2000 Ford Equator

The Ford Equator, based on the best-selling F-150 truck, is a concept vehicle that "screams adventure," says Ford. An independent suspension, inspired by off-road racers, uses aluminum upper control arms designed for maximum travel, adjustable 32-in. coils over gas-linked shocks, and a custommachined steering linkage. Bumpers, fenders, wheel wells, and lower trim panels are Kevlar. The four-passenger vehicle also has a panel beneath each high-cut door that hydraulically folds down to create a step. When the steps are folded up, they provide a watertight barrier for the passenger compartment.