If you’re a truck driver in the USA, you still can’t get one.
The Ford Motor Company still refuses to compete with the big names of trucking in the USA, even though they recently unveiled their new Cargo day cab and short sleepers recently in Brazil.
Ford presently fields two completely different big rig ranges under the Cargo moniker – one a product of an Eastern Europe/Turkey joint venture, and another from Brazil. But that’s about to start changing with the advent of this new cab-over model seen here.
Unveiled in São Paulo, Brazil, this new generation of Cargo is perhaps the largest physical embodiment of CEO Alan Mulally’s “One Ford” global streamlining strategy. Instead of multiple models, company engineers have developed a new single truck that it says will better meet the needs of truckers in all markets. Designed to compete in what’s known as the “extra heavy-duty segment” elsewhere in the world, this Cargo was developed jointly by Ford engineering teams in Brazil, Turkey and Europe.
Ford is promising an all-new engine enabling hauling capability of up to 56 tons while still returning excellent fuel economy.
The new range includes the next models: Cargo 1317, Cargo 1517, Cargo 1717, Cargo 2622, Cargo 2628 and Cargo 3122 with a day cab, and Cargo 1722, Cargo 2422, Cargo 2428, Cargo 1932R and Cargo 1932 with day or sleeper cabs.
The new generation received a new modern style – beautiful, but functional. External design of the new trucks is common with Ford’s passenger cars. Designers tried to make sense of the movement, even when the truck is standing still. Bumpers and fenders are made of durable plastic.
To facilitate fillers access the hood climbs at 60 degrees now. The main feature of the new design is trapeziform grille and the baffles above the headlights, designed to optimize an air flow on the sides of the cab.
Inside there are many changes too. This is a new four-point cab’s suspension, new transmissions, adjustable steering column, electric power windows, air suspension for seats, improved sound insulation and other.
The instrument panel is made from environmentally friendly materials. The dashboard also received several changes. What about the technical equipment? The new line is completed with proven 4- and 6-cylinder Cummins engines. But they are combined with the new synchronized gearboxes Eaton – 6-speed FS series and 13-speed FST series. All models are equipped with more reliable clutch and upgraded braking system.