F-Series has been the best-selling truck in the US for 37 years. With some pretty impressive advances in pickups from Ram and others in the past year or so, the F-150’s sales leadership might not be as undisputed as Ford wants to think it is, though. With an eye toward maintaining its leadership, Ford pulled the wraps off of the next-generation F-150 in Detroit. The new F-150 has undergone a high-tech evolution, keeping its tough looks while incorporating new technology under the skin.
The all-new F-150 features a fully boxed frame and an aluminum alloy body that shaves 700 pounds of curb weight. The styling may look a bit familiar, since it’s taken from the Atlas show truck that debuted a couple of years ago. Four engine choices include two EcoBoost engines and two conventional powertrains. A start-stop function will also be available on the 2.7 liter V6 with EcoBoost.
Cool features include LED headlights and taillights, a 360-degree camera, a power-release tailgate and clever cargo-management features in the bed that make it easier to attach ramps and other accessories. Four 110-volt outlets live inside the truck, and Ford’s safety innovations like a blind-spot monitoring system and inflatable rear seatbelts are also available.
The new F-150 goes on sale later this year, with all of the familiar trim levels and packages along for the ride.
