January 10, 2001

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Detroit auto show:
Ford EX goes off-road

The Ford EX concept vehicle provides a 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.

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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 centre 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 moulded 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

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