Hi all, I recently made the switch from a Z71 Tahoe to a 2011 F-150 Lariat SCREW. I have seen/heard comments about the CAFE standards and the implications CAFE will have for trucks under 8,500 lbs (ala F150). Has anyone heard what FoMoCo will be changing to the body/engine to meet the MPG req's in the future? My assumption is that they will have to make it more lightweight, so maybe a magnesium frame?? I'm glad I bought my truck when I did if what I am hearing really is true. Any and all feedback is much appreciated.

 

I would not worry in the slightest about the new trucks and CAFE requirements. We had 30 MPG rated half ton trucks 30 years ago after much of the same gnashing of teeth.

It can and will happen again. Truck makers want to sell trucks, so they will design to the new standards after much complaing that it cannot be done, just like they did 30 years ago.

People will buy the new trucks, after loosing many sleepness nights. People still want to buy new trucks.

Basicly after all of the screaming and shouting it will happen and guess what, we as a nation will still drive to work, still get our food, still vacation and tow our trailers just like we did 30 years ago.... and we as a country might just send less money overseas to those who might not have the highest requard of us.

My thoughts! David

 

I think the biggest change I've heard of for the Next Generation F-150 ''Set for around 2014 to 2015'' is the use of lighter materials such as the Magnisam Frame and Aluminum body panels. From what I have heard Ford is speculating that using a Magnisum frame and Aluminum body panels they can reduce the weight of the F-150 by as much as 800lbs if need be. I don't know about any change's to the engines. I suspect that since the engines are all new for 2011 they will stay the same in the next generation model, though they might see a few updates and changes.

Everything is just speculation at this point. We probably won't have any concrete evidence of how the next gen model will be built for a few years at least.

 

A Magnesium frame would be a HUGE mistake. It corrodes way faster than steel, regardless of the weight savings benefit. The coastal and northern states would have frame replacement recalls for there F150's.