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The Ford Ranger Raptor Thread
- Thread starter FiestaST
- Start date
FiestaST
Honorary Master
This new Ford Ranger Raptor advert has just been banned
Australia’s advertising watchdog has banned a Ford Ranger Raptor television advertisement for appearing “reckless” and “unsafe”.
According to marketing and media industry news publication Mumbrella, Australia’s Ad Standards said the commercial in question depicted what “would constitute unsafe driving” and showed “reckless” driving techniques.
Complainants said the advert “encouraged unsafe and destructive driving by others”.
Ford Australia, however, argued that the scenes were filmed on private land – with a professional driver behind the wheel of the performance bakkie – adding no other vehicles nor any pedestrians were anywhere to be seen in the commercial.
“The Ranger Raptor is depicted driving off-road for the duration of the Ranger Raptor TVC. Due to the loose nature of the surfaces it travels over, at times some terrain can be seen being displaced by the Ranger Raptor’s off-road tyres,” the Blue Oval brand said, according to Mumbrella.
“Ford feels this is indicative of the off-road surface rather than any sort of dangerous driving (such as burn-outs), and adds that this was a private testing facility with all driving approved by the owner of the land.”
However, Ad Standards ruled against the brand.
“The speed that the vehicle is seen travelling down the dirt road, dramatised by the sound of the engine and filming techniques, appeared reckless. The panel considered the speed of the vehicle appeared unsafe when the vehicle became airborne,” the advertising authority ruled.
While the offending advert has since been suspended, we’ve managed to dig up a clip (courtesy of Ford New Zealand) showing exactly the same scenes, albeit bearing slightly different text and without the voiceover. Watch the advertisement below (alternatively, watch the Australian version at the Mumbrella link above)…
https://www.carmag.co.za/news/ford-ranger-raptor-advert-just-banned/
Australia’s advertising watchdog has banned a Ford Ranger Raptor television advertisement for appearing “reckless” and “unsafe”.
According to marketing and media industry news publication Mumbrella, Australia’s Ad Standards said the commercial in question depicted what “would constitute unsafe driving” and showed “reckless” driving techniques.
Complainants said the advert “encouraged unsafe and destructive driving by others”.
Ford Australia, however, argued that the scenes were filmed on private land – with a professional driver behind the wheel of the performance bakkie – adding no other vehicles nor any pedestrians were anywhere to be seen in the commercial.
“The Ranger Raptor is depicted driving off-road for the duration of the Ranger Raptor TVC. Due to the loose nature of the surfaces it travels over, at times some terrain can be seen being displaced by the Ranger Raptor’s off-road tyres,” the Blue Oval brand said, according to Mumbrella.
“Ford feels this is indicative of the off-road surface rather than any sort of dangerous driving (such as burn-outs), and adds that this was a private testing facility with all driving approved by the owner of the land.”
However, Ad Standards ruled against the brand.
“The speed that the vehicle is seen travelling down the dirt road, dramatised by the sound of the engine and filming techniques, appeared reckless. The panel considered the speed of the vehicle appeared unsafe when the vehicle became airborne,” the advertising authority ruled.
While the offending advert has since been suspended, we’ve managed to dig up a clip (courtesy of Ford New Zealand) showing exactly the same scenes, albeit bearing slightly different text and without the voiceover. Watch the advertisement below (alternatively, watch the Australian version at the Mumbrella link above)…
https://www.carmag.co.za/news/ford-ranger-raptor-advert-just-banned/
I still feel let down by Ford, when they mentioned raptor I thought we were getting THE Ford Raptor...
Not just a Ranger with panels and some tech.
https://www.ford.com/cmslibs/conten..._content/renditions/cq5dam.web.1280.1280.jpeg
Not just a Ranger with panels and some tech.
https://www.ford.com/cmslibs/conten..._content/renditions/cq5dam.web.1280.1280.jpeg
ToxicBunny
Oi! Leave me out of this...
Why would you think they would specifically make a RHD version of a vehicle that isn't available in RHD anywhere in the world? Its also over 2.2m wide which is nearly half a meter wider than the Ranger... so too damn big for our roads.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Nope, your expectations were just wrong.
ToxicBunny
Oi! Leave me out of this...
Also, lets price it up...
I get to a figure of around R1.25m for the F150 Raptor base model.... WITHOUT factoring in shipping or conversion costs.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Indeed.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
New Ranger Raptor, Ranger and Everest to be built in SA: Ford preps for performance bakkies, transforms Silverton factory
• Extensive upgrades to enable installed capacity of up to 168 000 vehicles per year
• Preparation for 2019 models, including first-ever Ford Ranger Raptor
• Installation of 25 new automated robots in Body Shop
Ford’s Silverton Assembly in Pretoria has undergone an extensive transformation in preparation for the start of production of its 2019 vehicle range, comprising the highly anticipated new Ford Ranger Raptor as well as the new Ranger and Everest.
Having benefitted from an investment of almost R3-billion to expand its installed capacity of up to 168 000 vehicles per year, a comprehensive programme of upgrades and changes have been implemented at the plant over a period of more than 18 months.
Transformation
"The Silverton Assembly Plant has been transformed to achieve our highest-ever installed capacity," said Ockert Berry, VP of Operations, Ford Middle East and Africa.
"This required a total rethink and re-engineering of many of our established production processes and operations throughout the plant to improve throughput, efficiencies and ergonomics to reach the projected production targets.
"While gearing the plant up for the higher volumes was a key objective, this had to be managed alongside a significant increase in production complexity associated with the unique characteristics of the Ranger Raptor, the introduction of a new engine programme, and extensive product enhancements planned for the 2019 Ranger and Everest," he added.
