South Africa has a rich history of tough, reliable bakkies designed to tackle the country’s demanding terrain. Adding to this legacy, Ulterio Motiv has introduced its second innovative product: the 6×4 Ford Ranger, a six-wheeled behemoth built to dominate extreme environments while carrying heavy payloads. This latest offering highlights Ulterio Motiv’s growing reputation for creating specialized vehicles, following the successful debut of its 6×6 Toyota Land Cruiser earlier this year.
Ulterio Motiv: Pioneering Custom Utility Vehicles
Ulterio Motiv, the sister company of renowned vehicle armoring firm SVI Engineering, focuses on creating rugged vehicles designed for extreme tasks. Unlike its Land Cruiser sibling, which features a 6×6 setup, the new Ranger adopts a 6×4 configuration, offering a balance of capability and affordability. This innovation further cements Ulterio Motiv’s role as a leader in heavy-duty vehicle customization.
Pricing and Build Time
The conversion to a 6×4 configuration starts at R265,000 (excluding VAT). This cost applies to the modification only and does not include the base price of the original Ford Ranger, which can be purchased in single-cab, extended-cab, or double-cab configurations. Customers can also select additional upgrades and customizations tailored to their specific needs.
The approximate build time for the conversion is six weeks. This efficient turnaround ensures customers can quickly begin utilizing their upgraded Ranger for industrial, commercial, or recreational purposes.
Key Features of the 6×4 Ford Ranger
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payload Capacity | Up to 2,000kg |
| Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) | Up to 4,500kg |
| Driver’s License Requirement | C1 license required for public road use |
| 6×4 Configuration | Third, non-driven axle added to extend the chassis |
| Suspension System | Bogie system balances load between middle and third axles |
| Braking System | Disc brakes on third axle integrated with Ford’s ABS system |
| Retained Drivetrain | 4×4 system and differential lock remain fully operational |
| Customization Options | Standard drop-side load bin (1.6m wide, 2.5m long) or bespoke configurations for specific applications |
| Comfort and Safety | Original Ford Ranger features retained, including luxury and safety systems |
| Build Time | Approximately six weeks |
| Starting Conversion Cost | R265,000 (excluding VAT and base vehicle cost) |
Extreme Payload and Terrain Mastery
The primary draw of the 6×4 Ranger is its ability to carry massive payloads over the most challenging terrains. Designed and homologated for increased utility, the vehicle boasts a payload capacity of 2,000kg and a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of up to 4,500kg, depending on the model.
However, the vehicle’s enhanced capabilities come with a requirement: drivers need a C1 driver’s license to legally operate the Ranger on public roads due to its increased weight.
Engineering Behind the 6×4 Setup
The transformation of the Ford Ranger into a 6×4 powerhouse involves extending its standard chassis to accommodate a third axle. This non-driven rear axle, placed behind the original rear wheels, significantly boosts the Ranger’s load-carrying capacity without altering its drivetrain.
Importantly, the 6×4 setup retains the Ranger’s original 4×4 system and differential lock, ensuring that off-road capabilities remain intact. This is crucial for applications where traction and drivability are key, such as navigating muddy trails, steep inclines, or loose gravel.
The new rear suspension employs a bogie system, which balances the load between the middle and third axles. Approximately 40% of the rear mass is borne by the third axle, while the middle axle supports the remaining weight. According to Ulterio Motiv, this setup improves traction by increasing the contact force between the driven wheels and the terrain.
Enhanced Safety Features
Safety is a priority in the 6×4 Ranger. The conversion includes an upgraded braking system with disc brakes installed on the third axle. These brakes integrate seamlessly with Ford’s factory ABS system, providing reliable stopping power even under full load. This ensures that the Ranger meets both performance and safety standards, even in the most demanding conditions.
Customization Options
The 6×4 Ranger offers unmatched versatility for its load-carrying capabilities. A standard drop-side load bin measuring 1.6m wide and 2.5m long is available for buyers. However, customers can opt for fully customized configurations, such as closed canopies or bespoke bins tailored for specialized applications.
Whether the vehicle is used for camping, emergency services, agriculture, or industrial transport, the modular chassis serves as a “blank canvas” for virtually any purpose.
Comfort Meets Utility
Despite its extensive modifications, the 6×4 Ranger retains all the comfort, safety, and luxury features of the original Ford Ranger. This means that even after the conversion, drivers and passengers enjoy features like modern infotainment systems, advanced driver-assist technologies, and a well-appointed interior.
Who Is the 6×4 Ford Ranger For?
The 6×4 Ford Ranger is designed for industries and individuals that demand both strength and versatility. It is ideal for businesses in sectors like mining, construction, and forestry that need a vehicle capable of hauling heavy loads while navigating unforgiving terrain. Additionally, recreational users—such as overland adventurers or camping enthusiasts—will find the 6×4’s payload and customization options invaluable.
Conclusion
The 6×4 Ford Ranger from Ulterio Motiv sets a new standard for heavy-duty bakkies in South Africa. With its immense payload capacity, innovative design, and customizable configurations, it is a testament to the potential of specialized vehicle engineering. Whether for professional or personal use, the 6×4 Ranger is a bold solution for those seeking to conquer the toughest terrains with confidence and capability.
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