high-speed driving on good roads; high-speed driving on bad roads; and loading the vehicle up to maximum capacity,” explained Matt Reilly, Ranger vehicle dynamics supervisor.

In South America, for example, thorough testing was required to reduce the tendency of some vehicles in this segment to ‘skate’ and swing out while driving at high speeds on rough, corrugated, dirt roads. This is a common condition where insufficient rear-axle damping leads to the rear axle pushing the rear end of the vehicle from side-to-side.

“We have spent countless hours finding the best set-up for high-speed stability even on bad roads,” Reilly said. “A combination of linear steering response, excellent torque feedback, predictable vehicle roll and yaw response put the driver in control. The new Ranger is a fun-to-drive pick-up truck that will instil confidence when driven.”

In Europe, where vehicles are generally operated in developed areas, a premium was placed on high-speed dynamics, handling and steering feel.

In Asia, where single-vehicle households are the norm, the all-new Ranger needs to fill a dual role of daytime work truck and after-hours family transportation vehicle. Thailand, for example, requires a softer, more compliant suspension that caters to unique road conditions, according to Reilly.

With input and feedback from some of Ford’s best engineers and collaboration with Mazda, new front and rear suspension systems were designed.

All variations for four- and two-wheel drive, high and low ride, and diesel and petrol power trains were developed on a unique test vehicle before the first prototype was built. This helped engineers evaluate all necessary requirements and determine the best layout for details from the turning circle to confirming optimal suspension geometry including kingpin offset, scrub radius, toe and camber settings, as well as elastokinematic properties of the front and rear suspension.

“Through careful analysis and tuning, we found it was possible to build the first fleet of prototype vehicles close to final properties for suspension geometry including changes under traction, braking and hard cornering,” Reilly said. “This was achieved by using a combination of newly developed computer-aided-engineering (CAE) models, the Kinematics and Compliance test rigs available at all Ford development centres and Steering Robots for precise and repeatable test inputs.

“But the final say will always be left to test and development engineers evaluating every small change subjectively and by measuring objective vehicle response data. The Dynamics team had one single and clear objective – deliver a true Ford driver’s truck that is agile, precise and comfortable. And we left no stone unturned,” Reilly said.

The result is a Built Ford Tough pick-up truck with a single design that provides the best possible road manners. For traditional buyers, the benefits are huge with no compromises in payload capacity or towing ability. For sport utility enthusiasts who prefer smoother, more refined road handling, the all-new Ranger delivers with less of the harshness typically found in trucks.

Engineers didn’t ignore the ‘fun-to-drive’ aspects. The new rear suspension system provides a smooth, firm and comfortable ride without diluting the payload capacity. While the rear leaf suspension design may seem simple, with careful tuning it rewards the driver under all types of driving conditions.

“It wasn’t simply a matter of changing spring rates,” said Reilly. “We evaluated the thickness of the springs to determine if we could reduce mass without affecting performance. We found the best common location for both the front bushings, rear shackles for springs and shock absorbers on all models. We tested bushing diameters and construction for a more compliant ride.”

The same thorough development process was applied to the entirely new front suspension.

The torsion spring suspension was abandoned in favour of a new coil-over-strut design that allows for better tuning of the upper and lower wishbone design. Similar for both two- and four-wheel applications, suspension tuning is unique due to vehicle weight, centre of gravity, drive configuration and torque distribution.

Damper valving and spring rates have been tailored to meet global market requirements and deliver the best possible ride and handling.

The all-new Ranger features a new rack-and-pinion design that gives drivers more precise steering control.

All the steering play that is normally associated with the re-circulating ball has been eliminated. “We’ve successfully designed a steering system that is precise but not overly tight like a sports car,” Reilly said.

In tight parking confines or narrow off-road tracks, all drivers will benefit from the all-new Ranger’s turning circle – 11.8 metres on 4x2 models and 12.4 metres on 4x4 variants. Drivers also benefit from careful tuning of parking and low-speed manoeuvrability steering efforts. The responsive steering system requires no more than 3.5 turns of the wheel lock-to-lock, making it one of the best in the segment.

