DETROIT – Ford Motor plans to supply a brand new lineup of off-road autos beneath the title Timberline, beginning this summer time with its Explorer SUV.

The 2021 Explorer Timberline, which the corporate unveiled Wednesday, options an up to date exterior design, elevated floor clearance and different off-road options reminiscent of heavy-duty shocks and skid plates to guard the undercarriage of the automobile.

Different SUVs with related options and capabilities beneath the Timberline title are anticipated to observe, nonetheless Ford officers declined to debate additional particulars.

“Ford is delivering on extra succesful SUVs with Timberline. Shopper information has proven us that now greater than ever, clients need to get exterior and discover nature with family and friends,” Kumar Galhotra, Ford president of the Americas & Worldwide Markets Group, stated in an announcement.

With the brand new Timberline trim, Ford appears to capitalize on rising gross sales of SUVs and demand for off-road-capable autos. The appears and options of such autos have turn into extra widespread with mainstream customers lately.

Off-road fashions additionally usually increase income. The Explorer Timberland will begin at $45,765, in accordance with Ford. That pricing positions it in the course of the Explorer lineup however about $13,000 greater than the bottom mannequin.

Ford studies there’s been a 56% improve in off-road use during the last three years for its present Explorer house owners.