Overlanding -- traveling by vehicle, usually off-road, usually off the grid, usually camping -- is a balancing act between bringing a vehicle that's big enough to carry all of your stuff for an extended period of time, but small and maneuverable enough to get through tight obstacles to get farther off the beaten path. Or you can just say "screw it" and get the biggest vehicle you can find. And then attach a trailer.
The 2022 Ford Expedition Timberline Off-Grid concept premiered on Friday, in conjunction with the Overland Expo East in Arrington, Virginia. It's the most off-road capable Expedition ever, says Ford. We'll add, as long as the trails are 10 feet wide.
"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, program manager of the concept.
The Expedition Timberline Off-Grid concept starts with the lifted ride height, from 10.6 inches to 12.6, with 2.5-inch Fox Performance shocks with "Dual Speed Compression" quick adjusters and remote reservoirs. It also gets 17-inch Method Race Wheels with 35-inch General Grabber all-terrain tires.
The topographic map paint was done by CG Detroit and the factory paint color is called Forged Green. The Off-Grid gets a ton of dealer-available aftermarket accessories too including an Overland Vehicle Systems' Nomadic 180-degree awning that pulls out to protect from the elements, a Thule Tepui Explorer tent, a Wild Land portable shower and a factory-available transmission shield.
A 50-inch Rigid light bar sits up high while a 20-inch bar is situated below the grille. It also has cube lights on top of the hood and spotlights near the wheel wells and liftgate. If the zombies are afraid of light, the Off-Grid will be your beacon.
Inside there's a custom aluminum dual storage unit, a camping mattress from Luno along with window shades and a USB fan to keep you cool at night. Speaking of keeping things plugged in, the concept features a Clarios AGM battery that should last longer than your average Die Hard.
That triangle trailer is called the Turtleback Expedition Series and matches the SUV in wheels and paint. It not only holds additional gear, but comes with a propane stove and deep well sink, two tables, a 42-gallon water tank, six-gallon water heater, a show hookup and extra propane tank. You can also order with a refrigerator and a 100-watt solar panel. Okay. We do get the appeal. But you'll need to bring $27K to take one home. And then find a car to attach it to.
You'd be well on your way with a standard Explorer Timberline for $46,015, but if you happen to be in Virginia this weekend, check it the concept. You can also see it at SEMA in Las Vegas this November.