Adding further to the challenge was the requirement for the engineering changes to be implemented without significantly impacting the ongoing production of Ford’s existing models, which are currently assembled at a rate of almost 10 000 vehicles per month for the domestic and export markets.
In many cases this was made possible by means of the modular assembly of machines and components at the relevant supplier companies, with just the installation taking place at the Silverton plant. A lot of work was also conducted during the December shut-down period last year.
Some of the most noteworthy upgrades were introduced right at the start of the production line with the installation of 25 new robots in the Body Shop for the welding and assembly of the front and rear floors, body sides, cab and rear loadbox.
A total of 115 fully automated robots now manage the complex handling and welding of components in conjunction with a mix of robotic and manual weld controllers.
Meeting the Body Shop’s requirements for the delivery of higher volumes of body panels was achieved by adding new accumulating conveyor buffer systems, with capacity increases almost doubled for most of the stations – including a completely new triple-decker layout for the underbody conveyor.
"Commencing with the assembly process, in order to meet global manufacturing requirements and volume demands, we introduced sub-assembly zones for numerous areas on the line so that a lot of the preparation work is done by the time the parts are fitted to the chassis or body of the vehicle.
"We now have sub-assembly lines for the engines, suspension, axles and doors," Berry explains.
How to build a Ford in SA
The doors are removed from the vehicle at the start of the line, and diverted onto a completely separate, all-new line where the electrical components and switches, rubbers, windows and trim panels are fitted. This enables the assembly process for the interior of the vehicle to happen simultaneously, thus dramatically speeding up the process.
The “doors off” system also allows easy access to the cabin of the vehicle, enabling easier fitment of the wiring harness, carpets and roof lining, as well as the bulkier items such as the dashboard and seats.
On the topic of seats, an innovative new conveyor system was installed that offloads the seats outside the building, places them on a conveyer system that transports the seats through the roof of the plant and delivers them to the vehicle assembly line for fitment to the near-complete body. This process creates its own buffer system, and alleviates traffic congestion in the plant.
The chassis line also underwent a complete overhaul. Where the plant previously relied on a turning fixture at the start the line to turn the chassis upside down for easier fitment of the suspension and axle components, the chassis is now delivered to the line already inverted. This saves time and frees up space for the expansion from 13 to 29 stations, leaving only one turning fixture further down the line.
The front and rear suspension struts arrive at the main chassis line having already been assembled in new dedicated sub-assembly areas, making it a simple process of bolting the units into place.
A new monorail conveyor system was added to transport the axles, which are pre-assembled off-line, through to the chassis line, and this was engineered to accommodate the standard units fitted to the normal Ranger and Everest, as well as the beefed-up, wider versions that are used on the Ranger Raptor. Similarly, the pedestals that carry the chassis along the production line had to be re-engineered to fit both Ranger configurations.
The Ranger Raptor features a reinforced chassis supported by completely different front and rear suspension compared to the standard Ranger.
Up front this unique Ford Performance model is equipped with heavy-duty springs and sturdy aluminium upper and lower control arms in place of the welded steel units of the standard Ranger.
At the rear, the Ranger Raptor features a multi-link solid rear axle with Watt’s linkage that has more in common with the set-up employed on the Everest than the normal Ranger.
Combine that with motorsport-derived Position Sensitive Damping FOX Shocks on all four corners, plus huge ventilated disc brakes all-round, and it becomes clear how different the ground-breaking Ranger Raptor is relative to its siblings.
"Accommodating the Ranger Raptor’s long-travel suspension, 150mm wider track, 168mm wider body and much bigger tyres required significant upgrades at numerous points along the assembly line," Berry states. "There are around 350 parts that are unique to the Ranger Raptor, which adds a lot of complexity to the line."
New engines
One of the biggest updates for the 2019 Ford Ranger and Everest will be the launch of the new-generation four-cylinder turbodiesel engines, including the advanced 157kW Bi-Turbo unit that will power the Ranger Raptor and selected Ranger and Everest models. The existing Duratorq TDCi engines, in 2.2-litre four-cylinder and 3.2-litre five-cylinder guises, are also fitted on the assembly line.
Accordingly, with the added engine derivatives and increased volumes, a new engine line was installed, incorporating a new floor conveyor system with additional stations.
Here the engine ancillaries, such as the alternator, air-conditioner, drive belts and engine mounts are fitted, followed by the gearbox, prior to installation on the chassis in order to speed up the production process.
The chassis line also had to be adapted for the addition of Ford’s new 10-speed automatic gearbox that will be introduced with the new Bi-Turbo engines, along with the carry-over six-speed automatic, and the five and six-speed manual transmissions used on various models.
"Upgrading the Silverton Assembly Plant has been a monumental task spanning more than a year and a half. It has truly pushed our engineering and production teams to come up with innovative and creative solutions.
But we are now ready to begin a new chapter for Ford in South Africa as we create new opportunities with our highest-ever assembly capacity, with an expanded model range that drives quality in all areas," Berry concludes.
https://www.wheels24.co.za/OffRoad_...bakkies-transforms-silverton-factory-20181115
• Extensive upgrades to enable installed capacity of up to 168 000 vehicles per year
• Preparation for 2019 models, including first-ever Ford Ranger Raptor
• Installation of 25 new automated robots in Body Shop
Ford’s Silverton Assembly in Pretoria has undergone an extensive transformation in preparation for the start of production of its 2019 vehicle range, comprising the highly anticipated new Ford Ranger Raptor as well as the new Ranger and Everest.
Having benefitted from an investment of almost R3-billion to expand its installed capacity of up to 168 000 vehicles per year, a comprehensive programme of upgrades and changes have been implemented at the plant over a period of more than 18 months.
