Ford has revealed the 14th generation F-150 pickup truck, claimed to be the most productive and most powerful in its class. It also gets a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain for the first time.
As for the exterior styling, the new F-150 looks more like a facelift or a mild refresh, and doesn’t really look like it’s a new generation vehicle. There are no dramatic changes here and maybe that’s the idea, to keep things simple and subtle. There’s a redesigned front grille flanked by new LED headlights, restyled front bumper, new taillights and that’s more or less it.
There are 11 grille options available across the lineup, all with a unique design. There are new tailgate appliqués too. The new F-150 is also claimed to be the most aerodynamic ever, thanks to the new active grille shutters that help reduce drag and contribute to improving fuel efficiency.
Buyers can opt for full-length extended power running boards with kick switch for better truck-side cargo box accessibility.
The impressive new interior is focused on improving productivity. The optional Work Surface on the centre console is designed for signing documents, working on a 15-inch laptop or enjoying a meal when parked, Ford said. As we can see in the pictures, the shifter neatly folds into the centre console to make way for that Work Surface.
Max Recline Seats that fold flat to nearly 180 degrees are available on King Ranch, Platinum and Limited trims.
Another option is a lockable, fold-flat rear storage that extends the width of the rear seats. The bottom cushion of the rear seats can be lifted up to access the vault. It’s great for storing long items like fishing rods or blueprints, it even has a divider to keep gear organized, Ford says.
Other technologies onboard include standard SYNC 4 system, 12-inch central screen (standard on XLT and above), Apple CarPlay & Android Auto connectivity, SYNC AppLink, optional 12-inch digital instrument cluster, optional 8-speaker B&O sound system or the 18-speaker B&O Unleashed system, FordPass mobile app that allows the drivers to unlock and start the vehicle, and the complementary 911 Assist that automatically alerts emergency responders in the event of an accident.
As for driver assistance systems, the new F-150 gets the Co-Pilot360 2.0 suite. More features are now standard on the XL trim, including Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection. The truck also gets Active Drive Assist, which allows for hands-free driving on more than 100,000 miles of divided highways in all 50 states and Canada, Ford said.
The hardware required for Active Drive Assist already exists, it just needs to be activated via software, either over-the-air update or dealer visit. It is expected in the third quarter of 2021.
More options include Trailer Reverse Guidance and Pro Trailer Backup Assist. Trailer Reverse Guidance uses the truck’s cameras to provide multiple views along with helpful graphics that tell drivers which way to turn the steering wheel while backing up. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist takes care of the steering wheel while the driver simply rotates a knob left or right.
Another big feature the new F-150 boasts of is the Pro Power Onboard – an integrated power generator, available in different power outputs depending on the variant. The PowerBoost-equipped (hybrid) F-150 for example, comes standard with 2.4 kW output or an optional 7.2 kW output. Power is accessible through in-cabin outlets and up to four cargo bed-mounted 120-volt 20-amp outlets, with a 240-volt 30-amp outlet on the 7.2 kW version.
Powertrains
Moving on to the business end of the story, the new F-150 is available with different powertrains: 3.3L N/A V6 gasoline, 2.7L EcoBoost (twin-turbo) V6 gasoline, 5.0L N/A V8 gasoline, 3.5L EcoBoost (twin-turbo) V6 gasoline, 3.0L Power Stroke (turbocharged) V6 diesel, and of course, the 3.5L PowerBoost (twin-turbo) V6 gasoline-electric full hybrid. A bit more info here.
Ford has kept the technical information for a later date. However, the PowerBoost gets a 35 kW (48 hp) electric motor integrated into the 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. The electric motor is supported by a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
For the hybrid variant, Ford is targeting an EPA-estimated range of approximately 700 miles (1,126 km) on a single tank of gas and at least 12,000 pounds (5,443 kg) of maximum towing capability.
The new F-150 will be available this fall.
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