Adapting these proven technologies pushes the suspension geometry of the Ranger to new levels, making the vehicle extremely responsive. Response is linear and controllable, and vehicle reactions including roll and yaw are carefully balanced. As a result, the all-new Ford Ranger is a vehicle that beckons to be driven.

“We looked at many different settings and we were able to meet all the suspension requirements and provide customers with a suspension that is responsive with no surprises or reactions from steering input. The driver feels comfortable and in control at all times,” Reilly explained. “Ranger is easy to drive and delivers what the driver expects. Even with heavy loads, the all-new Ranger exhibits excellent body control.”

Improved comfort is the result of Ford’s introduction of ‘hydro’ mounts for the Ranger body. Constructed of hard rubber and filled with hydraulic fluid, the hydro mount is located on the frame between the rail and cabin and helps isolate vertical and horizontal motions more effectively. It reduces cabin shake and delivers a more comfortable, pleasing ride without the harshness associated with a truck.

Exceptional towing and hauling capabilities
With the longer wheelbase, wider track and tall-shouldered box design, the all-new Ranger boasts generously increased cargo capacity.

When equipped with selected Ford Duratorq TDCi diesel engine packages and selected transmission and rear-axle final-drive gearing, the all-new Ranger delivers exceptional towing capability.

The all-new Ford Ranger features a payload capacity of up to 1500 kilograms on selected models. The Ranger Double Cab box is 1549 millimetres long. With box height increased to 511 millimetres, the cargo volume has been increased to 1.21 cubic metres. Maximum cargo width is 1560 millimetres and width between the wheel arches is 1139 millimetres.

The improved passenger comfort of the all-new Ranger Double Cab is immediately noticeable. Passengers will appreciate more legroom in the rear cabin, which also provides an ideal space for secure stowage.

Largest brakes in its segment
Braking capability is another leadership trait of the all-new Ford Ranger. Brakes on the new Ranger are the largest in class and are designed to provide maximum braking performance.

Brake systems include vented disc brakes up front with drum brakes in the rear.

All Ranger models are equipped with larger front rotors measuring 302 by 32 millimetres and twin-piston callipers. The brake calliper features a pair of phenolic pistons that reduce weight and improve thermal performance.

Two-wheel-drive Rangers use a 270-by-55-millimetre rear drum, whilst the Hi-Rider and 4x4 vehicles use a 295-by-55-millimetre rear drum.

To help reduce the possibility of pad contamination and rotor wear from pebbles that may become embedded between the rotor and pad, front brakes include a brake dust shield as standard equipment. All brake linings are constructed using the latest non-asbestos organic materials, which meet global comfort requirements for noise and pad life while fulfilling pick-up truck thermal and fade requirements.

“The new brake system was developed jointly with Mazda Design and Development Engineering and subjected to a comprehensive validation process,” said Lyndon Loader, brake development supervisor. “The brakes were subjected to the extremes of environmental conditions and customer driving requirements.”

“It didn’t matter where I drove the vehicle, whether it was at minus 30 degrees Celsius in Sweden, the extreme heat in California’s Death Valley, the congestion of city traffic, the German Autobahn or the Outback roads of Australia, the brake system fulfilled all of Ford’s stringent requirements,” said Matthew Avedian, lead brake development engineer.

A key factor in the early stages of the programme was designing the brake system to meet Ford’s global DNA and to align with the dynamic performance of the vehicle.

“We wanted to achieve passenger car-like response on the brake pedal so every single component was assessed and then designed to deliver optimal pedal stiffness,” Loader said. “Using a stiffer ‘tie rod booster design’, low-expansion hoses, high-rigidity callipers and reduced running clearances on the rear brake are some of the design features we have incorporated. This results in brake pedal travel that is typically seen on passenger cars and contributes to real reduction in stopping distances.”

Having the largest brake system in segment provides excellent fade resistance particularly with maximum payload. While other systems start to fade and stopping distances increase, the Ranger is engineered to keep performing.

“Pennsylvania’s Laurel Mountain and the Grossglockner mountain range in Austria were no match for the Ranger,” said Avedian.