Transformation
"The Silverton Assembly Plant has been transformed to achieve our highest-ever installed capacity," said Ockert Berry, VP of Operations, Ford Middle East and Africa.
"This required a total rethink and re-engineering of many of our established production processes and operations throughout the plant to improve throughput, efficiencies and ergonomics to reach the projected production targets.
"While gearing the plant up for the higher volumes was a key objective, this had to be managed alongside a significant increase in production complexity associated with the unique characteristics of the Ranger Raptor, the introduction of a new engine programme, and extensive product enhancements planned for the 2019 Ranger and Everest," he added.
Adding further to the challenge was the requirement for the engineering changes to be implemented without significantly impacting the ongoing production of Ford’s existing models, which are currently assembled at a rate of almost 10 000 vehicles per month for the domestic and export markets.
In many cases this was made possible by means of the modular assembly of machines and components at the relevant supplier companies, with just the installation taking place at the Silverton plant. A lot of work was also conducted during the December shut-down period last year.
Some of the most noteworthy upgrades were introduced right at the start of the production line with the installation of 25 new robots in the Body Shop for the welding and assembly of the front and rear floors, body sides, cab and rear loadbox.
A total of 115 fully automated robots now manage the complex handling and welding of components in conjunction with a mix of robotic and manual weld controllers.
Meeting the Body Shop’s requirements for the delivery of higher volumes of body panels was achieved by adding new accumulating conveyor buffer systems, with capacity increases almost doubled for most of the stations – including a completely new triple-decker layout for the underbody conveyor.
"Commencing with the assembly process, in order to meet global manufacturing requirements and volume demands, we introduced sub-assembly zones for numerous areas on the line so that a lot of the preparation work is done by the time the parts are fitted to the chassis or body of the vehicle.
"We now have sub-assembly lines for the engines, suspension, axles and doors," Berry explains.
How to build a Ford in SA
The doors are removed from the vehicle at the start of the line, and diverted onto a completely separate, all-new line where the electrical components and switches, rubbers, windows and trim panels are fitted. This enables the assembly process for the interior of the vehicle to happen simultaneously, thus dramatically speeding up the process.
The “doors off” system also allows easy access to the cabin of the vehicle, enabling easier fitment of the wiring harness, carpets and roof lining, as well as the bulkier items such as the dashboard and seats.
On the topic of seats, an innovative new conveyor system was installed that offloads the seats outside the building, places them on a conveyer system that transports the seats through the roof of the plant and delivers them to the vehicle assembly line for fitment to the near-complete body. This process creates its own buffer system, and alleviates traffic congestion in the plant.
The chassis line also underwent a complete overhaul. Where the plant previously relied on a turning fixture at the start the line to turn the chassis upside down for easier fitment of the suspension and axle components, the chassis is now delivered to the line already inverted. This saves time and frees up space for the expansion from 13 to 29 stations, leaving only one turning fixture further down the line.
The front and rear suspension struts arrive at the main chassis line having already been assembled in new dedicated sub-assembly areas, making it a simple process of bolting the units into place.
A new monorail conveyor system was added to transport the axles, which are pre-assembled off-line, through to the chassis line, and this was engineered to accommodate the standard units fitted to the normal Ranger and Everest, as well as the beefed-up, wider versions that are used on the Ranger Raptor. Similarly, the pedestals that carry the chassis along the production line had to be re-engineered to fit both Ranger configurations.
The Ranger Raptor features a reinforced chassis supported by completely different front and rear suspension compared to the standard Ranger.
Up front this unique Ford Performance model is equipped with heavy-duty springs and sturdy aluminium upper and lower control arms in place of the welded steel units of the standard Ranger.
At the rear, the Ranger Raptor features a multi-link solid rear axle with Watt’s linkage that has more in common with the set-up employed on the Everest than the normal Ranger.
Combine that with motorsport-derived Position Sensitive Damping FOX Shocks on all four corners, plus huge ventilated disc brakes all-round, and it becomes clear how different the ground-breaking Ranger Raptor is relative to its siblings.
"Accommodating the Ranger Raptor’s long-travel suspension, 150mm wider track, 168mm wider body and much bigger tyres required significant upgrades at numerous points along the assembly line," Berry states. "There are around 350 parts that are unique to the Ranger Raptor, which adds a lot of complexity to the line."
New engines
One of the biggest updates for the 2019 Ford Ranger and Everest will be the launch of the new-generation four-cylinder turbodiesel engines, including the advanced 157kW Bi-Turbo unit that will power the Ranger Raptor and selected Ranger and Everest models. The existing Duratorq TDCi engines, in 2.2-litre four-cylinder and 3.2-litre five-cylinder guises, are also fitted on the assembly line.
Accordingly, with the added engine derivatives and increased volumes, a new engine line was installed, incorporating a new floor conveyor system with additional stations.
Here the engine ancillaries, such as the alternator, air-conditioner, drive belts and engine mounts are fitted, followed by the gearbox, prior to installation on the chassis in order to speed up the production process.
The chassis line also had to be adapted for the addition of Ford’s new 10-speed automatic gearbox that will be introduced with the new Bi-Turbo engines, along with the carry-over six-speed automatic, and the five and six-speed manual transmissions used on various models.
"Upgrading the Silverton Assembly Plant has been a monumental task spanning more than a year and a half. It has truly pushed our engineering and production teams to come up with innovative and creative solutions.
