Ford introduces Desert Driving Tips video series
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Ford's Essential Desert Driving Tips for Off-Road Adventures
Introduction to Desert Driving
Making the most of the desert season that has officially kicked off across the Middle East, Ford introduces a series of Desert Driving Tips to help those take on the dunes with family and friends. Amongst the many fears that new drivers have, getting stuck in the sand is a big one, especially for those who look at venturing with young children along for the ride.
Ford's Desert Driving Series
To help all (new drivers and seasoned experts) make the most of the cooler months and enjoy the dunes of the Middle East, Ford’s six-part series covers the basic aspects of driving off-road and equips adventurers with the right tools and knowledge to venture off the beaten path this winter.
Choosing the Right Vehicle for Off-Road Driving
The first episode revolves around choosing the right vehicle to go off-road, explaining the difference between crossovers and SUVs, and how that affects their performance in the sand. Not all off-road vehicles are created equal; some simply aren’t designed for negotiating their way through soft, deep sand.
Key Features of Off-Road Vehicles
“You really need to look at a vehicle that has good ground clearance, four-wheel drive with low-range, and the capability to be taken out in the dunes,” said Mike Chavez, series co-host and Ford Middle East Product Development Lead Technologist. Crossovers are usually limited in their ground clearance, and approach and departure angles which are typically less than you need for off-roading.
Essential Off-Road Driving Tips
The initial basics include:
- Deflating tires so that the vehicle’s weight is spread out across a wider area.
- Allowing the vehicle to float over the sand instead of digging into it.
It is also important for all drivers to remember that driving off-road can be enjoyable and different, but it also comes with risks, which is why they should never venture out alone.
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