For superior braking performance, Ranger is available with an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) that includes four-wheel traction control, yaw control and roll-over mitigation.

The traction control system includes sensors located at all four wheels that independently monitor wheel speed up to 50 times per second to detect wheel slip during acceleration or braking. If wheel slip is detected, engine torque is managed in conjunction with selective independent brake application to ensure optimal traction and stability.

Under extreme conditions of wheel slip during acceleration, the system’s torque management system will momentarily shut down fuel delivery and spark to the engine cylinders to reduce power. Once wheel slip is controlled, full power is restored.

The ESP system includes a variety of vehicle sensors that measure steering wheel input as well as throttle and brake application to ensure the Ranger stays on its intended path. By measuring lateral and longitudinal acceleration and yaw rate, it determines deviations between what the driver wants and how the vehicle reacts.

On slippery surfaces like ice, the system intervenes through selective brake and throttle interventions.

The ESP available on Ranger is designed to be unobtrusive. It supports rather than overrides the driver.

The ESP and ABS intervention and control strategy are tuned differently for on-road (sealed roads) and off-road conditions. ABS, for example, determines whether the driver is on gravel roads and then adjusts the control parameters to allow for more wheel lock-up which, through a wedge of material build-up in front of the wheels, leads to shorter stopping distance.

To help maintain stability and prevent the vehicle from swerving, Ranger is available with Adaptive Load Control. The system automatically determines the payload and automatically adjusts the sensitivity of the ESP system to maintain stable handling.

Under panic stop conditions, Emergency Brake Assist provides maximum boost to achieve the shortest stopping distance possible. Independent studies have shown that stopping distances can be significantly reduced even when customers hesitate to fully apply brake pedal pressure. When the ABS is engaged, emergency brake lights flash to warn the car behind you of a panic stop. Mid-level braking systems for Ranger include four-wheel ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).

EBD is engineered to determine rear-wheel slip and maintain maximum brake-line pressure to the rear wheels whilst avoiding over-braking of the rear wheels – for the best stability and shortest stopping distance, regardless of payload.

Advanced chassis controls for a stable ride
Two smart new Ranger technologies – Trailer Sway Control and Adaptive Load Control – help provide confidence-inspiring handling when towing a trailer or with heavy loads.

Even the most experienced drivers are aware of the difficulties of controlling a swaying trailer. On the all-new Ranger, if the trailer begins to sway, the Trailer Sway Control system efficiently takes control, selectively applying brakes to reduce the speed of the truck and trailer combination.

“The effectiveness of Trailer Sway Control is a real eye opener,” said Presser. “The availability of this system as part of ESP underscores the capability of Ranger as a serious tow vehicle.”

Ranger maintains a stable ride with Adaptive Load Control. This system automatically determines the payload of the Ranger and applies the necessary measures to maintain a stable ride.

Fitted with an 80-litre fuel tank, Ranger is expected to have outstanding fuel economy.

Whatever the job in South America, road conditions in South Africa or personal use in Europe, the new Ford Ranger delivers on the Built Ford Tough promise with heightened capabilities in ride, payload, safety and interior comfort.

Source: Ford Media

**russellw** · 19-10-2010, 09:37 PM

Powerful stance and confident proportions are central to the ‘21st Century Tough’ character of the all-new Ford Ranger

Designed around pick-up truck capability, the large body all-new Rangers feature a deep, spacious box and high belt line that give it a purposeful presence. Its sculpted, contemporary shape is optimised for aerodynamic efficiency

The all-new Ranger debuts with a spacious, comprehensively featured Double Cab model that previews a complete range of three body styles, 4x2 and 4x4 versions and a broad series lineup

Stretched on the inside for more spaciousness and easier access, Ranger has all the comforts, features and refinement for up to five occupants

The interior design and contemporary look of the all-new Ford Ranger features outstanding levels of craftsmanship and feature content, reflecting the importance of dual use to many customers in this segment around the world

There’s no mistaking the all-new Ford Ranger’s Built Ford Tough credentials. Its powerful presence exudes capability, confidence and, more than ever, unexpected levels of spaciousness, comfort, craftsmanship and technology that will transform the pick-up truck ownership experience.

