Ford Ranger Triumphs with Third International Pick-up Award in a Decade
Last Updated on by Tarek
Ford Motor Company’s Ranger Bakkie has once again made headlines by securing the prestigious International Pick-up Award (IPUA) for the third time in ten years, a testament to its continued excellence in the automotive industry. This remarkable achievement was complemented by Ford’s Transit Custom winning the International Van of the Year (IVOTY) award, marking a double victory for Ford’s commercial vehicle lineup.
The awards were ceremoniously presented at the Solutrans commercial vehicle show in Lyon, France. Tim Slatter, Ford’s Vice President of Product Programmes, expressed his pride in the global Ford teams for their commitment to delivering quality-driven products. He emphasized that the awards are a recognition of the strength of Ford’s newest commercial vehicles, designed to meet diverse business needs.
The Ford Ranger’s success is underpinned by a rigorous testing process, conducted both on- and off-road, by an IPUA jury comprising European and South African journalists. The vehicle’s global appeal is evident, as it is manufactured in six factories across four continents. Notably, the Silverton factory in Africa is a major producer of the Ranger models destined for Europe. The Ranger has been Europe’s top-selling bakkie for eight consecutive years, capturing almost half of the continent’s sales in this category.
Hans Schep, General Manager of Ford Pro, Europe, highlighted the Ranger’s enduring appeal, stating, “The new Ford Ranger offers the most comprehensive series choice yet, delivering both on-road refinement and off-road capability, suitable for both work and leisure.”
In response to the European Union’s push for environmentally friendly vehicles, Ford announced plans to introduce a plug-in hybrid electric version of the Ranger. This strategic move ensures the Ranger remains competitive as new vehicle sales regulations become increasingly focused on reducing emissions.
Ford’s continued innovation and commitment to quality are clearly demonstrated by these awards, positioning the company as a leader in the global automotive market. The Ranger’s latest achievement not only reinforces its status as a top pick in the commercial vehicle segment but also reflects Ford’s ability to evolve and meet the changing needs of the modern driver.
