Earlier than Transit Path, Ford Had The Funky Econoline Kilimanjaro Idea

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Ford simply unveiled the Transit Path as a van with overlanding in thoughts, together with customary options like all-wheel drive, a lifted trip peak, and all-terrain tires. Whereas this mannequin is new, the concept shouldn’t be. The 1970 Econoline Kilimanjaro idea was a kitschy interpretation of a rig for off-road adventures.

We requested the Ford Archives for extra particulars concerning the Kilimanjaro van, and it was in a position to get us an authentic press launch (see gallery under). Dated November 11, 1969, the doc describes the automobile as “a rugged and spacious four-wheel-drive automobile designed to maneuver by swampy jungles or desert sands carrying hunters, rifles, ammunition and a two-way radio.”

Oddly, the discharge makes no point out of the van’s coolest function. Massive panels on the rear open to show a portion of the edges and roof. Whereas this appears good for getting take a look at nature, the reference to carrying hunters, rifles, and ammunition makes us marvel if the precise intention is as a capturing platform.

At the least the motive force’s aspect has a ladder built-in into the physique. An individual may use it to climb up the automobile to entry the full-sized spare tire on the roof.

The discharge describes the van’s shade as “bush jacket beige.” Plus, a large Leopard-print stripe wraps round the entire physique. Whether or not or not this mixture seems to be good is subjective, nevertheless it actually makes a press release.

A modified bumper holds a pair of gasoline cans, which does not appear to be the most secure location for them in a front-end collision. There are additionally two spotlights.

The van rides on Firestone-branded tires with a really chunky tread sample.

Sadly, we do not know any extra concerning the Kilimanjaro idea. A Chicago Auto Present web page signifies the van was on show there, probably in 1970.

Ford Dealer Magazine January February 1974 1970 Ford Kilimanjaro Van Concept

The Ford Archives additionally despatched us a scanned article from the January-February 1974 challenge of Ford Seller Journal (above). Jerome-Duncan Ford in Sterling Heights, Michigan, held a particular occasion to spur RV gross sales in September 1973. As a part of the promotion, the Kilimanjaro idea was on show within the showroom. A Baja Bronco was there, too.

Sadly, the article did not specify whether or not Jerome-Duncan Ford owned the Kilimanjaro idea, borrowed it from Ford, or bought the van from a 3rd get together. The story is at the least a affirmation of the automobile surviving till 1973.

If you understand some other particulars concerning the Kilimanjaro idea, particularly its destiny immediately, tell us within the feedback.

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