2015 Ford F150 Sneak Peak

Massive and lighter don't always coincide. They do with the new F150 from Ford due out this fall as a 2015 model.  Through the extensive use of "military grade" Aluminum this truck is reportedly at least 700 lbs lighter than the outgoing model.  Changes like that impact everything about this truck.  Smaller engines can be used yielding better fuel economy without sacraficing power we are used to.  Handling improves as much as straightl line performance.

I gotr a sneak peak  up close and personal at a prototype of the truck.  I could walk around and kick the tires, but I couldn't get inside. Bummer as the inside looks markedly different and appeared to use my better materials than the outgoing truck, and that one is nothing to sneeze at in terms of all around goodness.

Twin -LED headlamps are visible up front. In the rear there are back up cameras on this Lariat trimmed model.  Ditto back up sensors, kind of redundant, but very helpful if you will use the beast for trailering.

Powertrains are where the big shake up happens for this truck.  Gone is the 3.7L replaced by a 3.5lV6.  Remaining is the 3.5L Ecoboost and 5LV8 Coyote.  New to Ford and this truck is a 2.7L Ecoboost V6 with stop/start technology that will easily add 10% to its city numbers when that feature can fuction.  (Ford enables the start/staop feature when you don't have a heating or airconditioning need).  The new 2.7 Ecoboost I look forward to driving most, that's a tiny engine, but with the weight loss it should be ample to power this truck in all but heavy duty towing situations.  Of course I know Ford doesn't build engines for a single product and can't help but wonder where else this powertrain will show up...

The inside of the truck had a massive navigation system, presumably a version of MyFordTouch adapted to the needs of the truck.  Reports are that there will be power outlets inside the truck that will make it possible to recharge your mobile devices as well as power tools.  Something handy for the dude that buys the truck for work and for the soccer moms that love them too.

Here are a few of the key new features on the truck cribbed from a press release:

• Is nearly 700 pounds lighter
• Features two EcoBoost powertrain choices, 
• 2.7L EcoBoost with Auto Start Stop
• Is built with a military-grade aluminum body on a steel frame
• Features safety technology such as Lane-Keeping System and 360-degree camera views
• Helps save gasoline costs
• Features high power outlets for charging mobile devices or power tools

• LED headlamps and LED sideview mirror spotlights
• Active park assist
• 8-inch productivity screen
• Inflatable rear safety belts
• Smarter trailer tow module

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