i wonder if they will go an electro hydo (aka electric pump) system on a superduty at some point. I dont know how a full on electric system would work with a standard type steering box.

 

I think rack and pinion is the next logical step. Freightliner revealed the first rack and pinion system in a Class 8 truck back in '07, so I'm sure it can be done.

 

Do you think can it be done with a solid front axle and 4wd?

 

If the Freightliner does it with a solid 12,000 lb axle, I'm not sure why not.

 

I ordered the pro back up assist on my 2016 F-150 Lariat 163" wheel base. and personally feel it was a waste of money. May be ok for small empty low profile trailer. However for full size 21-ft enclosed car trailer and 21-ft boat you are better off using mirrors as you normally would. It is more of a novelty than anything useful. I do like the back up camera for backing up and connection to the hitch.

 

It will not come with Pro Trailer Assist but it will have a new system called Trailer Reverse Guidance.

There is more about that on the second link that I posted here:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...l#post16381623

 

Someone posted some documents on Trailer Reverse Guidance on another thread on here.

 

We have it on our 2016 F-150. I'm basically of the mindset that if you need this system, you probably shouldn't be towing.

I think the electric pump on hydraulic system would not save much fuel. Losing the hydraulic fluid means there is that much less resistance the system has to move, which creates the fuel savings. When the electric motor is not active (you're not steering), there is no additional electrical draw to add resistance to the alternator. I can guarantee you will see electric steering on the Super Duty. The Government and manufacturers are dead set on making cars automated - and being able to steer themselves is a critical piece, obviously. I don't have much interest in a self-driving vehicle. Loss of personal freedom.

 

My '16 has it and I will never use it. Ford made me buy it to subsidize the cost of the aluminum body.

I see no use for it myself. The camera that views the fiver hitch/gooseneck hitch as well as the trailer TPMS would be way more useful