Ford F-Series: A Brief History

The Ford F-Series has been the best-selling truck in the U.S. for 43 consecutive years, as well as the top-selling vehicle overall for a total of 38 years — amazing winning streaks in any arena. In 1977 it became the best-selling truck in America, and in 1982 F-Series was so popular with buyers it was the top-selling vehicle in the U.S. — car or truck. Ford Motor Company continually improves and upgrades the iconic pickup to meet customer demands and competitor challenges. Now in its 13th generation, the F-Series has evolved into a high-tech machine that spans the spectrum from work truck to luxury transportation.

Early Ford Trucks

The third vehicle Henry Ford built was a truck, prior to founding the Ford Motor Company in 1903. The true roots of Ford light trucks extend back to commercial use of the Ford Model T car chassis, before Ford introduced the Model T One-Ton truck chassis in July 1917 (three years after the start of World War I). The Ford Model T Runabout with Pickup Body debuted in 1925 as the first factory-assembled pickup. It sold for $281. In 1928 Ford introduced pickups based on the Model A and Model AA chassis, and continued to build trucks until World War II when all Ford production switched over to support the military effort.

First Generation: 1948–1952

The Ford F-Series first debuted as a 1948 model — the first all-new postwar vehicle line for Ford, with a redesigned cab and a new front end. The new trucks were advertised as “Bonus Built” and offered three new engines, a more comfortable seat and a one-piece windshield. The F-Series was offered in a wide range of cab and chassis configurations, from the half-ton F-1 through the 3-ton F-8.

First Generation: 1948–1952

For the Fabulous Fifties, the 1951 Ford F-Series received a new front end design with new grille, front fenders and hood, and a larger rear window for better visibility. For 1952 Ford introduced a new 215-cubic inch overhead valve inline 6-cylinder engine to replace the previous flathead six.

Second Generation: 1953–1956

Ford celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1953 and also introduced a redesigned F-Series. The F-100 replaced the F-1, and the F-250 replaced the F-2 and F-3 for 1953. The Blue Oval offered an automatic transmission in the F-Series as an option, and 1953 was the last year for the Ford flathead V8 engine first introduced in 1932.

Third Generation: 1957–1960

The 1957 F-Series features a square, more modern design with flush front fenders and the option of either Flareside rear fenders with a narrow bed and traditional fenders or a Styleside design with flush-mounted straight fenders.

Third Generation: 1957–1960

For 1959 Ford offered 4-wheel drive as an option on both the F-100 and the F-250 model lines. Although aftermarket conversions had been previously available, it was the first time that 4WD was optional on Ford’s light-duty trucks. The company added the feature due to increased public interest in recreational off-roading, when the American pickup was in transition from work truck to more personal, everyday use.

Fourth Generation: 1961–1966

The F-Series was redesigned for 1961 with a new cab and front sheet metal. The F-Series Styleside has an integrated cab and box design, but a more traditional Flareside continued to be offered. For 1962, 4-wheel-drive models with the Styleside design offered a separate box and cab, and by mid-year the separate box was available on 2-wheel-drive models as well. The integrated Styleside design was dropped after the 1963 model year.

Fourth Generation: 1961–1966

Ford introduced the Twin I-Beam front suspension with coil springs in 1965 for 2-wheel-drive versions of the F-100 and F-250. The new suspension offered a softer ride and better handling, and Ford advertised the Twin I-Beam as allowing the F-Series to “drive like a car — work like a truck.” Ford estimated that two-thirds of pickup owners used their trucks for recreational and personal use, so it introduced the Camper Special package for F-100 and F-250. In 1965 Ford also offered a factory-built 4-door crew cab F-250 for the first time.

Fifth Generation: 1967–1972

Redesigned for 1967 with an increased focus on interior comfort and luxury, the F-Series added a padded dash, padded sun visors and shoulder-mounted belts. For 1968 federal regulations required side marker lights or reflectors for the front and rear fenders, and two new V8 engines were offered with displacement of either 360 or 390 cubic inches. The Ranger XLT joined the 1970 F-Series lineup as the top trim level.

