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Ford EX: Taking the outfitter line-up to the extreme edge of adventure
The Ford EX concept vehicle stakes its claim in the extreme domain
of the “No Boundaries” SUV line-up, promising a unique,
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.
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 center 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 molded rubber non-skid
pads and floor drain plugs.
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