But we are now ready to begin a new chapter for Ford in South Africa as we create new opportunities with our highest-ever assembly capacity, with an expanded model range that drives quality in all areas," Berry concludes.
https://www.wheels24.co.za/OffRoad_...bakkies-transforms-silverton-factory-20181115
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Building the Ford Ranger Raptor
Ford South Africa is gearing up for expanded production in 2019 at its upgraded plant in Silverton, Pretoria and Cars.co.za Journalist, Gero Lilleike, headed to Silverton to help build the pre-production units of the Ranger Raptor which is due to launch locally in the first half of 2019.
Ford South Africa’s plant in Silverton is where the popular Ranger bakkie and Everest SUV are built for local consumption and export markets, but it’s also where the highly-anticipated, high-performance Ranger Raptor bakkie will come to life in the not-too-distant future.
In an effort streamline production and accommodate the production of the Ranger Raptor, Ford has invested nearly R3-billion to expand and upgrade its Silverton plant, a process which has taken more than 18 months to complete. A wide range of upgrades and enhancements have been implemented at the plant, including the installation of 25 new robots in the Body Shop. A total of 115 fully automated robots are now responsible for handling and welding of components. Installed production capacity has increased and up to 168 000 vehicles are expected to roll off the production line in 2019.
Ockert Berry, VP of Operations, Ford Middle East and Africa commented, “The Silverton Assembly Plant has been transformed to achieve our highest-ever installed capacity. This required a total rethink and re-engineering of many of our established production processes and operations throughout the plant to improve throughput, efficiencies and ergonomics to reach the projected production targets.”
“While gearing the plant up for the higher volumes was a key objective, this had to be managed alongside a significant increase in production complexity associated with the unique characteristics of the Ranger Raptor, the introduction of a new engine programme, and extensive product enhancements planned for the 2019 Ranger and Everest,” Berry states.
Building the Ranger Raptor
The forthcoming Ranger Raptor brings its own set of complications to the production line as the Ranger Raptor is vastly different to the standard Ranger model and the assembly line has therefore been re-engineered to accommodate both Ranger configurations.
“Accommodating the Ranger Raptor’s long-travel suspension, 150mm wider track, 168mm wider body and much bigger tyres required significant upgrades at numerous points along the assembly line,” Berry states. “There are around 350 parts that are unique to the Ranger Raptor, which adds a lot of complexity to the line.”
A new engine line has also been installed to accommodate the new 157 kW 2.0-litre bi-turbodiesel engine that will power the Ranger Raptor but which is also expected to be offered in selected Everest and Ranger derivatives in 2019 along with a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
Seeing Silverton plant in full operation is a fascinating experience but Ford arranged a unique event that would place local media representatives on the production line to work on actual pre-production Ranger Raptor units.
The pre-production Ranger Raptor units are built to expose any production issues but they also undergo various quality and safety tests before full-scale production starts.
Media representatives were split into groups and positioned at various stations on the production line under the watchful eye of trained professionals who would offer guidance and support but also to ensure that quality control was maintained.
Gero was positioned at the tailgate station with the task of installing the tailgate mechanism on various Ranger derivatives as well as the pre-production Ranger Raptor units. He was guided by a veteran of the trade, a friendly fellow by the name of Jacob, who has been employed at Silverton plant for 33 years. Jacob’s expertise proved to be invaluable in helping to get the mechanism installed in time without having to bring the entire production line to a grinding halt.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/building-the-ford-ranger-raptor/45820/
Ford South Africa is gearing up for expanded production in 2019 at its upgraded plant in Silverton, Pretoria and Cars.co.za Journalist, Gero Lilleike, headed to Silverton to help build the pre-production units of the Ranger Raptor which is due to launch locally in the first half of 2019.
Ford South Africa’s plant in Silverton is where the popular Ranger bakkie and Everest SUV are built for local consumption and export markets, but it’s also where the highly-anticipated, high-performance Ranger Raptor bakkie will come to life in the not-too-distant future.
In an effort streamline production and accommodate the production of the Ranger Raptor, Ford has invested nearly R3-billion to expand and upgrade its Silverton plant, a process which has taken more than 18 months to complete. A wide range of upgrades and enhancements have been implemented at the plant, including the installation of 25 new robots in the Body Shop. A total of 115 fully automated robots are now responsible for handling and welding of components. Installed production capacity has increased and up to 168 000 vehicles are expected to roll off the production line in 2019.
Ockert Berry, VP of Operations, Ford Middle East and Africa commented, “The Silverton Assembly Plant has been transformed to achieve our highest-ever installed capacity. This required a total rethink and re-engineering of many of our established production processes and operations throughout the plant to improve throughput, efficiencies and ergonomics to reach the projected production targets.”
“While gearing the plant up for the higher volumes was a key objective, this had to be managed alongside a significant increase in production complexity associated with the unique characteristics of the Ranger Raptor, the introduction of a new engine programme, and extensive product enhancements planned for the 2019 Ranger and Everest,” Berry states.
Building the Ranger Raptor
The forthcoming Ranger Raptor brings its own set of complications to the production line as the Ranger Raptor is vastly different to the standard Ranger model and the assembly line has therefore been re-engineered to accommodate both Ranger configurations.
“Accommodating the Ranger Raptor’s long-travel suspension, 150mm wider track, 168mm wider body and much bigger tyres required significant upgrades at numerous points along the assembly line,” Berry states. “There are around 350 parts that are unique to the Ranger Raptor, which adds a lot of complexity to the line.”
A new engine line has also been installed to accommodate the new 157 kW 2.0-litre bi-turbodiesel engine that will power the Ranger Raptor but which is also expected to be offered in selected Everest and Ranger derivatives in 2019 along with a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
Seeing Silverton plant in full operation is a fascinating experience but Ford arranged a unique event that would place local media representatives on the production line to work on actual pre-production Ranger Raptor units.