Sixth Generation: 1973–1979

The sixth iteration of the F-Series rolled out for the 1973 model year with new grilles that incorporated FORD across the top, below the hood. The biggest change of gen six came in 1974 when the first extended-cab SuperCab appeared for F-100 through F-350 models. The SuperCab offered either center-facing jump seats or a front-facing bench seat that could be folded up when not in use. The SuperCab was only available with 2-wheel drive; full-time 4-wheel drive was added as an option for F-100 and F-250.

Sixth Generation: 1973–1979

In 1975 Ford created the F-150 as a heavy-duty version of the F-100 with heavier springs and increased payload capacity; it was only offered with 2-wheel drive. The introduction of the F-150 was not extremely significant at the time, but it would eventually go on to replace the F-100 as Ford’s base-model full-size pickup and best-selling truck model.

Sixth Generation: 1973–1979

In an effort to spruce up the aging sixth-gen truck prior to the release of the next version, Ford added a new grille for 1978 featuring rectangular headlights for the top trim levels. The new luxury Lariat trim was added as well. For 1979 all trim levels included rectangular headlights, and the Ranger Lariat had optional two-tone paint.

Seventh Generation: 1980–1986

Focusing on economy and efficiency, Ford reengineered the F-Series for 1980 by making the overall design more aerodynamic for improved fuel economy, as well as reducing weight via the use of plastics, aluminum and lighter gauge steel where possible. In the middle of the gen-seven truck run, Ford offered its first diesel pickup: a 6.9-liter V8 diesel engine available in the 1983 F-250. In 1984 the F-100 was dropped and the F-150 became the base F-Series truck.

Eighth Generation: 1987–1991

The next-generation F-Series debuted as a 1987 model with new flush headlights that only required the bulb to be replaced rather than the entire headlight unit. The 1987 F-Series is the first truck to feature standard rear anti-lock brakes. The F-150 SuperCab was also offered with 4-wheel drive.

Ninth Generation: 1992–1996

The 1992 redesign continued to improve aerodynamics with smaller headlights that angle back toward the fenders. The front bumper angles back on the ends, and the exterior mirrors are more aerodynamic as well. Attempting to appeal to more sporty buyers, Ford premiered the F-150 Lightning for 1993, powered by a 240-horsepower 5.8-liter V8 with sport suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels and front spoiler. For 1994 a driver’s side airbag and door intrusion beams were added and 7.3-liter diesel engine was offered. The 1995 F-Series passed the Volkswagen Beetle as the world’s best-selling vehicle nameplate.

Tenth Generation: 1997–2003

The 10th generation F-Series features redesigned F-150 and light-duty F-250 models with a new lighter chassis. The SuperCab versions get the industry’s first standard third door for a pickup — a rear-hinged door on the passenger’s side that opens after the passenger’s main door opens, providing access to the rear of the cab. The F-Series was voted “North American Truck of the Year” by a panel of 47 automotive journalists, and was named “Truck of the Year” by Motor Trend magazine. The SuperCab received a second door on the driver’s side for 1999.

Tenth Generation: 1997–2003

The SVT F-150 Lightning returned in 1999 as a regular cab stepside model, powered by a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. Power gets delivered to a limited-slip rear differential through a 4-speed automatic transmission borrowed from the Super Duty. SVT Lightning handling improvements include tuned sport suspension, Bilstein shocks and Goodyear tires.

Tenth Generation: 1997–2003

In 1999 Ford launched a new Super Duty line of medium-duty trucks built on an exclusive new frame. Ford’s decision to split the F-Series by chassis stemmed from a desire to increase payload and towing capacity of the F-250 Super Duty and F-350 Super Duty while improving and refining the best-selling F-150 at its own rate.

