Ford recently launched the Transit Trail as a van with overlanding in mind, including standard features like all-wheel drive, raised ride height and all-terrain tires. Although this model is new, the idea is not. The Econoline Kilimanjaro 1970 concept is a kitschy interpretation of the rig for off-road adventure.
We asked Ford Archives for more details on the Kilimanjaro van, and it was able to provide us with the original press release (see gallery below). Dated November 11, 1969, the document describes the vehicle as “a rugged, spacious four-wheel-drive vehicle designed to maneuver through a swamp or desert forest carrying hunters, rifles, ammunition, and a two-way radio.”
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Oddly enough, the release doesn’t mention the van’s coolest feature. The large rear panel opens to partially expose the sides and roof. While this seems perfect for a good look at nature, the reference to carrying hunters, rifles, and ammunition makes us wonder if its real intent was as a shooting platform.
At least the driver’s side has a ladder integrated into the body. One can use it to climb up the vehicle to access the full sized spare tire on the roof.
The release describes the color of the van as a “bush jacket beige.” Plus, a wide Leopard-print line wraps around the body. Whether or not this combination looks good is subjective, but it certainly makes a statement.
The modified bumper houses a pair of gas cans, which doesn’t seem like the safest location for them in a front-end crash. There are also two spotlights.
The van rides on Firestone brand tires with a very thick tread pattern.
Unfortunately, we don’t know much more about the Kilimanjaro concept. Chicago Auto Show Page shows the van on display there, probably 1970.
The Ford Archives also sent us a scanned article from the January-February 1974 issue of Ford Dealer Magazine (above). Jerome-Duncan Ford in Sterling Heights, Michigan, held a special event to spur RV sales in September 1973. As part of the promotion, the Kilimanjaro concept was on display in showrooms. A Baja Bronco is also there.
Unfortunately, the article doesn’t detail whether Jerome-Duncan Ford owned the Kilimanjaro concept, borrowed it from Ford, or got the van from a third party. The story is at least a confirmation of the vehicle that lasted until 1973.
If you know any other details about the Kilimanjaro concept, especially its fate today, let us know in the comments.
