Ford recently unveiled its 2015 F-150 aluminum bodied pickup. You want details? Well, everyone of us want details, don’t we? Well, to start off with, this lighter aluminum bodied machine gives 26 mpg(that’s not bad for a truck of that size!). Who doesn’t like a car which is heavy, strong and gives a good mileage. Guess what! Would you believe, Ford is even planning to launch a hybrid version and we have got the news that they’re working very hard to make that happen.
We’ll talk about it later. The spot light now is on the F-150. First question, what does aluminum do for your machine? Basic physics is the answer. A lighter truck has more capacity for hauling than a heavier one for the same strength frame and body. This machine can now offer a substantially larger payload with more towing capacity (of course with less gas burned), all this by just shredding some 700 lbs.
The looks of the pickup truck hasn’t changed much, it still has the techno-locomotive look but with loads of technological advancements and options. The Platinum and King Ranch have LED lighting throughout the seats can be heated/cooled which can massage your lower back. Not forgetting, it can parallel park by itself. Ford builds 26 versions of F-150 frames and ordering can become really complicated at times.
We all know the fact that the F-150 has been undoubtedly America’s best-selling vehicle for decades. It has been the key to Ford’s success worth some $30 billion in revenue and amounting to 40% OF Ford’s annual profits. It is very likely that the car’s manufacturer’s bold move to lighter aluminum body is expected to drag other automakers to rethink their strategy. The company’s trump card is fuel efficiency. Although it has been compared to Ram 1500 which has a higher fuel economy, an owner would also see the cost factor($495 for 2.7L as compared to $ 4,270 for the Ram 1500).
Prices for Ford F-150 start at $25,420. The top model 3.5L Eco boost scored a 20 mpg EPA rating in the combined driving metric. Many of us who are not aware, aluminum costs more than steel (at least 3 times). It requires an altogether different manufacturing process because aluminum bodies can not be easily welded, unlike steel. This has already put a dent in the company finances. But the company is confident to bring its 2 pants upto speed within no time.
Though, the decision to go for aluminum has raised eyebrows. Ford is really taking it head on. In fact, it is looking further on the horizon and planning to switch many of its largest machines to lightweight aluminum. Tougher fuel economy rules will make other automakers follow the lead and come up with aluminum versions as well.
Those people who are into trucks, know it very well that the sticker price is just the starting point, the benefits afterwards are the real deal maker or breaker. If we consider that, F-150 does cost more, however Ford has made sure that their customers get the best deal now that they would be offering 75-month loans through Ford Credit.
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So, are you ready to trade your old car for a F-150?
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This entry was posted in: Buying Cars
Tagged: 2015 ford 150, aluminum body, ford f-150
