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Electrified military Ford Ranger can tailgate the enemy silently


Ford Global Fleet Sales has released its FG-P heavy-duty ute, based on the Ranger, which has electric power and a stealth mode.

It’s targeted at defence and security operational companies including companies that complete surveillance operations.

Ford Global Fleet Sales is managed by Thailand-based RMA Group, which is also responsible for right-hand drive remanufacturing of the F-150 for Australia.

The company has added an electric motor to the rear driveline and as well as a electric battery.

Drivers can use the electric motor when in “Silent Mode”, which will eliminate engine heat and engine sounds for stealth operations.

An interlock system ensures the engine doesn’t accidentally operate.

It’s unclear what the power outputs for the electric motor are, but the company says it will be able to travel at speeds up to 20km/h, with customers able to increase these speeds on request.

Battery sizes haven’t been disclosed, however the company claims the battery can power the electric motor for between 2km and 30km.

The Black Out System allows customers to turn off all light and sound sources with the flick of a switch, and is primarily designed to be used in surveillance operations.

A “Black Out” control button will activate a series of control modules and will instruct all smart modules to turn off their light sources or enter sleep mode.

It will also turn off all passive systems to prevent any chance of light illumination, as well as sound sources including the horn or warning sounds.

The air-conditioning, engine and transmission systems, power steering, and safety equipment, including ABS, ESP, and airbags, will continue to work as normal.

Ford Global Fleet Sales will give its customers the option to add convoy or infrared lights.

Four engines are available: single- and bi-turbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesels; a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6; and a 2.3-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder. Depending on the engine, there’s either a six- or 10-speed automatic transmission.

Ford Global Fleet Sales has only published the outputs for the 3.0-litre V6, which pumps out 184kW and 600Nm – unchanged from the vehicle in Ford Australia showrooms.

Thanks to the FG-P’s JP8 fuel conversion, the ute can run on all grades of diesel and jet fuel.

The company has also replaced a catalytic converter with a non-catalytic muffler system, provided a software update to recalibrate the engine control unit (ECU), and added a hot climate option to cool F63, JP8 or other low-viscosity fuels in hot climates.

A GWM upgrade that passes Australia Design Rules boosts the FG-P to 3500kg from 3350kg.

The company says the upgrade is designed to stabilise and level the vehicle to increase ride and drive quality.

The FG-P’s suspension upgrade is claimed to provide long-term durability under heavy loads and extreme driving conditions.

In the tray, the FG-P has a moulded plastic tub liner, integrated bull bar with side rails and side steps, 360-degree zone lighting, cargo management system, and cargo tie downs.

Ford Global Fleet Sales has opened enquiries for companies or government bodies that are interested in purchasing the ute via its website.

The company hasn’t released pricing.

MORE: Everything Ford Ranger

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