For over 40 years, America has had one truck that has dominated the market, and when you really think about it, that’s a long time, especially for a vehicle. With so much evolution in the industry, not to mention changes in how we travel, being able to boast about this is unreal, but the Ford F-150 does just that, and proudly. A lot has happened in 40 years, from welcoming in a new millennium to embracing a digital world, but the F-150 has continued to stand tall at the top of the list when it comes to strong trucks, able to accomplish more. The next time you pass by a Ford F-150 dealer, take note of all the options that reside on the lot, from brand-new models to classics and pre-owned models, noticing the rich history that resides beneath the F-150’s polished exterior.
A Celebrated History
Not only has the F-150 been a part of the Ford lineup for decades, it’s backed by a name that emanates greatness as one of the first automakers to pave the way in the industry. The first-generation F-Series made its grand debut in the late 40s after the war, offering more everyday drivers the chance to own a vehicle that could handle more. The F-Series would unknowingly create a flurry of activity in the industry, as more automakers sought out to compete with Ford’s dependable, durable, and affordable offering. The 1950s brought the naming system that we know today, with the emergence of the F-100, F-250, and F-350, as well as more comfort elements within its cabin to add more value to these esteemed travelers, like armrests, dome lights, and more.
In the late 50s, the F-Series began to evolve with the wider stance that we continue to enjoy today and more capabilities, including four-wheel drive to enhance its performance, no matter where it traveled. The Ford slogan, “Drives like a car, works like a truck,” was heard throughout the nation, as Ford unveiled even more capable and versatile trucks designed for the modern-day worker. With a more distinguished design, marked by the bold FORD lettering on its hood, the F-Series continued to solidify its presence as one of the most recognizable trucks in the industry. As the years went on, more and more Ford trucks were seen on job sites across America, known for their durability, strength, and dependability that could only be found in a Ford.
As the ’80s came into view, the F-Series trucks sported improved design, with more aerodynamic elements and enhanced style inside and out. More special editions came and went as the decades rolled by, as well as increased power and capabilities in its Super Duty models. Recent years have brought us the exhilarating Tremor, as well as the re-emergence of the popular Ranger, and as the F-Series enters into its fourteenth generation, it continues to be a best-seller. Enhanced power, more tech, and elevated style can be found within this legendary machine, making it one of the top sellers, not only in the U.S. but all over the world. When you want to be the best of the best, it helps to start out with a reputation that can stand the test of time.
Jaw-Dropping Capabilities
Many drivers choose the F-150 due to its abundance of performance features, designed to get the job done right, which makes it a staple on job sites across the nation. Built Ford Tough, the F-150 features best-in-class available towing capabilities, class-leading available payload capacity, plus a variety of engines to make any job easier. Innovative trailering tech adds enhanced confidence to any haul, with a Smart Trailer Tow Connector, which provides alerts to any issues that need to be resolved with your trailer, while class-first onboard scales help drivers load up their F-150 beds with precision for a safe and controlled journey.
One of the best attributes of the F-150 is all of the options you have to design the truck that works best for your needs, whether they’re on the jobsite or traversing the trails. From its 3.0L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel, offering intense power mixed with unrivaled efficiency, to its High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost, designed for maximum capabilities, and everything in between, there’s an engine in the F-150 lineup to appeal to any driving needs. Another attribute that makes the F-150 great is its strong build, with its military-grade aluminum-alloy body and reinforced steel frame giving the F-150 the power to complete any size job without hesitation.
In addition to being unbelievably strong, newer F-150s are offered with some of the most revolutionary tech on the market, including Ford BlueCruise, a hands-free driving experience. Utilizing Adaptive Cruise Control, paired with over 100,000 miles of pre-mapped roadways across North America, the F-150 is able to navigate traffic efficiently and safely while drivers enjoy the ride. You’ll also notice that the new F-150s showcase helpful driver assist features, like Active Park Assist 2.0, to make maneuvering this rugged truck anywhere easy and safe. As you can see, the F-150 just continues to evolve with the changing trends, which is what keeps it at the top year after year.
A Bright Future
In order to stay a favorite, you always have to be evolving and getting better, and the F-150 does just that. Future vehicles, like the F-150 Lightning, take all of the beloved features of the F-150 and electrify them, offering drivers even more options in the F-Series lineup. As the first-ever gas-free F-150, the Lightning not only offers undeniable efficiency, it also showcases a power that can’t be beat, as well as some of the most cutting-edge tech found on the market. This all-electric pickup truck seeks to revolutionize the way we travel, giving drivers more of what they need without compromise.
You’ll also find that Ford currently offers a hybrid engine in the F-150 lineup, a 3.5L PowerBoost V6, which not only showcases immense power with 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque, it’s also more efficient and better for the environment than traditional gas-powered options. The best thing about the hybrid engine is its unbeatable strength, able to tow up to 12,700 lbs, and offering a payload capacity of 2,120 lbs. It just goes to show that as the market is shifting toward more hybrid and electric offerings, Ford has no problem keeping up and exceeding expectations.
A Ford Icon
There aren’t too many vehicles out there that can say they’ve lasted this long in the industry, and when it comes to being a best-seller, few vehicles can make it a couple of years in a row, let alone decades. There’s a reason why the F-150 continues to be an American favorite. Through its storied history and unbreakable reputation, unhindered capabilities, and high-end performance, plus new offerings on the horizon, the F-150 just continues to secure its place at the top each and every year.
When you strive for greatness, you have to be willing to put in the work, which is exactly what Ford does with the most iconic pickup truck in existence. As the years continue to go on, the F-150 will undoubtedly get better, stronger, faster, and more efficient, as well as offer more choices for a variety of drivers for all of their lifestyle needs. When it comes to the best, the F-150 reigns supreme, and when it comes to the future, the F-150 plans on occupying the top spot for the next 40 years and beyond.
