According to Ford Motor Company, the new model, shown at Nampo, was developed in response to feedback from customers who needed more capability than the current Ranger offers. The company describes it as a “new bigger bakkie” engineered for tougher applications across industries such as mining, farming, forestry, infrastructure and emergency services.

The Ranger Super Duty combines the existing Ranger’s safety and technology features with heavier duty capability. Ford says the focus was on enabling the vehicle to tow more, carry more and handle more demanding work environments.

“Ranger Super Duty blends the smart features and advanced safety of the current Ranger with heavy-duty capability and delivers what our buyers told us they needed but couldn’t get anywhere else. This enhanced capability of the vehicle will give owners the flexibility they need to get the big jobs done, with the confidence of a factory-backed warranty,” says Neale Hill, President Africa Operations of Ford.

Unlike the regular Ranger range, which balances lifestyle and commercial use, the Super Duty places a stronger emphasis on heavy duty applications and vehicle modification potential. Ford says it is also intended to appeal to overlanding enthusiasts who need a tougher platform for towing larger caravans and travelling in remote areas.

The vehicle is being developed by Ford’s International Markets Group Product Development team, which includes around 1 500 designers, engineers and specialists.

Ford plans to offer the Ranger Super Duty in both single cab and double cab body styles, allowing it to be adapted for different industries and uses.

“This will be a first of its kind model introduction in South Africa, and aligns with Ford’s vision to match superior product capability directly with customer needs,” continued Hill.

The company also confirmed that customers will be able to work with approved Ford Pro Convertors to customise the vehicle for specialised tasks or recreational use.