Air Design’s Ranger Build Earns Recognition from Ford
Ford Motor Co. showcased seven modified 2019 Rangers at the 2018 SEMA Show. Among them was an XLT 4×4 SuperCrew with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost I4 engine and 10-speed electronic automatic transmission built by Air Design USA.
“What makes this Ford Ranger really stand out is its muscular body features and a high belt line to its crowned bed that visually emphasizes strength and versatility for conquering any adventure,” said Billy Longfellow, vice president of design and engineering at Air Design USA and lead designer on the 2018 SEMA Ford build.
Longfellow approached this Raptor-Ranger project like he does any other, with a less-is-more mentality.
“The truck itself is incredible, and I didn’t want any modifications we did to take away from the aggressive factory styling that Ford worked tirelessly to achieve,” he said. “Our approach was to create something that’s not only appealing to the everyday truck owner, but also attainable. And based on the response at the show, we nailed it.”
The masculine exterior styling of the 2019 Ford Ranger was further accentuated with a custom white and black paint by Sherwin-Williams, Borla cat-back exhaust with black chrome tips and differential cover, BDS suspension and upper control arms, Fox 2.5 Factory Series DSC coil-overs and 2.0 rear shocks, Nitto Ridge Grappler 33-by-12.5-inch tires, Fuel Vector 20-by-9-inch rims, Ford Performance off-road tow hooks and red recovery points, REV hard rolling tonneau cover, UnderCover™ Pivot Storage Box, Sundial window tint, and Ford-licensed Air Design door rocker moldings, front bumper lower center bar with bumper flares, fender vents, hood scoop, rear cab spoiler, tailgate spoiler, and tailgate appliqué. Interior styling was perfected with custom black leather seats featuring white thread and a carpeted Sportliner by Bedrug.
For his work, Longfellow was honored with a Ford Design Special Recognition Award for Outstanding Achievement in Design.
“It’s always nice for people to recognize your hard work, but it’s even more special to have the opportunity to work alongside such talent every day,” he said. “This build wouldn’t have been possible without the collaboration of our aftermarket partners. I’m honored and grateful for their participation.”