The pre-production Ranger Raptor units are built to expose any production issues but they also undergo various quality and safety tests before full-scale production starts.
Media representatives were split into groups and positioned at various stations on the production line under the watchful eye of trained professionals who would offer guidance and support but also to ensure that quality control was maintained.
Gero was positioned at the tailgate station with the task of installing the tailgate mechanism on various Ranger derivatives as well as the pre-production Ranger Raptor units. He was guided by a veteran of the trade, a friendly fellow by the name of Jacob, who has been employed at Silverton plant for 33 years. Jacob’s expertise proved to be invaluable in helping to get the mechanism installed in time without having to bring the entire production line to a grinding halt.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/building-the-ford-ranger-raptor/45820/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Ford commences all-new Ranger Raptor engine production in Port Elizabeth
The Ford Struandale Engine Plant commenced production of the new-generation diesel engines that are set to power the new Ford Ranger Raptor and selected Ranger and Everest models that will be launched in the first half of 2019.
Assembled on an all-new high-tech assembly line, the start of production for the new engine programme marks an important milestone for the Port Elizabeth facility, which opened its doors in 1964 and has produced over 3.4-million engines to date.
120 000 engines per year
"With the launch of the new diesel engines, the Struandale Engine Plant embarks on a historic new journey, as it almost doubles our combined installed capacity to 250 000 units for our two engine programmes," says John Cameron, Plant Manager of the Struandale Engine Plant.
As part of Ford’s 2017 investment of over R3-billion in its South African operations, the plant’s new assembly line has an installed capacity to produce up to 120 000 engines per year. The new engine programme starts off with low-volume production for the remainder of this year, then begins ramping up from early 2019.
The new assembly line will produce a total of eight derivatives of the new engines, including the advanced 157kW / 500Nm Bi-Turbo unit.
All of these engines will be supplied to Ford’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria for installation in selected new Ford Ranger and Everest models and, of course, the highly anticipated Ford Ranger Raptor. Ford’s local vehicle production supports domestic sales along with 148 export markets globally.
High levels of quality
Reinforcing its high-tech status, the new state-of-the-art engine assembly line incorporates a cylinder head sub-assembly line that uses four fully automated robots to ensure the precise fitment of components, as well as high-pressure leak testing.
There are four more robotic stations on the main assembly line that apply the special room temperature vulcanising (RTV) silicone gaskets, with each operation monitored by integrated camera inspection systems that guarantee the highest levels of precision and quality control.
Each of the 110 assembly stations along the 312m line incorporates extensive error-proofing and traceability, and every engine is subjected to an in-depth cold test at the end of the assembly line to verify operating parameters and pressures of all systems, without physically starting the engine.
This is backed up by a hot test cell to test engine parameters when running, as well as a fully equipped dynamometer that conducts a wide range of performance and durability tests on selected engines at predetermined intervals.
Continuing alongside the new programme, the existing Duratorq TDCi engine programme has seen an annual installed capacity increase from 75 000 units in 2011 to a maximum capacity of up to 130 000 units from the end of 2018. This engine platform will continue to be offered in the range of vehicles produced in Silverton, as well as exported to global customers
In addition, the Struandale plant's machining capacity for the Duratorq TDCi programme has increased from an original 220 000 component sets (cylinder head, block and crankshaft) to a peak of up to 280 000 to meet the growing demand.
"Completing the launch for the new diesel engine programme while expanding our existing machining and assembly operations without disrupting our normal production is a great achievement and accolade for the Struandale Engine Plant team," Cameron adds.
https://www.wheels24.co.za/OffRoad_...-engine-production-in-port-elizabeth-20181120
The Ford Struandale Engine Plant commenced production of the new-generation diesel engines that are set to power the new Ford Ranger Raptor and selected Ranger and Everest models that will be launched in the first half of 2019.
Assembled on an all-new high-tech assembly line, the start of production for the new engine programme marks an important milestone for the Port Elizabeth facility, which opened its doors in 1964 and has produced over 3.4-million engines to date.
120 000 engines per year
"With the launch of the new diesel engines, the Struandale Engine Plant embarks on a historic new journey, as it almost doubles our combined installed capacity to 250 000 units for our two engine programmes," says John Cameron, Plant Manager of the Struandale Engine Plant.
As part of Ford’s 2017 investment of over R3-billion in its South African operations, the plant’s new assembly line has an installed capacity to produce up to 120 000 engines per year. The new engine programme starts off with low-volume production for the remainder of this year, then begins ramping up from early 2019.
The new assembly line will produce a total of eight derivatives of the new engines, including the advanced 157kW / 500Nm Bi-Turbo unit.
All of these engines will be supplied to Ford’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria for installation in selected new Ford Ranger and Everest models and, of course, the highly anticipated Ford Ranger Raptor. Ford’s local vehicle production supports domestic sales along with 148 export markets globally.
High levels of quality
Reinforcing its high-tech status, the new state-of-the-art engine assembly line incorporates a cylinder head sub-assembly line that uses four fully automated robots to ensure the precise fitment of components, as well as high-pressure leak testing.
There are four more robotic stations on the main assembly line that apply the special room temperature vulcanising (RTV) silicone gaskets, with each operation monitored by integrated camera inspection systems that guarantee the highest levels of precision and quality control.
Each of the 110 assembly stations along the 312m line incorporates extensive error-proofing and traceability, and every engine is subjected to an in-depth cold test at the end of the assembly line to verify operating parameters and pressures of all systems, without physically starting the engine.
This is backed up by a hot test cell to test engine parameters when running, as well as a fully equipped dynamometer that conducts a wide range of performance and durability tests on selected engines at predetermined intervals.
