FROM all ramifications, Ford has fortified the new Ranger with more space, strength; style coupled with up-to-date safety innovations.Ford Ranger is a popular product in Nigeria based on its resilience spirit and ability to drive through friendly and difficult terrains.The new Ford Ranger is among series of products expected to debut in Nigeria before the end of this year.Measuring 5270mm in length and 2163mm in width, the Ranger double cabin is identified by observers as responsive and a dominant force in its class.The Ranger also boasts of what the automobile firm described as class-leading rear-seat comfort and space.In terms of ergonomics and finish, the newcomer offers all the mood cons, including an audio system Bluetooth capability, USB and Ipod connectivity, dual-zone climate control and cruise control.There are 23 storage areas in the cabin and the glove compartment with hand hidden storage area underneath the rear seat.Ford Ranger loyalists have a list of options to pick from, including the XLT 3.2 with either manual or six-speed automatic gearbox.The 3.2 litres Ranger moves effortlessly from a low rev base under 1000 rpm. XLT comes standard with a rear differential lock. Ground clearance is 237mm.In terms of safety, Dynamic Stability Control is standard on all models as well as the latest features that are, in many cases, suited to a large truck-like vehicle. These include hill descent control that helps the driver on steep downhill grades, hill launch assist that stops the vehicle rolling backwards, trailer sway control adding stability when towing, adaptive load control that adds stability when carrying a heavy load, emergency brake assist, emergency brake light that flashes the indicators when the vehicles decelerates quickly and roll-over mitigation that helps prevent the vehicle from getting into a situation where it could roll over.Though launch assist is not so important with automatic vehicles, but is handy with manuals and with the Ranger being a large, heavy vehicle, this is a vital bit of kit.The Chairman of Coscharis Group, Cosmos Maduka, recently announced plan to sell about 100,000 units of Ford brand in the next 10 years.Also, American auto giant, Ford Motor Company (FMC), recently expressed confidence in the Nigerian economy, describing the market as phenomenal.FMC Director, Sales Operations, Export and Growth Operations, Mr. Michael J. Crowley, and Director, Export Operations and Global Initiatives, Mr. Hai Feder, gave the commendation while speaking with auto journalists in Lagos during a facility visit to the new Ford Centre recently opened by Coscharis Motors in Lekki, Lagos.The visiting Ford officials said they were impressed by the massive facility and investment put up by Coscharis Motors, adding that the Nigerian market offers great prospects for the Ford brand.Crowley said, 'It may interest you to know that we are coasting home with about 70 per cent year-over-year growth in the African market and that is talking about the combination of our products. What is inspiring our growth is that we are expanding our products range.'He listed the new products in the market to include the new Ford Ranger, saying the new Ford Escape and new Figo would be added next year.'We are going to be more aggressive in the market both in terms of sales and in other activities. In our market approach, we'll work more closely with our dealers in the areas of product development and testing to ensure that products are designed to suit local conditions.'Crowley added that the future is bright for Ford in Nigeria with a sales target of between 40,000 and 50,000 units of vehicles per year.'The Nigerian market is phenomenal. We are impressed by government policies and with all the investment we are putting up in Nigeria, we've got bullish prospects for the future,' he said.Maduka said the new facility was built for the future. He maintained that the facility is an expression of confidence in the Ford brand, saying the decision was informed by the need to make an investment that creates joy in the hearts of the customers'You need to make an investment that gives you joy. This facility shows the confidence we have in the Ford brand. It is exciting for us and Ford is going to support us. Right here, we are going to establish a Ford Institute where we will be training people to start their own businesses.
Click here to read full news..
