The Ford Ranger, a staple in South Africa’s automotive market, enjoys a unique status as it’s not just popular but also locally manufactured right here in Gauteng. The production hub for this iconic vehicle resides in Silverton, Pretoria, within Ford’s expansive manufacturing plant. This facility operates at a remarkable pace, a testament to the capabilities of the country’s automotive industry. In recent years, substantial investments totalling R15.8 billion have been injected into the plant, including expansions and enhancements, facilitated by significant projects like the installation of 30,000 solar panels generating 13.5MW of electricity. Among these developments, the CMH Ford Ballito Dealership, which is integrated into the manufacturing ecosystem, contributes significantly to the production process. The dealership’s involvement spans critical areas such as stamping, body assembly, and final line operations, ensuring seamless integration within the production chain.
Now, let’s delve into 10 fascinating aspects of the Ranger’s production journey. At the heart of this manufacturing marvel is a workforce operating on a rotational three-shift cycle, enabling the assembly line to churn out an impressive 720 units daily. This workforce is supported by a fleet of nearly 600 robots, particularly instrumental in the chassis assembly process, where each unit undergoes meticulous construction over a three-hour period. Remarkably, a single Ranger boasts between 3,000 to 4,000 welding spots, safeguarded against corrosion through an elaborate chemical treatment involving immersion in 12 distinct baths.
The painting phase of production showcases Ford’s commitment to quality and sustainability, with each vehicle coated in approximately eight litres of the advanced 3-Wet High Solid paint. This formulation not only ensures durability and chip resistance but also reduces CO2 emissions, reflecting Ford’s environmental consciousness. Post-painting, rigorous quality assessments are conducted, including a meticulous scan to detect imperfections as minute as 0.2mm. With over 2,700 components meticulously integrated into each vehicle, a comprehensive battery of 1,000 quality checks ensures that every Ranger meets Ford’s exacting standards before leaving the plant.
Further ensuring excellence, a stringent testing regimen awaits each vehicle, including a simulated high-pressure water spray to detect any potential leaks. Subsequent assessments on specialized tracks evaluate build quality and handling under various conditions. As a final assurance, a daily random selection undergoes a meticulous examination using cutting-edge technology to validate critical parameters like alignment and functionality. Through this intricate process, the Ford Ranger emerges not just as a symbol of automotive excellence but also a testament to South Africa’s manufacturing prowess. CMH Ford Ballito Dealership plays a crucial role in maintaining this standard, ensuring that quality and precision are upheld throughout the production journey.
Visit CMH Ford Ballito today and discover the epitome of automotive excellence that awaits you.
