The Environmentally Conscious Future of Ford Trucks (photos)
Is there a green future in store for Ford?
1. A greener future at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show
Ford is known for their robust, workmanlike vehicles. Although they're far from the first name one thinks of when it comes to green options, Ford appears to be interested in diversifying their portfolio with a number of hybrid and fuel-flexible vehicles. However, Ford has unveiled a major initiative to hybridize and electrify their current truck brands. Although it'll still be a few years before we see these trends in action on the street, it speaks volumes of what to expect for the future.
2. There's a hybrid F-150 on the horizon
Everyone's favorite pickup truck, the F-150, remains the most exciting truck in Ford's future. Given that the F-150 just celebrated its 40th anniversary (!!!) it testifies to Ford's enduring quality that they're still looking for a way to reinvent such trusty mainstays. The plug-in hybrid is slated to work as a mobile power generator. This feature will be implemented due to the F-150's common use at work sites. Considering most trade professionals value function over fancy, the hybrid's double-role as a power source will hopefully make it more appetizing in this respect. In addition, if the hybrid still doesn't sound appealing to a prospective buyer, the F-150 will also be available with a diesel engine.
3. The goal of electrification by 2020
Ford have outlined 2020 as the year we'll likely see their green initiatives come into effect. The hybrid F-150 won't be the only great thing to look for in this respect from Ford either. a hybridized Mustang is also slated for a similar date. While market trends and technology will have undoubtedly changed by then, it's virtually guaranteed that efficient model versions will be more a la mode than ever.
4. Current truck profits can absorb the green tech cost
Ford's green-spirited projections are well-considered. They understand the major cost involved in any environmental initiative. Luckily, with 750,000 F-150 trucks sold last year alone, they will be able to absorb the hefty tab into their current profits without as much of the risk. The hybrid technology involved is still very costly, but it's encouraging to see that Ford has got their bases covered.
5. Ford's green initiatives will have some competition
Ford may be the biggest name in pickup trucks, but they've never had a monopoly on it. This will be especially true in the green market they're less familiar with. The 2020 EVs and hybrid Fords won't be the only electric trucks around. Most notably, Elon Musk's Tesla corporation has already unveiled plans to create a full EV pickup looking to compete with current gas engine F-Series models. Ford will have to factor in the innovations of their competition for their hybrid trucks to succeed. Their brand reputation won't count for as much in this new territory.
6. Where Ford goes, others will follow
Ford trucks have garnered themselves a stalwart reputation as trendsetters. When you stop to make a count of how many pickup trucks have attempted to emulate the F-Series, it's pretty obvious that the word of Ford is the law for many truck designers. If Ford proves they can create a profitable deal with green-focused trucks, other brands like Dodge and Chevy will be sure to take the hint. When it comes to this sort of environmental innovation, all it takes is one standout success for others to start following behind. We're hoping that Ford's latest initiative proves as big of a success as it can be. At the end of the day, we'll all have cleaner air to breathe as a result.
For help with keeping your truck running right, check out the how-to section of Ford-Trucks.com