The all-new model – destined to be sold in 180 markets on five continents – marks the complete transformation of the Ford Ranger: tough and more capable than ever, yet just as at home as a family vehicle with all the comforts, features and refinement for up to five occupants.

Ford is revealing an all-new Ford Ranger Double Cab model as the flagship in a progressive reveal of its comprehensive new range of pick-up trucks. The all-new Ranger family will include three body styles, 4x2 and 4x4 configurations, high- and low-ride models and a broad series array to answer every pick-up owner’s requirements – from hose-out work trucks to fully-featured personal vehicles.

The all-new Ford Ranger is the latest in a wave of global products coming from the One Ford product strategy – and is the first global pick-up truck to extend the Built Ford Tough reputation that originated in the United States with the best-selling Ford F-Series line-up. The new Ranger exudes Built Ford Tough in its design yet conveys a taut, toned, contemporary sophistication that marks the importance of dual use – work and leisure – for compact pick-up customers in many world markets.

It’s a hard-working truck designed to make its hard-working owner proud, according to chief designer, Craig Metros, a 24-year Ford veteran who has had an influential hand in Ford pick-up design around the world.

“It’s not often in the pick-up truck world that designers get the opportunity to re-invent a vehicle from the ground up,” he said.

Metros led the Australia-based design team that created the new model making its global debut today at the Australian International Motor Show. He previously served as design chief for the Ford F-150 in North America.

Metros characterises the powerful, confident design of the new Ford Ranger as ‘21st Century Tough’. It’s the result of a design process that answers pick-up truck owners’ wants and expectations from all around the world.
“We explored a bandwidth ranging from Ford North America’s very traditional and much liked F-Series to influences from Europe’s very successful kinetic design language,” said Metros.

As the design team explored different design alternatives for the next-generation Ranger, one message – Ford Tough Trucks – resonated around the world. That inspired the ultimate shape of the new Ranger, which has shown remarkably consistent appeal in customer research globally.

“We believe the new Ranger has a dynamic balance that pushes Ford Tough Trucks into the future,” Metros said. “It looks very tough but not in the same geometric F-series approach. Instead, Ranger has its own contemporary appeal – its own approach to tough.”

One truck, different series
Designers focused on the conditions that Ranger would be subjected to in various regions of the world.

In Europe, Ranger is often used as a sport pick-up. Top-of-the-range Limited and Wildtrak models are equipped with leather interiors, larger wheels and all the features you would find in a luxury car.

In others parts of the world, including Africa and central Asia, or among fleet buyers, Ranger trucks are for the most part strictly utilitarian, with a hose-out interior.

The all-new pick-up styling uses proportions to suit every market. Ranger’s front end features a nice short overhang with a tri-plane plan view, creating a modern, aerodynamic look.

The belt line, along with the rails of the box, were raised significantly – increasing the vehicle’s functionality with a deeper load box. Designers sculpted the traditional square form of the truck to give the vehicle a more modern look.

Larger headlamps, bigger mirrors and stamped-in wheel lips (also known as fender or mudguard flares), rather than add-ons, provide an integrated look across all series, while contributing to an aggressive and sporty stance.

According to Metros, the entire front end of the vehicle, particularly the bonnet, proved to be very challenging due to pedestrian protection requirements. At the same time, aerodynamic requirements needed to be factored in to help reduce drag and boost fuel efficiency.

“The gains in fuel efficiency were made in small increments by efficient design and weight reduction,” said Metros. “We continually looked for small ways to gain a tenth here and two-tenths there. In the end, good design practices help extend Ranger’s fuel efficiency story.”

Designers added a power dome on the bonnet, an expression of the Ranger's added capability. A small chamfer on the top enhances the power dome, a cue borrowed from Europe. The clamshell-shaped bonnet has a cutline in the fenders that helps provide a wide open engine bay. The cutline runs horizontally and provides a link to the headlamp and front fascia.