Continuing alongside the new programme, the existing Duratorq TDCi engine programme has seen an annual installed capacity increase from 75 000 units in 2011 to a maximum capacity of up to 130 000 units from the end of 2018. This engine platform will continue to be offered in the range of vehicles produced in Silverton, as well as exported to global customers
In addition, the Struandale plant's machining capacity for the Duratorq TDCi programme has increased from an original 220 000 component sets (cylinder head, block and crankshaft) to a peak of up to 280 000 to meet the growing demand.
"Completing the launch for the new diesel engine programme while expanding our existing machining and assembly operations without disrupting our normal production is a great achievement and accolade for the Struandale Engine Plant team," Cameron adds.
https://www.wheels24.co.za/OffRoad_...-engine-production-in-port-elizabeth-20181120
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Ford SA starts production of Ranger Raptor’s diesel engine
Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has announced the start of production of the new 2,0-litre diesel engines that will be used in the Ranger Raptor and other “selected” Ranger and Everest derivatives.
The Blue Oval brand says the engines are being produced on an “all-new, high-tech assembly line” at the Struandale facility in Port Elizabeth. They will power the upcoming Ranger Raptor (being built at the brand’s Silverton plant) as well as some versions of the updated Ranger and Everest that are set to be launched locally in the first half of 2019.
“With the launch of the new diesel engines, the Struandale Engine Plant embarks on a historic new journey, as it almost doubles our combined installed capacity to 250 000 units for our two engine programmes,” said John Cameron, plant manager of the Struandale facility.
Ford says the new engine programme starts off with “low-volume production” for the remainder of 2018, before “ramping up” from early 2019.
The plant will assemble a total of eight versions of the new powerplant, including the twin-turbo example set to be used in the Ranger Raptor, where it will produce 157 kW and 500 N.m. The engines will be used for vehicles in the local market as well as export markets.
Ford says it will continue to build the existing Duratorq TDCi engines (with the plant’s maximum capacity set to increase to 130 000 units from the end of 2018). In addition, the Struandale plant’s machining capacity for these units has increased from an original 220 000 component sets (cylinder head, block and crankshaft) to a peak of up to 280 000 to meet “growing demand”.
https://www.carmag.co.za/news/ford-sa-starts-production-ranger-raptors-diesel-engine/
Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has announced the start of production of the new 2,0-litre diesel engines that will be used in the Ranger Raptor and other “selected” Ranger and Everest derivatives.
The Blue Oval brand says the engines are being produced on an “all-new, high-tech assembly line” at the Struandale facility in Port Elizabeth. They will power the upcoming Ranger Raptor (being built at the brand’s Silverton plant) as well as some versions of the updated Ranger and Everest that are set to be launched locally in the first half of 2019.
“With the launch of the new diesel engines, the Struandale Engine Plant embarks on a historic new journey, as it almost doubles our combined installed capacity to 250 000 units for our two engine programmes,” said John Cameron, plant manager of the Struandale facility.
Ford says the new engine programme starts off with “low-volume production” for the remainder of 2018, before “ramping up” from early 2019.
The plant will assemble a total of eight versions of the new powerplant, including the twin-turbo example set to be used in the Ranger Raptor, where it will produce 157 kW and 500 N.m. The engines will be used for vehicles in the local market as well as export markets.
Ford says it will continue to build the existing Duratorq TDCi engines (with the plant’s maximum capacity set to increase to 130 000 units from the end of 2018). In addition, the Struandale plant’s machining capacity for these units has increased from an original 220 000 component sets (cylinder head, block and crankshaft) to a peak of up to 280 000 to meet “growing demand”.
https://www.carmag.co.za/news/ford-sa-starts-production-ranger-raptors-diesel-engine/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Building a Ranger Raptor: Hot and heavy in the Ford factory
Come spend some time on the line in the factory and build a Raptor they said. It will be fun they said.
What they didn’t say was that there would be a heatwave in Silverton, Pretoria on the day, we would be wearing industrial steel toe-cap boots, a reflector vest, gloves and working on the line just as thousands of Ford employees do every day.
All I can say after that was much respect and a whole new understanding of how the cars we drive and get to test are put together.
It wasn’t so much a launch in the sense that we know it, but more a unique look in to how Ford’s much anticipated Raptor and upgraded Ranger and Everest will be assembled for both local and international distribution.
It also gave us an opportunity to see the R3-billion that Ford has invested in the last 18 months in upgrades to the plant up close and personal.
Henry Ford was the first person to implement the conveyor belt style of assembly while modern technology and innovative thinking has almost perfected the efficiencies, so I reckon the process we witnessed and were a part of would have received a big thumbs up from him.
Except there wasn’t just one model on the line or for that matter any colour as long as it was black, as he is famously quoted as saying.
This, to me at least, was one of the outstanding features of the day. It’s not as though there’s a batch of Rangers, Everests or Raptors coming through, it’s a complete mishmash of models as orders are pushed through.
As each employee at the different work stations assembles whichever part they are assigned to it’s all there, whether it be a dashboard with left or right hand drive, single cab, double cab, 2.2 litre, 3.2 litre or 2 litre engine, automatic gearbox or manual, load bay lining or no lining, the assembly line doesn’t hesitate for a moment, all you have to do is turn around, pick up the piece and slot it in to its place.
A mind boggling logistical feat to be sure and they turn out almost 10 000 vehicles a month.
It’s also made possible by modular assembly of machines and components at some of the suppler companies with only installation taking place at Silverton as well as sub assembly zones for the engines, suspension, axles and doors.
The door shells are diverted to another line where all components, rubbers and switches are installed while the rest of the vehicle gets put together on the main line. With the doors off workers have unhindered access to move around and work inside the cabin.