Tenth Generation: 1997–2003

The first Harley-Davidson edition premiered as a 2000 model F-150 SuperCab with black monochromatic paint, a Flareside box and a hard tonneau cover. The F-150 H-D edition has 2-wheel drive, powered by a 5.4-liter V8 engine with a sport-tuned exhaust. The truck features lowered suspension, 20-inch 5-spoke cast aluminum wheels and P275/45R20 tires. The striking exterior has a special grille, chrome bars below the doors, a unique front valance with fog lights, stripes and Harley-Davidson badges. Inside, this special edition includes black leather seats, black leather trim, a spun-metal finish for the instrument cluster and Harley-Davidson badging.

Tenth Generation: 1997–2003

The F-150 SuperCrew joined the lineup for the 2001 model year, featuring four forward-hinged doors, more second-row passenger room than the SuperCab and a shorter pickup bed. The 10th generation F-Series saw a lot of significant additions to the line, including the premium King Ranch edition for 2001 and the second Harley-Davidson edition based on the F-150 SuperCrew; the third Harley-Davidson edition was added as a 2003 model. A 6.0-liter Power Stroke diesel joined the Super Duty lineup for 2003 as well.

Eleventh Generation: 2004–2008

Larger than the previous version, the 11th-gen 2004 Ford F-Series has a taller grille and front fenders, and the sides of the bed are two inches taller. The regular cab and SuperCab are both six inches longer than the previous model for more rear-seat passenger room for the SuperCab. The regular cab offered storage room behind the seat and included small rear-hinged doors to access the storage room behind the seat. The SuperCab and the Crew Cab offered an optional power-sliding rear window.

Twelfth Generation: 2009–2014

The redesigned 2009 model features a more aggressive front-end appearance with a bigger, bolder grille similar to the style of the Super Duty. A new fully-boxed frame with hydro-formed and high-strength steel side rails makes the truck lighter but delivers more torsional rigidity for improved durability and comfort. Updates include higher output engines and a new 6-speed automatic transmission. The new top-of-the line Platinum trim increases the level of luxury offered in a pickup with 20-inch chrome wheels, a unique grille design, monotone paint, chrome accents, premium leather upholstery and heated/cooled seats. Regular cab models no longer have rear-hinged access doors.

Twelfth Generation: 2009–2014

A high-performance truck that looks like an off-road desert racer for the street, the F-150 SVT Raptor became part of the F-Series lineup for 2010. The SVT Raptor has an aggressive look derived from 7-inch wider track than a standard F-150, wider fenders, skidplates, hood vents, a raised ride height and a wide black grille with large FORD lettering in the center. Off-road performance equipment includes Fox Racing shocks, upgraded suspension with increased articulation, 17-inch alloy wheels, special 35-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain tires, an electronically locking rear differential and revised stability-control system for off-road use. The exterior features special graphics with sport seats inside. The SVT Raptor was initially powered by a 310-horsepower 5.4-liter V8 engine; a 400-horsepower 6.2-liter powerplant was added the following year.

Thirteenth Generation: 2015–2020

The current-generation Ford F-150 debuted as a 2015 model and is Ford’s most technologically developed F-Series pickup to date. Extensive aluminum use allowed Ford engineers to drop 700 pounds of weight from the truck when compared to the previous model. The latest look is both aggressive and refined, and underneath the new fully-boxed frame uses more high-strength steel to make it both stronger and lighter. Smart technology includes an available 360-degree camera view, available trailer-hitch-assist rear camera view, available remote tailgate with hands-free opening and available next-generation tailgate step. The 2015 F-150 debuted a new turbocharged 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 with standard Auto Start-Stop — a lightweight, compact design that makes the same power as a midrange V8 engine.

