Debuting at the 2000 North American International Auto Show, the 2000 Ford Equator Concept Truck was a one-off prototype designed to embody the spirit of adventure. Based on the best-selling F-150, it featured innovative design elements that set it apart.
Inspired by off-road racers, the Equator boasted an independent suspension with aluminum upper control arms, 32-inch adjustable coils over gas-linked shocks, and a custom-machined steering linkage. Key components such as bumpers, fenders, wheel wells, and lower trim panels were constructed with Kevlar for enhanced durability.
The four-passenger truck included hydraulically folding panels beneath high-cut doors, creating convenient steps. When folded up, these panels served as a watertight barrier for the passenger compartment, showcasing the Equator's versatility.
This distinctive concept vehicle, resembling the Hummer H2T, was later auctioned off for charity. Built on a Ford heavy-duty platform with a wheelbase matching the standard F-150, the Equator hinted at the brand's exploration of new design territories in the early 2000s.
Details about the engine remain limited, but the Equator likely housed a Power Stroke turbodiesel or a 6.8-liter gas V10, delivering robust performance. Its fully independent suspension, front and rear, and a folding mid-gate behind the rear seats for bed expansion showcased its versatility.
The 2000 Ford Equator Concept Truck stands as a testament to Ford's commitment to innovation and adventure. With a unique design, off-road capabilities, and charitable intentions, this concept provided a glimpse into the brand's exploration of new horizons in the automotive landscape.
Source: tfltruck.com; Truckmachinedesign.com
Images: Ford Motor Company