The design team worked closely with aerodynamicists. The fender, while sculptured, includes a hard line along the top. Aerodynamicists wanted to divide the air flow along the top and sides of the vehicle. At the top of the tailgate, a slight rear spoiler helps raise overall fuel efficiency.

Reductions in wind drag were achieved through improved mounting application of the windshield and back light. Using the same leading-edge simulation technology as Formula One teams, aerodynamicists performed more than 1000 full-vehicle aerodynamic simulations to perfect the shape of the vehicle. The side mirrors were increased for better rear vision and were shaped to reduce wind noise, while special attention was paid to bring fit levels up to even higher standards.

Designers didn’t overlook the Ranger’s payload: the bed is taller, resulting in a larger load capacity. Despite the heightened size, the bed is easily accessible. Pockets above the wheel wells and along the side of the box allow truck owners to use timber inserts to carry full sheets of plasterboard or plywood.

The vehicle is sized perfectly for the narrow streets found in many parts of the world.

Comfortable, driver-oriented interior
Spacious and accommodating inside, the new Ranger offers a contemporary look and feel with features and comforts that are normally found in passenger cars. The new pick-up truck reflects expectations for dual use – work and family – that unite truck owners around the world.

The new Ranger stretches its interior dimensions, applies a smart, flexible door architecture for better accessibility in different cab styles and brings new features and technology to customers. The design gives Ranger its amazing dual personality – from on-the-job capability to enjoyable time off with the family afterward.

Like the exterior, the new Ranger interior explores the Built Ford Tough design ethos and embraces new influences to achieve its contemporary personality. It is as expressive as it is functional, and more driver-oriented.

“We looked outside the automotive industry at contemporary designs in many consumer products,” Metros explained. “From power tools to wristwatches, we wanted to apply that same sort of ruggedness and purposeful styling to the interior.”

The team borrowed from the look of power tools from both BOSCH ®1 and DEWALT®2 to bridge the gap between form and function. Through their design, these types of power tools convey strength and durability and are simple and ergonomic for the user.

Inside the instrument cluster, the G-Shock®3 watch was a major influence. “This approach encases delicate instruments within a strong protective housing. We were inspired by this design language as it applies to a tough truck, and created similar elements, including little chaplets to the outside of the cluster, to give it a more rugged appearance,” Metros said.

The centre section of the console is not simply purposeful but a beautifully designed component that houses the navigation screen, audio functions and controls for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system.

Housed within the console is a new short throw gear shifter on manual transmission models that reinforces the sporty nature of the interior design and Ranger’s fun-to-drive characteristics. A new, lever-style parking brake also has been adopted on the new Ranger for optimal driver orientation.

“The interior of the all-new Ranger has been comprehensively designed to be more driver focused in keeping with the dual purpose that it will see from consumers,” Metros added.

The modular design can be easily adapted to fit the varying interior trim in the Ranger series line-up. Through clever design, the cluster, heating and air conditioning controls, sound system, console and door panels can be switched to match the trim levels of the Ranger.

“Whether the new Ranger is utilitarian or top-of-the-line, the same contemporary design themes are carried throughout the interior,” Metros said. “The interior matches the exterior really well in its modern interpretation of Built Ford Tough.”

One of the keys to the new design was the ability of designers to stretch the interior dimensions without affecting the size of the cargo box.

Interior spaciousness and comfort
In customer clinics, reaction to the interior has been extremely positive. Respondents agreed that the spacious, comfortable Ranger interior feels more like a car than a pick-up truck. This is partly because the hip-to-heel dimension has been increased to provide more comfort.

Special attention was paid to interior materials on all models, according to Debbie Pascoe, colour and trim manager.

“Selecting materials for a truck has its own unique set of criteria and requirements,” she said. “Materials have to not only look contemporary and stylish but they also have to be durable and able to withstand abuse and punishment in work use.”

Pick-up drivers need space and want to be able to slide in and out of the vehicle easily. Controls and switches have to be larger so they can be easily used even if the driver is wearing work gloves.

Interior materials are subjected to constant abuse not seen in passenger cars. Seating materials take a beating from tools that are flung into the cabin or forgotten in a back pocket. Door panels must resist scuffing from boots laden with mud or concrete. Yet the new Ranger design team has achieved a contemporary look and feel that will appeal to the broad range of pick-up truck customers.

