|
Ford EX: Taking the outfitter line-up to the
extreme edge of adventure
|
Click Photos for Larger Versions
1/9/01,
Dearborn, MI - The Ford EX concept vehicle stakes its claim
in the extreme domain of the "No Boundaries" SUV line-up,
promising a unique, no-compromise driving experience for the off-road
enthusiast and extreme sports authority.
"The
EX Concept is the farthest extension of the Outfitters family
of SUVs yet," says J Mays, Ford Motor Company vice president
of Design. "It is the most extreme of the Outfitters concept
vehicles and was built to explore a unique lifestyle and cohort
group."
This two-seat
concept vehicle is purpose-built and features high- quality, detailed
composite body sections on a Chrome-Moly steel frame. The frame
is tough, durable, resistant to corrosion and ready to take on
any off-road adventure.
The mechanicals,
such as the transfer case and aluminum radiator with dual fans,
are moved rearward to achieve a 50/50 weight distribution, providing
optimal traction in rugged terrain. An ecto-skeletal design allows
the components to be visible, and removable side body panels are
secured to the frame by lightweight aluminum fasteners.
The exposed
front frame structure is accentuated by a honeycomb texture front
grille and four round high-intensity driving lamps, which gives
the overall appearance a tough, solid stance.
The bronze
tinted windshield folds down and clips to the top of the hood,
giving the occupants the feeling of freedom that comes from open-air
driving.
In lieu of
door handles, padded grip areas on the top and side frame ease
access when climbing in and out of the vehicle. Other features
include dual stainless steel side exiting exhausts, five-spoke,
17-inch cast aluminum wheels, and a full size spare tire cradled
behind the seating area.
The interior
features a full roll cage and seats wrapped in a black and tan
all-weather material. This versatile textile resists damage from
the sun, ozone and weather and displays outstanding physical toughness.
The steering wheel and instruments are mounted on a steering mechanism
that glides from side to side to allow for easier entry and exit.
Occupants
strap into their seats with four-point safety belts and dual air
bags are located in the center of the wheel and the instrument
panel.
A removable
central storage bin bridges the rear suspension while an additional
storage bin is positioned on a bar located under the instrument
panel. Map pockets are placed on the side panels to store smaller
equipment.
The floor
is washable and features integrated molded rubber non-skid pads
and floor drain plugs.
Ford
EX Specifications:
Vehicle Type: Front-engine
Four-wheel drive
Engine: SOHC, V.6, 4.0L
Super
charged / inter-cooled
Power:
375 hp @ 4,600 rpm
Torque:
410 lb.ft @ 3,800 rpm
Drivetrain: Five-speed manual transmission
Dimensions: Overall length: 139.25 inches
Overall
height: 62.5 inches
Overall
width: 76 inches
Wheelbase:
100 inches
Track
width, front: 62.75 inches
Track width, rear: 64 inches
Angle of approach: 52.5 degrees
Angle
of departure: 90 degrees
Weight:
2600pounds - 50 percent front / 50 percent rear
Front Suspension: Independent with dual coil over reservoir shocks
per corner
Rear Suspension: Independent with dual coil over reservoir shocks
per corner
Front Brakes: 13" x 1.25" Disc - 4 piston calipers
Rear Brakes: 13" x 1.25" Disc - 4 piston calipers
Wheels Size: 9.5 x 17-inches
Wheel type: Cast aluminum
Tires: BF Goodrich 33/12.50/17
For
further information, contact:
Ford Motor Company
www.ford.com
|