When it comes to safety, many of us want the best protection for ourselves and our loved ones. The Ford Explorer stands out as a popular choice for families and professionals alike, but one question often arises: Does it come with ballistic inserts? In this article, we’ll clarify this topic and explore the other impressive safety features that make the Explorer a reliable option, especially if you’re in law enforcement or security services.
What Are Ballistic Inserts?
Ballistic inserts are specialized components that aim to enhance a vehicle’s protection against projectiles. Typically made from materials such as Kevlar or high-grade steel, these inserts provide a shield against bullets and other forms of attacks. You’ll commonly find ballistic inserts in military vehicles, armored vehicles, and specific law enforcement models, where protection is essential. Their primary purpose is to increase the survivability of occupants in high-risk scenarios, making them invaluable for personnel who often face dangerous situations.
Does Ford Include Ballistic Inserts in the Ford Explorer?
So, does Ford put ballistic inserts in Explorers? The straightforward answer is no. Ford doesn’t typically offer ballistic inserts as standard features in civilian versions of the Explorer, as the company focuses on creating vehicles that meet everyday safety standards rather than specialized military or tactical requirements. While Ford’s civilian models are equipped with numerous safety features, ballistic inserts fall outside the typical scope of these vehicles.
However, Ford does cater to law enforcement and military markets with specialized versions of the Explorer. These variants may include optional packages or modifications that offer enhanced protection, including ballistic panels for cars. These tailored models are designed to meet the specific needs of first responders and security personnel, providing additional layers of safety in high-stress environments.
Ford Explorer’s Safety Features
While ballistic inserts may not be standard in the Explorer, this vehicle shines in numerous other safety and security aspects. Here’s a look at some of its key features:
Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology
The Ford Explorer comes standard with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assistance features designed to enhance safety and driver confidence. This suite includes:
- Precollision assist with automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot information system with cross-traffic alert
- Lane-keeping system
- Adaptive cruise control
Advanced Airbag System
The Ford Explorer is equipped with an advanced airbag system to protect occupants in the event of a collision. This system includes front airbags, side-impact airbags for the front seats, and side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor that deploys to cover all three rows of seating. The Safety Canopy System provides additional protection in side-impact and rollover situations, helping to reduce the risk of injury to passengers. These airbags work in conjunction with the vehicle’s robust structural design to enhance occupant safety.
Reinforced Vehicle Frame and Design for Crash Protection
The Ford Explorer features a reinforced frame and design that enhance crash protection. With high-strength steel and advanced engineering, it effectively absorbs impact forces. Strategically placed crumple zones minimize energy transfer to occupants, while the frame maintains cabin integrity, providing a protective shell. These enhancements contribute to the Explorer’s high safety ratings in various crash scenarios.
Police-Specific Explorer Model and Its Special Modifications
Ford also offers a police version of the Explorer, the Police Interceptor Utility. This police-specific model features a powerful engine, all-wheel drive, and a spacious interior, making it suitable for various environments. Key modifications include heavy-duty brakes, a reinforced frame, and advanced electrical systems to support additional communications and emergency equipment. The vehicle is also equipped with police-specific enhancements such as a high-capacity cooling system, special suspension tuning, and upgraded charging systems to handle the demands of law enforcement operations.
Misconceptions About Ballistic Inserts in SUVs
Many people mistakenly assume that SUVs such as the Ford Explorer come equipped with ballistic protection. This misconception often arises from a general perception of SUVs as rugged, durable vehicles. However, it’s crucial to clarify that civilian vehicles, including the Explorer, typically adhere to standard safety regulations rather than military specifications.
Ballistic inserts are not commonly found in civilian vehicles because they add weight, complexity, and cost that most drivers don’t need. Manufacturers such as Ford prioritize safety features that protect occupants during everyday driving scenarios — such as airbag deployment and crash test ratings — rather than providing the kind of specialized protection that ballistic inserts offer.
Ford’s Approach to Vehicle Safety
Ford takes vehicle safety seriously, emphasizing crash-test ratings and innovative safety technologies across its lineup. The company conducts rigorous testing to ensure that its vehicles provide maximum protection for occupants.
The Explorer often receives high ratings in safety tests, showcasing its commitment to protecting you and your passengers. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, with top ratings of “Good” in all crashworthiness tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration even awarded the Explorer an overall five-star rating, the highest possible, with five stars in front and side crash tests and four stars in the rollover test.
In addition, the Ford Explorer is frequently used by first responders and government agencies, proving its reliability and rugged performance in real-world conditions. Agencies often choose the Explorer for its combination of space, comfort, and safety features, demonstrating that it can handle demanding situations, even without ballistic inserts.
Explore Safety in the Ford Explorer
While Ford doesn’t include ballistic inserts in the civilian Explorer, this vehicle offers a wide range of other crucial safety features that ensure protection on the road. Whether you’re looking for advanced driver-assistance systems or a robust design for crash protection, the Explorer has you covered.
At Jim Burke Ford in Bakersfield, California, we invite you to explore the various Explorer trims available and discuss safety options tailored to both civilian and specialized needs. Schedule a test-drive today or speak with one of our knowledgeable sales representatives about the Ford Explorer’s impressive safety features.
Riverside Police SUV on Sunny Day by Selvin Esteban is licensed with Pexels License
