The streets of Kerala are currently witnessing an unusual behemoth, a Ford F-650 Super Duty, which seems more at home on American highways than the bustling roads of this Indian state. The massive vehicle, turning heads and raising eyebrows, has been brought to the region by renowned businessman Dr. Boby Chemmanur. Imported temporarily from Dubai under an ATA Carnet, this mammoth machine is causing quite a stir.
Manufactured by Ford, the F-650 is part of the company’s medium-duty truck range, which is an offshoot of its smaller F-Series pickup trucks. Now in its eighth generation, this commercial truck is not just any ordinary vehicle. It boasts a gross weight of a staggering 22,679 kg and is fueled by a massive 435-litre fuel tank, ensuring it can go long distances without a refill.
Under its hood, the F-650 houses a 7.3L V8 petrol engine, delivering a robust 335 horsepower and 634 Nm of torque. It features the Ford TorqShift Heavy-Duty 6-speed Automatic Transmission with Double Overdrive, minus the PTO Provision, and a Tow/Haul mode for heavy-duty hauling. As if that’s not enough, it also offers an alternative 6.7L PowerStroke V8 Turbo Diesel engine, churning out 270 horsepower and an impressive 949 Nm of torque, coupled with a TorqShift HD 10-Speed Automatic Double Overdrive with PTO Provision and Tow/Haul mode.
In the USA, this giant on wheels costs INR 57.90 lakh. Adding to its versatility, the F-650 is equipped with a CNG/Propane Gaseous Engine Prep Package, which includes hardened engine intake valves, exhaust valves, and valve seats.
While this Ford F-650 Super Duty might be a common sight on American roads, in the narrow and crowded streets of Kerala, it’s nothing short of a monstrous spectacle, challenging the norms of everyday traffic and turning the simple act of driving into an event worth watching.
