History of the Ford F-150 Truck
The history of the F-150 goes way back. The best selling pickup truck in the United States and has been since 1977. Additionally the F-150 has gone through an evolution, improved and modified for the consumer as the years rolled on. Let us take you on a journey of this evolution!
In 1917, Ford initiated a pivotal moment with the launch of its Model T truck. Melding the cab of the Model T with a flatbed. This marked the genesis of Ford’s first factory-assembled pickup truck. Following this breakthrough, the transition from the Model T to the F-Series began with the introduction of the 1935 Ford Model 50 Pickup, which boasted the iconic Ford flathead V-8 engine. Production of this model was briefly halted by World War II.
First Generation
In 1948, Ford officially unveiled the F-series, offering a variety of eight weight ratings and several body styles. Including pickup, panel truck, cab-over engine (COE), conventional truck, and school bus chassis.
Second Generation
For the 1953 model update, Ford expanded the naming system, which endures to this day. For example, the half-ton F-1 became the F-100, while the F-2 and F-3 were combined into the 3/4-ton F-250, and the F-4 transformed into the one-ton F-350. Therefore, this generation saw increased dimensions, enhanced engines, and chassis updates.
Third Generation
Between 1957 and 1960, Ford introduced design improvements, integrating front fenders into the body and a new style side bed. In addition, this generation also marked the introduction of the first four-wheel-drive option.
Fourth Generation
In 1961, Ford undertook a significant style transformation for the F-Series, lowering and lengthening the truck’s body. Additionally, this era also introduced the concept of a factory-built four-door crew cab in 1965, initially available in F-250 trim as a special order.
Fifth Generation
The fifth-generation F-series, introduced in 1967, shared a platform with the 1965 revision of the fourth generation. It featured “FORD” spelled out in block letters on the hood, a grille with integrated headlamps, and an improved cab design with nearly four extra inches of shoulder room.
Sixth Generation
The sixth generation of F-Series emerged in 1973. In 1975, the F-150 made its debut, ultimately becoming more popular than the F-100 while the latter remained in production until 1983.
Seventh Generation
The seventh-generation F-Series made its entrance in 1980, signifying the first comprehensive redesign of the model line since 1965. This generation featured an entirely new chassis and a revamped body, distinguished by straighter lines to enhance aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.
Eighth Generation
In 1987, the interior underwent a complete overhaul, providing a fresh new look and feel. In fact, it was also the year when the five-speed manual transmission was introduced. Additionally, electronic fuel injection enhanced the power and efficiency of the engines during this era.
Ninth Generation
The ninth-generation F-Series debuted in 1992, marking the time when these trucks started to assume the familiar form they possess today. To explain, in 1995, the F-Series overtook the Volkswagen Beetle as the world’s best-selling vehicle, though the Beetle retained its title for passenger cars.
Tenth Generation
For the 1997 model year, Ford made a significant alteration to the F-Series lineup, dividing it into two vehicle families—one focused on personal use (the new F-150) and the other tailored for work (the F-250 and F-350).
Eleventh Generation
In 2004, the F-150 underwent a redesign, introducing larger regular and extended cab variations with increased storage and passenger space. Furthermore, this redesign catered to the rising demand for pickups as primary vehicles, resulting in record-breaking annual sales of 939,511 F-Series units.
Twelfth Generation
The twelfth-generation F-150, introduced in 2009, brought updates to the engines across the board. And in 2011, Ford unveiled the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6.
Thirteenth Generation
Next, the thirteenth-generation Ford F-Series arrived in 2015. featuring a groundbreaking shift to aluminum for most body components, reducing weight and enhancing resistance to corrosion.
Fourteenth Generation
Lastly, in 2021, the latest update was unveiled, bearing a striking resemblance to the thirteenth generation. To illustrate, the 2021 F-150 underwent a redesign with 92% of its parts updated, retaining only its cab and pickup box structure. Additionally, this generation offered five engine options. Including the 5.0-liter V-8 and four V-6s with two twin-turbo engines at 2.7 and 3.5 liters, a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel, and a naturally aspirated 3.3-liter. In conclusion, the fourteenth generation is tougher and more intelligent than ever. Boasting pro power onboard, max reclining seats, and an entirely new interior.
To see our full line-up of F-Series trucks visit us at Kalispell Ford.
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