A new fleet of Ford Ranger pickups is making waves with Southern Water drivers, helping the company reach remote areas with ease. Over 30 Rangers have joined the utility provider’s line-up, supporting operations such as off-road sewer repairs and leak management across the Southeast.

For Daniel Rayner-Gray, Operations Assistant Manager, the trucks have quickly become an essential part of his day-to-day work. “The truck is our office,” he explained. “It’s really important to be comfortable, which the cabs are. The vehicles have heated seats, extra room, reverse cameras and parking sensors. The new trucks are a big hit with me and my team.”

Southern Water Ford Ranger

The Rangers’ four-wheel-drive capability has proven invaluable for tackling tough terrain, from boggy fields to farmland. Their towing power is another major asset, with the vehicles able to haul jetting equipment and machinery weighing over three tons.

The Ford Ranger trucks are part of a larger investment by Southern Water, which is rolling out over 300 new vehicles in total. The upgrades aren’t just about rugged performance — they’re also geared toward safety and sustainability. Solar panels on the roofs of vans allow engineers to charge equipment on-site, reducing the need to return to depots. Additional safety features include onboard weighing systems, all-season tyres, cruise control, and a speed limiter capped at 70 mph.

The fleet is driven by a range of operational, technical, and customer teams, providing crucial support in both urban and rural areas.

Phil Huff