FORD RANGER DROPSIDE SC
Ford South Africa have expanded their highly successful Ranger line-up with a new factory-approved Dropside conversion, tailored specifically for fleet and commercial use. Based on the rugged and reliable Single Cab Ranger, the new Dropside SC blends practicality with the premium features of the standard XL variant, making it a compelling choice for delivery-focused businesses.
At first glance, the Ranger Dropside SC retains the bold front-end styling and refined interior found across the Ranger range. Inside the cabin, drivers are treated to Ford’s SYNC¨4A infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, air conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, and phone charging ports. Comfortable cloth-trimmed seating and ample cabin space ensure long working days are both comfortable and productive.
Powered by a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, the Dropside SC delivers a strong and smooth driving experience with cruise control included in the steering wheel controls.
The key transformation lies in the rear. The traditional loadbox is replaced with a large factory-approved Dropside tray featuring fold-down doors, offering easier and faster loading capabilities. The side doors can also be completely removed to further expand the loading area, a crucial benefit for high-volume deliveries.
Despite the change in structure, the payload capacity remains unchanged, staying true to the Ranger’s design limits. The vehicle can safely haul up to 3.5 tons, supported by standard safety features such as Electronic Stability Control and six airbags.
Interested buyers can order the Dropside SC through any Ford dealership. The conversion is carried out by RMA SA, an authorised Ford modifier. Once an order is placed and finalised, the transformation takes about 4 to 6 weeks, depending on custom specifications.
Pricing for the Dropside conversion is tailored to individual fleet requirements and is available on request. Importantly, the factory warranty remains valid on all unmodified components, while the converted section is covered by RMA SA under a four-year/120 000 km warranty.
Following conversion, the standard loadbox, rear bumpers, reverse camera, and PDC sensors are removed. Repairers need to be aware of these changes, particularly when diagnosing or servicing the vehicle after a collision.
Additionally, the converted Ranger receives a Homologation Certificate from RMA SA, allowing legal registration as a Dropside D and smooth resale in its modified state without reverting to the original configuration.
The Ford Ranger Dropside SC is a smart, durable solution for businesses requiring both practicality and comfort in a delivery vehicle. With its factory-backed quality, simplified loading capabilities, and premium driving experience, it’s an ideal addition to any commercial fleet looking to enhance operational efficiency without sacrificing driver comfort.
By Jay Groat
