Ford Ranger Super Duty Undergoes Extreme Mud Testing
Ford Australia engineers conducted an unusual test for the new Ford Ranger Super Duty prototype. The truck was intentionally buried in mud to test its endurance in the most challenging conditions. After applying 600 kg of dried dirt, the vehicle continued to carry over a ton of cargo, demonstrating its power.
The testing took place at the specialized You Yangs proving ground in Victoria, where conditions similar to the real challenges of mining quarries and off-road terrain are created. Engineers intentionally allowed each layer of dirt to dry before the next run, simulating the gradual accumulation of contamination.
A True Challenge for a Truck
The most interesting stage was the test when the vehicle, covered in a thick layer of clay, had to carry an additional load equivalent to the weight of an adult Brahman bull (800-1100 kg).
“Mud is one of the main enemies of trucks. It not only adds weight but also blocks airflow, causing components to overheat,” explained Rob Hugo, Ford’s Chief of Product Performance.
These trials were not just a show performance. They demonstrate the Ranger Super Duty’s ability to operate in the extreme conditions typical of remote industrial sites. Although most owners will never use their vehicles in such conditions, the test confirms the reliability of the design.
Sales of the Ford Ranger Super Duty are expected to begin in Australia in 2026. The company currently does not plan to supply this model to North America. This version features a reinforced chassis, differential locks, 33-inch off-road tires, and a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine capable of towing up to 4.5 tons.
Previous tests included simulating years of intensive use, further confirming the model’s orientation towards professional use. Unlike many competitors, the Ranger Super Duty is designed not for show, but for real work in the most difficult conditions.