“We haven’t forgotten that many of these trucks are used for work,” Pascoe says. “But with careful selection of colours and materials, coupled with contemporary styling, they can serve a dual purpose and be enjoyed by the family. The new Ranger interior proves that tough doesn’t have to mean rough.”

Regardless of whether the owner is buying a functional work truck or a top-of-the-line model with leather interior, the Ranger is more than capable of serving a dual role.

The Ranger product range will feature up to four additional series offerings beyond the Ranger XLT model revealed in Sydney. Pascoe said that when the full range of Ranger models is revealed, Ford’s strategy to configure the truck coherently to a very broad range of customer wants will be clear – with quality of materials and craftsmanship important at every level.

Ranger Double Cab also makes full use of its spaciousness, offering up to 20 different areas of interior storage. Door pockets can easily fit water bottles and, available on selected models, a deep centre console with venting from the air conditioner helps keep up to six beverage cans cool. The glove box is big enough for a laptop computer, and there are more places to stow mobile phones and other small items on the console.

Underneath the rear seats, a convenient hidden storage area for electronic items or small packages can easily be accessed. Available on selected models, a centre armrest in the rear seat back folds down and includes two cup-holders.

All switches and primary controls are located within easy reach and are designed to help drivers keep their attention on the road with minimal distraction.

World premiere in Sydney
Metros is confident the all-new Ford Ranger, whose design process he led, will be one of the hits of the Australian International Motor Show. He hopes the news is closely watched by compact pick-up owners around the world.

“With the new Ranger, we’ve progressed with a truck that is fresh, modern and right for the times,” he said. “This newest Ranger is modern, capable and dynamic, and at the same time lives up to its roots as a very rugged truck.”

Launch images can be found HERE

Source: Ford Media

**russellw** · 19-10-2010, 10:04 PM

Two new Ford Duratorq TDCi diesel engines – a 2.2-litre, 110 kW (150 PS) I4 with up to 375 Nm of torque and the proven 3.2-litre, 147 kW (200 PS) I5 with a powerful 470 Nm of torque – now available in Ford Ranger

The next generation Ranger targets strides in fuel economy and range – a key objective for compact pick-up owners

An economical new 122 kW (166 PS) 2.5-litre Ford Duratec I4 petrol engine with more power than its major competitors joins the Ranger power train family

Selected diesel Ranger models will be available with new fuel-efficient six-speed transmissions. Petrol engines will be standard-fitted with a five-speed manual

Ford Ranger will offer more engine/transmission combinations including many with Stage V emissions capability. Power trains will be offered with 4x2 and 4x4 drive configurations

The all-new Ford Ranger doesn’t just look powerful, it’s got the muscle to back up its purposeful presence and confident capability while delivering major advancements in fuel efficiency.

The all-new Ranger provides what’s most important to pickup truck owners around the globe – responsive power to get the job done and great fuel economy to keep running costs low. Three new engines are offered:

A new 2.2-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi I4 diesel engine with peak torque output of 375 Nm and power output of 110 kW (150 PS).

A highly responsive and efficient new 3.2-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi I5 diesel engine with a substantial 470 Nm of torque and power rated at 147 kW (200 PS).

A 2.5-litre Ford Duratec I4 petrol engine with more power at 122 kW (166 PS). It can be configured for E100 flexible fuel capability or after-market up-fitted to run on CNG or LPG.

“Great engines are the heart of any pick-up truck’s capability,” said John Tatge, chief programme engineer for the new Ranger. “And equipping this all-new Ranger with great engines was a top priority for us because it’s a top priority for our customers around the world.”

Ford is showcasing all three new Ranger engines at the Australian International Motor Show. It’s a demonstration of how Ford has comprehensively engineered the new Ranger to compete in 180 markets around the world.

Revealed for the first time in Sydney, the all-new Ford Ranger makes fuel efficiency a key reason to buy. With advanced turbocharging, the new engine provides better fuel economy, more power and reduced emissions for a new generation of Ranger customers.