There’s a conveyor system that offloads the seats outside the factory, places them on another belt that then transports them through the roof for fitment to an almost complete car.
Once the finished product has been pushed through the water sprayers to check for leaks, it’s time for the rattle and squeak test track with various surfaces to check for external, internal and chassis noises as well as panel alignment. A hill test allows only six clicks on the handbrake to prevent it from rolling back before the vehicle can pass muster.
On the day 15 Raptors were built as part of pre-production as the system is tweaked to allow for best practice before production hits full swing next year.
So what happens once they have been built and tested? they’re crushed, shredded, destroyed... that’s what. While a Sars official looks on.
And despite my protestations and alternative arguments while I tried to convince them that I was made to own a Raptor, management were having none of it.
Oh well, back to station 22 with my hydraulic drill with the ever-present noise of robots welding away in the body shop and the clank and clunk of a factory working at full pace.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/indu...or-hot-and-heavy-in-the-ford-factory-18220004
Come spend some time on the line in the factory and build a Raptor they said. It will be fun they said.
What they didn’t say was that there would be a heatwave in Silverton, Pretoria on the day, we would be wearing industrial steel toe-cap boots, a reflector vest, gloves and working on the line just as thousands of Ford employees do every day.
All I can say after that was much respect and a whole new understanding of how the cars we drive and get to test are put together.
It wasn’t so much a launch in the sense that we know it, but more a unique look in to how Ford’s much anticipated Raptor and upgraded Ranger and Everest will be assembled for both local and international distribution.
It also gave us an opportunity to see the R3-billion that Ford has invested in the last 18 months in upgrades to the plant up close and personal.
Henry Ford was the first person to implement the conveyor belt style of assembly while modern technology and innovative thinking has almost perfected the efficiencies, so I reckon the process we witnessed and were a part of would have received a big thumbs up from him.
Except there wasn’t just one model on the line or for that matter any colour as long as it was black, as he is famously quoted as saying.
This, to me at least, was one of the outstanding features of the day. It’s not as though there’s a batch of Rangers, Everests or Raptors coming through, it’s a complete mishmash of models as orders are pushed through.
As each employee at the different work stations assembles whichever part they are assigned to it’s all there, whether it be a dashboard with left or right hand drive, single cab, double cab, 2.2 litre, 3.2 litre or 2 litre engine, automatic gearbox or manual, load bay lining or no lining, the assembly line doesn’t hesitate for a moment, all you have to do is turn around, pick up the piece and slot it in to its place.
A mind boggling logistical feat to be sure and they turn out almost 10 000 vehicles a month.
It’s also made possible by modular assembly of machines and components at some of the suppler companies with only installation taking place at Silverton as well as sub assembly zones for the engines, suspension, axles and doors.
The door shells are diverted to another line where all components, rubbers and switches are installed while the rest of the vehicle gets put together on the main line. With the doors off workers have unhindered access to move around and work inside the cabin.
There’s a conveyor system that offloads the seats outside the factory, places them on another belt that then transports them through the roof for fitment to an almost complete car.
Once the finished product has been pushed through the water sprayers to check for leaks, it’s time for the rattle and squeak test track with various surfaces to check for external, internal and chassis noises as well as panel alignment. A hill test allows only six clicks on the handbrake to prevent it from rolling back before the vehicle can pass muster.
On the day 15 Raptors were built as part of pre-production as the system is tweaked to allow for best practice before production hits full swing next year.
So what happens once they have been built and tested? they’re crushed, shredded, destroyed... that’s what. While a Sars official looks on.
And despite my protestations and alternative arguments while I tried to convince them that I was made to own a Raptor, management were having none of it.
Oh well, back to station 22 with my hydraulic drill with the ever-present noise of robots welding away in the body shop and the clank and clunk of a factory working at full pace.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/indu...or-hot-and-heavy-in-the-ford-factory-18220004
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Ford to build petrol-powered Ranger Raptor (for US) after all?
A fresh report out of the United States suggests Ford is indeed working on a petrol-powered Ranger Raptor for North America, despite insisting it had no plans to do so.
According to Road and Track, the Blue Oval brand will eventually introduce the Ranger Raptor to the US market, although not with the diesel engine offered in other parts of the world. And, crucially, only once the bakkie enters its next generation.
Based on information gleaned from social media profiles of various Ford engineers, the publication speculates this next-generation Ranger will arrive in 2022, with a US-spec Raptor derivative set to follow.
Road and Track says the next version of the Ranger has already been handed the internal code P703, adding that the new bakkie will share plenty with the as-yet-unrevealed new Bronco (the publication points out that the two vehicles will share a frame, built by the same team at Modatek).
One of the social media posts indicates a chassis engineer is working on a Ranger Raptor bearing the same P703 code and listed as being designed for North America. That same engineer, Road and Track notes, worked on the Ranger recently reintroduced to the US as well and the diesel-powered Ranger Raptor set to arrive in South Africa later in 2019.
Of course, it’s not yet confirmed exactly which engine this rumoured new US-spec Ranger Raptor would employ, but it’s all but certain to be a petrol-flavoured EcoBoost unit of some sort.
For the record, the SA-built Ranger Raptor destined for local dealers will be powered by a twin-turbo diesel engine producing 157 kW and 500 N.m.
https://www.carmag.co.za/news/ford-to-build-petrol-powered-us-spec-ranger-raptor-after-all/
A fresh report out of the United States suggests Ford is indeed working on a petrol-powered Ranger Raptor for North America, despite insisting it had no plans to do so.
