TYRES

Ford has a good working relationship with BF Goodrich and, like the F-150 Raptor, the company supplies the standard- t rubber on the Ranger Raptor. For the latter product, BF Goodrich’s focus was on the construction of the tyre, as the compound already proved itself on the F-150. The suspension setup allows for a stiffer and stronger tyre construction also reducing rolling resistance, thereby easing fuel consumption.

The three-ply sidewalls are reinforced with a technology called Coregard to prevent damage and, remarkably, Ford lost only one tyre during the whole development programme, testament to how tough these tyres are.

Another advantage is that, although the design features an aggressive tread pattern for off-road grip, it is still reasonably quiet on tar and also offers decent wet-road performance, according to Wayne Yount, senior product development engineer at Michelin.