And for the first time, selected Ranger diesel models will be available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission to provide reduced engine rpm and extend the range of Ranger on long highway trips or in city traffic. Petrol models have a standard five-speed manual transmission.

The powertrain family is available in either two- or four-wheel drive versions with five- and six-speed transmissions, both manual and automatic.

A variety of final drive ratios, from 3.31 to 5.3, will be available depending on the drive configuration and whether the vehicle is a low- or high-ride model. This helps owners configure the new Ranger when it is heavily loaded, provides strong off-the-line acceleration and excellent pulling characteristics, and optimises fuel economy.

Impressive Duratorq TDCi diesels now in Ranger powertrain lineup
The biggest news in the Ford Ranger powertrain lineup is the availability of two new engines from Ford’s state-of-the-art common-rail diesel engine family. Coupled with new six-speed manual or automatic transmissions on selected models, the new diesels provide exceptional torque, driveability and fuel economy.

The two advanced diesels are combined with the new six-speed transmissions desired by truck customers throughout the world.

Already a proven performer in commercial vehicles like the Ford Transit, the availability of the four-cylinder 2.2-litre and five-cylinder 3.2-litre diesel engines signal Ranger is ready to take on the compact pickup truck segment. Most importantly, the new engines target significant advancements in fuel economy, extending the distance between fill-ups.

Numerous refinements have been made to the all-new Ranger, including the implementation of the latest in fuel delivery technology with a new high-pressure fuel system. The fuel delivery system has been precisely tailored and calibrated for combustion efficiency and brings fuel economy ratings up without affecting power levels.

The engine range is calibrated to meet different power and emission requirements across the globe.

For areas of the world with stringent Stage V emission standards, Ranger can be fitted with an MT82 six-speed manual transmission or available 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission. The transmission has been designed for both 4x2 and 4x4 versions, is lightweight and includes strengthened internals that have been designed and tested to global commercial standards.

Fuel economy for the economical 2.2-litre diesel – yet to be officially certified – is expected to make this Ranger among the best in its segment. With its 80-litre-capacity fuel tank, the Ranger 2.2-litre TDCi is able to pass a lot of fuel stations before needing to fill up.

For maximum towing capability or highway cruising, the 2.2-litre diesel has a generous 110 kW (150 PS) of power at 3700 rpm and a stump-pulling 375 Nm of torque between 1500-2500 rpm.

The high-performing 2.2-litre diesel delivers impressive towing capability.

Transmissions are specifically calibrated and their low levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) ensure that Ranger has a quiet interior cabin environment free from unwanted road and powertrain noise.

Leading the way in the sport compact pick-up truck class will be the availability of the potent five-cylinder, 3.2-litre common-rail diesel powerplant – a first for Ranger.

Developing 147 kW (200 PS) at 3000 rpm and a 470 Nm of torque at 2750 rpm, the 3.2-litre diesel builds on Ranger’s versatility and combines to bring long-haul driving, towing capabilities and smooth shifting to the long list of Ranger’s capabilities.

The four-valve, in-line five-cylinder unit has a bore of 89 millimetres and stroke of 101 millimetres for a displacement of 3127 cubic centimetres.

With fuel economy high on the priority list for sport pick-up truck buyers, the 3.2-litre Duratorq TDCi responds with amazing efficiency given its powerful torque. It is available in both two- and four-wheel drive versions.

A new 6R80 six-speed automatic delivers smooth, car-like performance with smooth shifting. Highway mileage for the two-wheel drive automatic is expected to be outstanding, bettering its major competitors.

The 3.2-litre diesel meets Stage V emission targets and, in keeping with Ford’s global initiatives for ‘greener’ vehicles, the diesel engines also meet Brazil’s PROCONVE L6 standard.

Developed and tested in many areas across the world, both diesel engines have been designed and calibrated to meet the varied fuel octane, cetane and sulphur levels available at the pump for all altitudes and climates. Throughout the development process, engines and transmissions were subjected to extreme loads, surfaces and different climates to ensure that the all-new Ranger would perform to Ford’s Tough Truck requirements.

