Ford is launching a chassis cab variant of the Ranger pickup truck in Europe, making it perfect for specialized conversions to cover the specific needs of different customers and industries.
The Ranger chassis cab is available in single-cab and work-oriented XL body styles, offering the proven combination of four-wheel-drive, Ford’s EcoBlue diesel powertrain, and tough body-on-frame construction.
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Ford expects that specialist industries like construction, utilities, forestry, military and rescue operators will be highly interested in the new Ranger chassis cab, which comes with a towing capacity of 3,500kg and allows up to a generous gross vehicle mass of 3,270 kg.
In addition, the single cab bodystyle permits a maximum conversion length of 2,518 mm behind the cab. The standard four-wheel-drive system with selectable low range and the 237 mm of ground clearance enable a wading depth of up to 800 mm, so challenging terrain won’t be a problem.
Customers will also benefit from Ford’s own network of more than 160 Qualified Vehicle Modifier converters (QVM) in 13 markets, which offer warranty-approved bespoke vehicles for specialist applications.
“We’ve built the Ranger chassis cab for customers who work in the most demanding environments and need a tough, off-road vehicle to carry their specialist kit,” said Paul Baynes, conversions manager in Ford Europe’s Commercial Vehicles division. “Combined with Ford’s extensive QVM converter network, Ranger chassis cab enables our customers to get the job done, wherever they work.”
Ford has worked closely with converters to optimize the Ranger chassis for a range of conversions, including box bodies, tippers, and cherry pickers. All QVM conversions will come with a warranty that matches the one offered in Ford’s standard model range.
The new Ranger chassis cab is powered by a 2.0-liter EcoBlue four-cylinder diesel producing 167 HP (170 PS) and 309 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque that is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. The selectable four-wheel-drive system features a simple control in the center console, allowing drivers to switch between rear- and four-wheel-drive.
Sales of the new Ford Ranger chassis cab will begin in Europe in January when the order books will open.