According to Road and Track, the Blue Oval brand will eventually introduce the Ranger Raptor to the US market, although not with the diesel engine offered in other parts of the world. And, crucially, only once the bakkie enters its next generation.
Based on information gleaned from social media profiles of various Ford engineers, the publication speculates this next-generation Ranger will arrive in 2022, with a US-spec Raptor derivative set to follow.
Road and Track says the next version of the Ranger has already been handed the internal code P703, adding that the new bakkie will share plenty with the as-yet-unrevealed new Bronco (the publication points out that the two vehicles will share a frame, built by the same team at Modatek).
One of the social media posts indicates a chassis engineer is working on a Ranger Raptor bearing the same P703 code and listed as being designed for North America. That same engineer, Road and Track notes, worked on the Ranger recently reintroduced to the US as well and the diesel-powered Ranger Raptor set to arrive in South Africa later in 2019.
Of course, it’s not yet confirmed exactly which engine this rumoured new US-spec Ranger Raptor would employ, but it’s all but certain to be a petrol-flavoured EcoBoost unit of some sort.
For the record, the SA-built Ranger Raptor destined for local dealers will be powered by a twin-turbo diesel engine producing 157 kW and 500 N.m.
https://www.carmag.co.za/news/ford-to-build-petrol-powered-us-spec-ranger-raptor-after-all/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
2019 Ford Ranger Raptor Review | Australia - CarTell.tv
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Ford Ranger Raptor 2019 review
Should I buy one?
There is an argument, and it’s one I understand, that the Ranger Raptor should have an engine more in tune with its chassis performance, rather than the equivalent of, say, putting a 1.4 diesel into a Toyota Supra and pretending that’s fine. This is the only performance car in my recent memory with a 0-62mph time of over 10 seconds.
But when you see the raw chassis in the metal, you realise how much work they’ve put into it, and when you bang it down a gravel track at a speed that would eject you clean through the window of a standard Ranger, it’s easier to understand the path they’ve taken.
Yes, Ford could have just have dropped a 3.5 V6 with 400bhp into a regular Ranger, fitted big tyres and called it there, and I suspect it would have made just as many ripples. But the chassis mods are the expensive bits on an extremely capable car: to say you just want a big engine instead is, in a way, to call for less integrity, rather than more, and I’m not sure I’m prepared to do that. Besides, we all know slow is the new fast.
So the more I think about it, the more I rather warm to a total oddball whose appeal is rather more than skin deep. Certainly there’s nothing else quite like it, and trying to convert a regular pick-up into something similar, while interesting, would probably cost you more. Ford has, basically, created a small new market niche, and it’s a car I find a lot more interesting than yet another premium crossover.
So should you buy one? I’ve no idea. I feel like it’s recommending a Morgan 3 Wheeler or an Ariel Nomad or a Rolls-Royce Phantom: if you want one, sure, go for it. You’ll have bought one of the most intriguing cars on the market today, and there’s merit in that alone.
Ford Ranger Raptor specification
Where Morocco On sale September Price £48,785 Engine 4 cyls in line, 1996cc, twin-turbo, diesel Power 210bhp at 3750rpm Torque 367lb ft at 1750-2000rpm Gearbox 10-spd automatic Kerb weight 2510kg Top speed 106mph 0-62mph 10.5sec Fuel economy 31.7mpg CO2 233g/km Rivals Nothing obvious, maybe an Ariel Nomad or a pick-up with Arctic Trucks options
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/ford/ranger/first-drives/ford-ranger-raptor-2019-review
Should I buy one?
There is an argument, and it’s one I understand, that the Ranger Raptor should have an engine more in tune with its chassis performance, rather than the equivalent of, say, putting a 1.4 diesel into a Toyota Supra and pretending that’s fine. This is the only performance car in my recent memory with a 0-62mph time of over 10 seconds.
But when you see the raw chassis in the metal, you realise how much work they’ve put into it, and when you bang it down a gravel track at a speed that would eject you clean through the window of a standard Ranger, it’s easier to understand the path they’ve taken.
Yes, Ford could have just have dropped a 3.5 V6 with 400bhp into a regular Ranger, fitted big tyres and called it there, and I suspect it would have made just as many ripples. But the chassis mods are the expensive bits on an extremely capable car: to say you just want a big engine instead is, in a way, to call for less integrity, rather than more, and I’m not sure I’m prepared to do that. Besides, we all know slow is the new fast.
So the more I think about it, the more I rather warm to a total oddball whose appeal is rather more than skin deep. Certainly there’s nothing else quite like it, and trying to convert a regular pick-up into something similar, while interesting, would probably cost you more. Ford has, basically, created a small new market niche, and it’s a car I find a lot more interesting than yet another premium crossover.
So should you buy one? I’ve no idea. I feel like it’s recommending a Morgan 3 Wheeler or an Ariel Nomad or a Rolls-Royce Phantom: if you want one, sure, go for it. You’ll have bought one of the most intriguing cars on the market today, and there’s merit in that alone.
Ford Ranger Raptor specification
Where Morocco On sale September Price £48,785 Engine 4 cyls in line, 1996cc, twin-turbo, diesel Power 210bhp at 3750rpm Torque 367lb ft at 1750-2000rpm Gearbox 10-spd automatic Kerb weight 2510kg Top speed 106mph 0-62mph 10.5sec Fuel economy 31.7mpg CO2 233g/km Rivals Nothing obvious, maybe an Ariel Nomad or a pick-up with Arctic Trucks options
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/ford/ranger/first-drives/ford-ranger-raptor-2019-review
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
It's finally launching in SA (this week):
https://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModel...re-new-cars-being-launched-this-week-20190513
https://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModel...re-new-cars-being-launched-this-week-20190513
