Pretoria, South Africa, January 9, 2024 – The Ford Ranger, a symbol of quality, reliability, and durability, has captivated enthusiasts worldwide with its robust performance. Let’s delve into the intriguing process of how each Ford Ranger is meticulously crafted and the impressive facts that make it a standout choice for consumers globally.
1. Global Reach:
- The Ranger has become a global sensation, being sold in over 180 markets around the world. Designed and engineered by a global team headquartered in Australia, it continues to earn accolades for its exceptional quality.
2. Rigorous Testing:
- The Ranger undergoes real-world tests in some of the world’s most challenging terrains and climates. From the harsh outback of Australia to the icy landscapes of Scandinavia, the rugged terrain of South Africa, the mountainous regions of the Americas, and the humid jungles of Asia, it proves its mettle in temperatures ranging from -40°C to well over 50°C.
3. Worldwide Production Hubs:
- The Ford Ranger is manufactured in five production hubs globally, including Ford Thailand Manufacturing (FTM), AutoAlliance Thailand (AAT), Silverton Assembly Plant in South Africa, Michigan Assembly Plant in the U.S., and the Pacheco Assembly Plant in Argentina. Additionally, there are Completely Knocked Down (CKD) operations in Vietnam and Cambodia.
4. Production Efficiency:
- A Ford Ranger rolls off the production line every two minutes at Ford factories in South Africa (Silverton Assembly Plant) and Thailand (Ford Thailand Manufacturing), showcasing the efficiency of the manufacturing process.
5. Robotic Precision:
- Nearly 600 robots contribute to the assembly process, particularly on the chassis line. Each chassis takes around three hours to build, emphasizing precision and attention to detail.
6. Paint Perfection:
- The body of each Ranger undergoes 3,000–4,000 spot welds and is immersed in 12 chemical baths for corrosion protection. The innovative 3-Wet High Solids Paint system ensures each vehicle is covered with approximately eight liters of paint, enhancing durability while minimizing environmental impact.
7. Advanced Paint Inspection:
- Post-painting, every Ranger undergoes scrutiny through a state-of-the-art paint scanner, detecting coating defects as small as 0.2 mm², ensuring a flawless finish.
8. Stringent Quality Checks:
- With over 2,700 parts in each Ford Ranger, the vehicles undergo nearly 1,000 quality confirmation checks before reaching dealerships. Water tests, electronic diagnostics, and electrical current-based tests are performed, meeting Ford’s stringent quality expectations.
9. Water Test Precision:
- The Water Test subjects each Ranger to a controlled pressure test with water for 20 minutes, simulating the worst rainstorm imaginable. Auditors meticulously inspect seals to ensure no water breaches, emphasizing the vehicle’s resilience.
10. Final Hurdles:
- Before leaving the factory, each Ranger conquers three final hurdles – the Squeak and Rattle Track, High-Speed Track, and Rough Road Track. A thorough inspection ensures every vehicle meets the brand’s high standards.
In conclusion, the Ford Ranger’s journey from conception to production is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and innovative technologies that make it a preferred choice for adventure enthusiasts worldwide.
