The Hidden Hands-On Inspection All Rangers Must Pass - Middle East Business News and Information
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, February, 2025 – The keen eyes and steady hands of Ford's customer acceptance line (CAL) inspectors are critical in 'providing a final seal of approval on every Ranger and Ranger Raptor,' said Sundarrajan Venkatesan, director of quality and new model programs, Ford International Markets Group.
The customer acceptance line is a six-step process that every Ranger and Ranger Raptor passes through before being shipped around the world. It involves artificial intelligence checks, paint and panel inspection, interior and lighting, electrical and a run around a 320-metre long, seven surface squeak-and-rattle track.
Here are the six steps:
Dark Room
With all the lights switched off, inspectors check head and tail lamps, the instrument cluster, SYNC®2 screen and all interior lighting for brightness and alignment.
Hands-On Inspection:
Inspectors run their hands across every surface, tracing the contours for any imperfections, while also ensuring precise panel alignment. Every button, switch, and control is pressed, poked, clicked and pulled.
Systems Check:
Comprehensive diagnostic checks ensure the electrical components are connected correctly.
AI Eyes:
The Leak Test stimulates a five-minute monsoonal downpour. High-pressure water jets blast the vehicle from every angle. Every light and seal is inspected for water tightness. The water used is treated and reused for subsequent tests.
Squeak-and-Rattle Track:
Featuring everything from uneven cobblestones to angled irons, the squeak-and-rattle track simulates a variety of real-world driving surfaces to ensure there are no unwanted noises and that the suspension and steering operates exactly as it should.
Disclaimers:
1 The described processes are representative of Ford's quality control procedures and may vary slightly depending on the manufacturing location and specific model. Individual vehicle condition may vary.
2 Don't drive while distracted. Use voice-operated systems when possible; don't use handheld devices while driving. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features are compatible with all phones.
About Ford Motor Company:
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company's Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough electric vehicles along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Ford employs about 175,000 people worldwide.
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