The SUT (Sports Utility Truck) was invented by the first generation Explorer Sport Trac in 2001 – a short pick-up bed replacing the estate car rear of the then new Explorer. This show car version of a new second generation SUT from Ford plays on its slightly 'bling' status with 21inch wheels, 'slammed ride' and fashionable colour and trim; white exterior, muted metals, subtle dark greys, and minimal brightwork or use of colour.



The Explorer Trac is significant in several ways: as a prelude to a near identical production car; in the way that the world’s largest OEM is clearly taking a lead from after-market driven trends; and because the SUT is the hottest new type of vehicle in the North American market. The Explorer Trac is also a very tidily executed and attractive design whose theme of cabin floating on running board, between rear flat-bed and front engine area is very successful.



Source: Car Design News

redriderbob

 

It is sad to say, I actually like this thing. I thought it was funny, when I seen it at NAIAS, I was standing there telling my dad about it, when the spokesman was talking about "how much better it is than the current model", and about how "it has a anti-roll program to keep the vehicle from roll-overs at high speed manuvers", since the current ones have that problem. I started laughing, and he looked at me, and I turned to my father and said aloud... "too bad the current pieces of crap, don't have that", he actually came to a stop in his speech to look at me, my dad and I were just laughing so hard... it was great. But you know if it makes it into production, they will screw up the styling and etc. and it will become another typical Ford truck... a pile!

redriderbob