New six-speed transmissions for Ranger
The all-new Ranger features new automatic and manual six-speed transmissions for great responsiveness and fuel efficiency. The new six-speeds are ideally suited to the torque output of the new diesel engine range.

With capabilities that rival the most advanced six-speed transmissions found on passenger cars, Ranger can respond to virtually any driving condition and style with increased performance, functionality and refined shift qualities with its new Ford 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission.

Included in the gearbox is a feature called Sequential Shift Control that offers a host of adaptive and performance modes as well as manual control through sequential manual shifting. This level of sophistication is unique in the segment.

One of the key truck capability features included in the Ford 6R80 is Grade Control Logic. When driving downhill, the transmission will automatically downshift to provide additional braking from the powertrain when it senses the driver is applying the brakes.

If the driver happens to be in the manual mode and has to accelerate in an emergency, the transmission can downshift to a lower gear, providing extra acceleration.

The new six-speed also has the ability to adapt to the driver’s style through Driver Recognition software. By determining the current driving style, including acceleration and deceleration rates, brake and throttle applications and cornering speeds, the transmission ensures the vehicle is in the right gear at the right time without undesired gear shifts.

“The driver recognition feature allows a tailored driving experience and the transmission can adapt to different styles at both ends of the spectrum,” said Tim Postgate, transmission calibration supervisor. “Through the transmission software, more normalised driving will deliver significant benefits in terms of refinement and fuel economy. Sharper responses and more sporty, defined shifts are felt in the performance mode of the transmission.”

Ranger can also be fitted with a Ford MT82 six-speed manual transmission with its short, car-like gear shifter – well positioned ergonomically for the driver – providing crisp, precise shifting matched perfectly to the generous torque output of the new diesels. An upshift indicator in the instrument panel helps coach drivers on the best gearing for fuel economy.

The new Ranger is also equipped with an electronically controlled transfer case that allows drivers to shift from 4x2 to 4x4 anytime via a switch conveniently located on the console. If extra torque or additional downhill braking is needed, low-range gearing also can be enabled.

Electric locking rear differential is available on diesel 4x2 and 4x4 Ranger models in combination with Anti-Lock Brake System or Electronic Stability Program.

All-new petrol engine for Ranger
Wherever the all-new Ranger is sold and whatever chores it needs to accomplish, the 2.5-litre Ford Duratec petrol engine has been enhanced with more power, better fuel economy and reduced emissions. It comes with the Ford MT75 five-speed manual transmission.

Power is increased 24 percent over the previous generation engine. The Ranger 2.5-litre Ford Duratec engine boasts 122 kW (166 PS) of power at 6000 rpm. Torque is increased to 226 Nm.

Constructed with an aluminium block and high-flow aluminium cylinder head, the engine has a bore of 89 millimetres with a stroke of 100 millimetres for a displacement of 2488.5 cubic centimetres.

The all-new Ford Ranger engine features cast aluminium pistons fitted into the cast iron bore liners.

The 2.5-litre Ford Duratec engine also includes variable intake cam geometry to provide the optimal balance of power output and fuel economy. Fuel delivery is handled through a sequential multiport fuel injection system.

Hydrocarbon and nitrous oxide emissions are reduced throughout the engine operating range. This is particularly important during cold starts, when emission levels often are highest.

Depending on local market requirements, petrol emission levels are set to meet up to Stage IV requirements. Specific calibrations were designed for engines that run on E100.

Testing across five continents, both in laboratories and on roads, ensured the powertrains meet local emission standards with available fuels at differing octane levels.

From the 2.5-litre Ford Duratec I4 petrol engine with 122 kW (166 PS) of power and 226 Nm of torque, to the brawny 3.2-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi with its impressive 470 Nm of torque, the all-new Ranger has the muscle for today’s compact pick-up truck buyer.

Source: Ford Media

**TUF_302** · 20-10-2010, 07:33 PM

Whoa, that new 5cyl Motor sounds great!!, thats some serious mumbo in that thing

schultzie · 19-10-2010, 10:20 PM

all we need now is pricing, and when we can place our orders