South Africans will soon be able to purchase a next-generation Ford Ranger that can protect occupants from all small-arms fire.
The bullet-resistant bakkie is the latest project to come from SVI Engineering, a South African firm that specializes in developing armoured solutions for several of the country’s most popular cars.
The company provided the same service for the previous generation Ranger, as well as a wide array of other 4x4s, from the Toyota Land Cruiser and Hilux to the Nissan Navara and VW Amarok.
SVI unveiled its prototype Ranger at this week’s Nampo Harvest Day Festival in the Free State, based on the range-topping V6 Wildtrak derivative.
Maximum protection
The prototype is graded at a B4 armour level, meaning it can resist damage from handguns up to a .44 Magnum in calibre.
This is achieved through the use of ballistic glass and lightweight Kevlar sheets concealed in the body panels, providing a 360-degree field of protection for occupants.
“Level B4 discreet represents the ideal anti-hijack solution and also delivers protection during brick-throwing incidents and against other hand-held projectiles,” said SVI.
The next-gen bakkie will also be made available with the higher B6 armour grade, which is designed to protect against assault rifle fire from the likes of an Ak47, R1, or R5, and is the highest level of civilian armour that is permitted without a special permit.
The company will also be offering the same service to the new Ford Everest, with further details to be confirmed closer to its debut in July 2023.
Price
The cost of the armour installation for the new Ford Ranger double cab, excluding VAT, is as follows:
- B4 Armour – R529,979
- B6 Armour – R802,746
Interested parties will be able to order their armour package from the first of June 2023, and can do so through any Ford dealership across the country.
It is also possible to finance the package through Ford credit, said SVI.
Furthermore, because the armour process is approved by Ford, the vehicle’s existing warranty and service or maintenance plan will be unaffected by the modifications.
SVI Armoured Ford Ranger Wildtrak
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