There is no question that the Raptor is good off road. But do you think Ford’s Terrain Management system would complement or even enhance the Raptor 4x4’s already impressive off road credentials?

For those who might not know about the upcoming Terrain Management system, it will be available on the all-new 2011 Ford Explorer 4x4, and may become available on the Expedition 4x4 in the next few model years.

Note that the 2011 Explorer will not have low range gearing, so Terrain Management system will only be able to help the Explorer to a certain extent. The Raptor and Expedition still have low range gearing, so the Terrain Management system should, if nothing else, help further their off road capability.

To see Terrain Management in action click the links:
YouTube - Next Generation Ford Explorer: Terrain Management System (TMS)
YouTube - First Ride: 2011 Ford Explorer testing in Dubai
YouTube - 2011 Ford Explorer Testing in Dubai



What does it do, how does it work, and why should I care ?

Terrain Management has a control dial that the driver can turn to activate different modes. The new 2011 Explorer will have four modes: General/Normal Driving mode, Grass/Gravel/Snow mode, Mud & Ruts mode and Sand mode.

Each mode controls, adjusts and tailors the vehicle’s 4x4 system to adapt the vehicle to the chosen terrain.

Below are some, but not all of the things Terrain Management is capable of doing.

General/Normal Driving mode – For use on or off road. Helps optimize fuel efficiency and emissions. Engine, transmission, throttle response, traction control and electronic stability control systems are set for all-terrain use.

Grass/Gravel/Snow mode – For use on any slippery surface. The engine is not allowed to over rev, transmission starts in 2nd gear and gear shifts are quickened, throttle response is dampened and traction control sensitivity is increased.

Mud & Ruts mode – For use in muddy or rutted terrain. The engine is allowed to rev, transmission starts in 1st gear but shifts to 2nd gear quickly, traction control allows for controlled slip at the wheels before engaging.

Sand mode – For use in sandy terrain. The engine is allowed to rev to its limit, transmission gear shifts are held off for long as possible, throttle response is recalibrated for better torque management, traction control is desensitized to stop the vehicle from loosing speed and the electronic stability control is recalibrated to allow for more yaw movement.