Next-generation Ford Ranger on its way from South Africa to over 100 markets globally

Ford South Africa has commenced exports of the next-generation Ranger from its manufacturing plant in Silverton, Gauteng – one of five global production hubs – to over 100 countries around the world.

The bakkie went on sale in the domestic market in December 2022 in double-cab guise only, and as recently as last week, single and supercab styles were also introduced.

With an annual capacity of 200,000 units, monthly exports from the South African base are expected to be around two-thirds of total output, with Europe being the largest export market, said the blue oval. 

Ford is also relying on a “two-port” strategy to support its high-volume exports, shipping vehicles both through Durban and Gqeberha, with the latter route set to play a more instrumental role once a more efficient and reliable rail corridor between Gauteng and the Eastern Cape is developed.

“We are proud to commence with next-gen Ranger exports to customers around the world from our world-class manufacturing facility in South Africa,” said Ockert Berry, VP of Operations, Ford South Africa. 

“We are excited about the huge export potential and continue to work with authorities to address bottlenecks such as high level of congestion at Durban’s roll-on roll-off (RORO) vehicle terminal, as well as lack of rail infrastructure for Ford to direct most of its export as well as import through Gqeberha.”

Silverton upgrades

In the run-up to production of the next-generation Ranger, Ford extensively upgraded its South African operations which took the better half of two years to the tune of R15.8 billion.

The improvements comprised building an on-site body stamping plant, a highly-automated all-new body shop, establishing the only Ford-owned frame line in the world, completely revamping the assembly line with the latest technologies such as 493 “non-spark” robots, and extensive investment in the latest tooling for its suppliers.

A further R600 million was invested in the Struandale Engine Plant for the development of the powerful 3.0-litre, V6, turbo-diesel motor that is equipped to the headlining Ranger Wildtrak, along with the enhanced 2.0-litre single and bi-turbo units.

The expanded production capacity also contributed to significant job creation, thanks to the addition of a third shift at the Silverton plant in 2022, said Ford.

A total of 1,200 positions were added for the new shift, taking Ford’s total South African workforce to 5,500 employees.

“Approximately 10,000 jobs were added at supplier companies, with local manufacturing for the next-gen Ranger now supporting around 60,000 jobs in the total value chain,” said the automaker.