PRETORIA, South Africa– The Ford Ranger is one of the leading contenders in its segment in South Africa and has established a solid reputation for quality, reliability, and durability. Ford’s Silverton Manufacturing Plant, based in Pretoria, is one of five manufacturing hubs of the Ranger around the world.
The Ranger’s legacy in South Africa spans three generations, marked by continuous evolution and innovation. As a trusted and beloved bakkie, it has become a cornerstone of Ford’s local lineup and the top-selling double-cab in 2024, with 20 078 Rangers sold.
Over the years, it has earned numerous accolades and left a lasting impact on businesses, communities, and individuals alike, while also playing a key role in positioning South Africa’s automotive manufacturing industry on the global stage.
Just over one million Rangers were produced in South Africa between 2000 and early 2024 for the domestic market and export around the world; a feat that sees a Ranger roll off the production line on average every two minutes.
To ensure the highest standards for quality, every Ranger produced must pass through a six-step process on the Customer Acceptance Line before being shipped around the world. It involves artificial intelligence checks, paint and panel inspection, interior and lighting, electrical and a run around a 320-metre long, seven surface squeak-and-rattle track.
“The trained eyes and precise hands of Ford’s Customer Acceptance Line (CAL) inspectors are essential in ensuring every Ranger meets the highest standards. Their meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to quality provide the final seal of approval before the vehicle reaches its new owner,” says Suresh Babu, Plant Manager, Silverton Vehicle Operations.
Customer Acceptance Line:
1. Dark Room
With all the lights switched off, inspectors check head and tail lamps, the instrument cluster, SYNCÒ screen and all interior lighting for brightness and alignment.
2. Hands-On Inspection
Inspectors run their hands across every surface, tracing the contours for any imperfections, while also ensuring precise panel alignment. Every button, switch, and control is pressed, poked, clicked, and pulled.
3. Systems Check
Comprehensive diagnostic checks ensure the electrical components are connected correctly.
4. AI Eyes
Ford’s mobile artificial intelligence vision system (MAIVS) uses advanced algorithms to scan the exterior of the vehicle for any flaws, like missing or crooked badges.
5. Rainstorm Simulation
The Leak Test stimulates a five-minute monsoonal downpour. High-pressure water jets blast the vehicle from every angle. Every light and seal is inspected for water tightness. Every door is opened, and rubber seals are carefully checked for any signs of water ingress. The water used is collected, treated and reused for subsequent tests in line with Ford’s sustainability practices.
6. Squeak-and-Rattle Track
Paying a visit to Silverton Assembly Plant the first thing that’s noticed are the Ranger’s being put through their paces on the Squeak-and-Rattle Track. Featuring everything from uneven cobblestones to angled irons, the squeak-and-rattle track simulates a variety of real-world driving surfaces to ensure there are no unwanted noises, and that the suspension and steering operates exactly as it should.
The Ford Ranger has redefined the bakkie segment over the years, setting new benchmarks in quality, comfort, technology, capability, and durability. Its impact is reflected in an exceptional track record of accolades, including the prestigious 2023 South African Car of the Year title – the first bakkie to achieve this honour.
Ford’s trophy cabinet is filled with many Ranger accolades, from CAR Magazine’s Best Double Cab Bakkie every year since 2011 to winning the CAR Bakkie Shootout in 2021. It has also earned top honours in The Star Readers’ Choice Awards and remains a consistent finalist in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards. These achievements reinforce the Ranger’s reputation as a leader in its class, proving time and again why it is one of South Africa’s most trusted and celebrated vehicles.
