For 2001 Detroit Auto Show, Ford show one unusual concept wey dem call Explorer Sportsman. Dis one na SUV wey dem design special for fishermen. Dem build am on third-generation Explorer chassis, but e get unique green paint wey shine like satin, plus silver accents wey sweet.
The concept get electronic running boards wey suppose help person enter and comot. According to auction site Bring A Trailer, dem running boards no dey work now. But originally, dem fit hold fishing rods. The roof rack get special design wey fit slide comot for side, so you fit load fishing rods and nets easy.
Inside, the cabin get woven leather seat, Bloodwood wood trim from Australia, and aluminum accents. Dem even put GPS navigation wey dem say dem dey control with computer mouse. But the most interesting thing na the 30-gallon live fish tank wey dem hide under cargo floor. Fishermen fit keep their catch alive inside.
Ford never put this concept for production. But after 24 years, e show up for Bring a Trailer auction. At time of writing, bid reach $13,500. The listing note that the electronic running boards no dey work, but overall condition na excellent.
The powertrain na Mazda engine wey dem pair with four-speed automatic transmission. Dem also fit part-time four-wheel-drive. But no think to drive am for road. E no get VIN, and Ford put plate wey say e no fit register for public road. So e better as collector item.
This concept show how Ford dey think for niche customers for early 2000s. Although e never enter production, e show Ford ambition to create SUV wey fit fishing and outdoor activities. Today, such concept become collector item, even if dem practical value limited to museum or camping decoration.
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