Since EVs have become more widespread, you’ve probably heard of the term “frunk,” as in “front trunk,” the storage space many EVs have in place of a gas engine. But what about a “truckle”? That’s Ford-speak for a belt buckle that doubles as a key fob locker, which the Blue Oval started selling last year. The newest model, the Ford Raptor Truckle, will be available November 10.
The back of the original Ford Truckle (Photo courtesy of Ford From the Road)
In hindsight, it seems logical that Ford began offering Truckles. Vehicles are more than just transportation — they’re a central component in certain lifestyles and can be used in conjunction with a variety of accessories. Many people who drive Ford trucks also wear big Western-style belt buckles. Not only does the Truckle coordinate with that fashion but, like a truck, it also offers utility in the form of a hidden space for the key fob for 2018 and newer trucks.
Photo courtesy of Ford From the Road
As Ford did with the original Truckle, it turned to former PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association) bull rider and founder of A Cut Above Buckles Andy Andrews for the Raptor model. According to Ford, “In the rodeo, he competed with Native American and Hispanic cowboys who were also incredibly skilled silversmiths. Andrews was curious and would watch them work, eventually teaching himself silversmithing in the 1970s and 1980s, making jewelry and learning to engrave.” After retiring from the rodeo and moving to Los Angeles to further develop his designs and craftsmanship, Andrews got a contract as the official buckle maker for the International Rodeo Association in 1999. Twenty-seven years later, Andrews and his family business are still supplying the organization with their signature hardware.
Photo courtesy of Ford From the Road
Visually, the Raptor Truckle is probably what you’d expect. Rendered in gold and black, it has an ornate desert landscape border that frames a trio of amber marker lights and FORD in big, bold letters. Given the oscillating horizontal grille bars, it seems Ford and Andrews were inspired by the F-150 Raptor, although Ranger Raptor and Bronco Raptor drivers should have no problem pulling off the Raptor Truckle look.
Whether you’re a Raptor driver or the owner of a regular Ford truck, you can order the new Ford Raptor Truckle on Tuesday, November 10 on A Cut Above Buckles’ website. Only 500 will be made. As of right now, pricing isn’t available, but keep in mind that the previous Truckle (which is sold out) has a starting price of $250.
