Ford’s F-150 Marks Record Use of Aluminum

The all-aluminum body on Ford Motor Co.'s 2015 model F-150 fullsize pickup truck accounts for about two-thirds of the next-generation model's 700-lb lighter weight.

Ford says the new truck signals the biggest shift to aluminum in any high-production vehicle. The model, which has been America's best-selling vehicle for 32 years, was publicly introduced on Monday at the Detroit auto show.

The F-150's all-aluminum body-in-white is complemented by an aluminum cargo box and tailgate. Ford says field tests of the latter components with construction companies proved the high-strength aluminum is more durable and dent-resistant than conventional steel.

With so much aluminum in the body, the new F-150's fully boxed frame represents the truck's largest use of steel. Its components are 80% high-strength alloy, which make them some 60 lbs lighter than the frame of the previous-generation F-150.

Ford says the combination of materials makes the new pickup its strongest and most durable F-Series ever.

Ford will offer the truck with a choice four engines, starting with a new turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 expected to lead the segment in fuel economy. Other options include a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter unit, a 3.6-liter turbocharged V-6 and a 5.0-liter V-8. Power and fuel economy ratings for the engines have not been announced.

The F-150 will include such features as a remote-operated tailgate, 360 -video camera, LED headlamps and taillamps, integrated load ramps, 400-volt outlets in the cab and extensive telematics options.