Be it towing a caravan or a trailer, the all-new Ranger gives drivers additional confidence and control with an innovative technology that mitigates trailer sway.

The Trailer Sway Control feature available in the all-new Ranger XLS, XLT and Wildtrack derivatives, assists the driver when ‘‘snaking’’ occurs.

Trailer sway –  a phenomenon where the trailer swings from side to side and compromises vehicle control –  can be a cause of accidents for vehicles which are towing.

While technology provides an added layer of security, it’s not a substitute for drivers displaying caution when towing. Excessive speed, poorly distributed loads and improperly inflated tyres can all negatively influence the trailer stability. Weather conditions such as slick roads and crosswinds are also factors. 

The Trailer Sway Control feature is part of the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) system and continuously monitors the yaw rate of the vehicle and compares this to  steering angle. If swaying is detected without appropriate driver input, all-new Ranger is designed to react accordingly to correct instability.

For moderate sway, the front brakes will engage in a left-right alternating pattern to generate a yaw movement in the vehicle that counteracts the trailer sway.

For more severe sway, engine torque is reduced to zero and brake pressure is applied to all four wheels in order to reduce the vehicle’s speed below the trailer’s critical speed.

Of course, these systems aren’t the only way the all-new Ranger can assist drivers who tow.

The smart Rear View Camera system that displays the video image in the rear view mirror can be a big help when hooking up to your trailer.

Ranger has also gone through rigorous real-life testing to ensure it can cope with the demands towing places on the engine and clutch –  offering extra peace of mind all round if you’re hitching up the caravan for a holiday.

The All New Ford Ranger will be shown at JIMS in October this year!