Call it a mobile basecamp, call it an overlanding vehicle, call it a hopped-up purpose-driven SUV. The recently debuted Ford Expedition Timberline Off-Grid concept vehicle is spot-on with what many consumers are DIYing.
According to Ford, the 2022 Expedition has the best available ground clearance in its class at 10.6 inches, and the Timberline Off-Grid adds another two inches with custom FOX Performance Elite Series 2.5-inch shocks with Dual Speed Compression adjusters and remote reservoirs front and rear. Seventeen-inch Method Race Wheels are wrapped with 35-inch General Grabber all-terrain tires to reach and enjoy trailheads and desert runs.
“The Expedition Timberline Off-Grid concept provides a futuristic view of how family adventurers can potentially get even more out of an Expedition Timberline, including the absolute best mobile basecamp,” said Robert Varto, Ford’s Expedition Timberline Off-Grid concept program manager.
Overlanding? Suspension upgrade matters
FOX provides OE-spec Live Valve on the popular Raptor, so when it came to a suspension solution the Michigan automaker called us for custom shocks with DSC adjusters. Common mistakes with overlanding begin with overloading the vehicle, which literally weighs heavily on the comfort and control of your vehicle if you don’t consider suspension upgrades before hitting the road.
Read “How Shocks Make A Difference When You Tow“
Escaping but equipped
Varto’s concept vehicle leverages Ford’s Outfitter collection with dealer-available accessories, including:
- Thule Tepui Explorer tent with crossbars
- Factory-available transmission shield
- Overland Vehicle Systems’ Nomadic 180-degree awning
- Wild Land portable privacy room shower
A 50-inch Rigid light bar is mounted above the windshield with an additional Rigid 20-inch light bar below the grille and D-SS Rigid side shooter cube lights installed atop the hood. Rigid spotlights mounted within the wheel wells and liftgate provide more illumination at night.
Inside, an EZ STAK custom aluminum dual storage drawer unit sits under a custom Luno camping mattress with room for two. Luno also provides a concept-specific Base Extender, window shades and portable USB fan. For off-the-grid campsites, Varto chose a Clarios AGM battery specifically designed for vehicles needing power.
Turtleback trailer
The Turtleback Expedition Series trailer matches the Expedition Timberline Off-Grid concept with Method wheels and Grabber tires. Designed to hold additional gear for an extended cross-country trip, it includes:
- Two-burner propane stove and deep-well sink
- Two drop-down tables
- 42-gallon water tank
- 6-gallon water heater with external shower hookup
- Pancake propane tank
Available options include a refrigerator and a 100-watt solar panel. The Expedition Timberline Off-Grid concept vehicle will be shown at Overland Expo East at Oak Ridge Estates in Arrington, Virginia October 8-10 then at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, November 2-5.
Interested in more overlanding vehicle options from FOX Factory? Visit RMT Overland and Outside Van.
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