Thirteenth Generation: 2015–2020

For 2017 the F-150 added a new second-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine combined with an all-new 10-speed automatic transmission. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost includes twin port and direct injection, a redesigned turbocharger with electronic wastegate and new valvetrain to produce 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. For 2018 the F-150 receives exterior design updates throughout the model lineup including new grilles, bumpers, lighting, tailgates, exterior trim and wheels. Interiors are updated for XLT Sport, XLT Special Edition, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum and Limited with new colors and materials. The standard engine is upgraded to a new 3.3-liter normally-aspirated V6 with port and direct-injection technology producing 290 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque combined with an electronic 6-speed automatic transmission. And for the first time ever, the 2018 F-150 Power Stroke diesel is added, powered by an all-new 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 diesel engine that produces 250 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque with peak torque at just 1750 rpm.

Thirteenth Generation: 2015–2020

The F-150 Raptor also returned for 2017, powered by a new high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque combined with a 10-speed automatic. Raptor also features a new clutch-based torque-on-demand transfer case that can automatically distribute torque between the front and rear axles, but also includes a mechanical lock for both 4-wheel-high and 4-wheel-low ranges. The wide-body Raptor has a 6-inch wider track, 2 inches more ground clearance and is 500 pounds lighter than the previous model. The new Raptor also added upgraded FOX shocks, BF Goodrich KO2 tires and available 17-inch forged alloy bead-lock capable wheels.

Thirteenth Generation: 2015–2020

Ford redesigned the F-Series Super Duty for 2017 — the first time the Super Duty has been significantly redesigned since the heavy-duty lineup was added in 1999. The Super Duty received a new exterior look, a completely updated interior and a number of new features designed around comfort, cargo hauling and towing just about any size trailer. But many of the updates are hidden from view, such as the high-strength aluminum alloy body and box, powerful engine lineup and high-strength steel frame. The new frame is 24 times stiffer than the previous version, and liberal use of aluminum has lowered the truck’s overall weight, giving the Super Duty increased hauling and towing capabilities.

Thirteenth Generation: 2015–2020

For the 2018 model year, Ford bolstered its law enforcement offerings with the F-150 Police Responder, which appeals to departments needing an all-terrain enforcement vehicle with both on-road and off-road capability. Based on the F-150 FX4 off-road package, the F-150 Police Responder is powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine producing 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, combined with Ford’s SelectShift 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. Additional features include upgraded brakes, a larger front stabilizer bar, all-terrain tires and 18-inch alloy wheels. The F-150 Police Responder features the SuperCrew body for maximum interior room ; other features include a column shifter, front center-seat delete, heavy-duty cloth front seats, vinyl rear seating and heavy-duty vinyl floor covering.

Thirteenth Generation: 2015–2020

For 2019 the F-150 Raptor improved off-road performance with Smarter Shocks, new Trail Control and available Recaro sport seats. The electronically controlled FOX 3.0 Internal Bypass shocks with Live Valve technology adjust to the terrain in real time to maximize handling, comfort, and help prevent bottoming. The shocks improve high-speed off-road capability but also deliver smooth on-road performance. The new Trail Control system can be activated at speeds from 1 mph up to 20 mph to improve low-speed off-road performance and help drivers navigate rugged terrain. Trail Control automatically adjusts power and braking to each individual wheel to allow the driver to focus on steering. All-new Recaro sport seats provide additional support with aggressive bolsters for the seatbacks and lower cushions, as well as blue Alcantara inserts and accent stitching inspired by the Light Speed-colored interior of the Ford GT.

Thirteenth Generation: 2015–2020

Also new for 2019, the F-150 Limited received the High-Output 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful light-duty pickup on the road. A new dual exhaust system features exhaust tips integrated into the rear bumper cutouts. Inside, the F-150 Limited features a leather-topped instrument panel and door panels, ash swirl wood trim, aluminum wrapped bezels and a Miko suede headliner. Camel Back two-tone leather is new, and multicontour front seats feature Active Motion lumbar support and massage. Also offered are heated and ventilated captain’s chairs, a heated steering wheel, a standard 360-degree camera system, optional Pro Trailer Backup Assist and 4G LTE Wi-Fi access.

Thirteenth Generation: 2015–2020

For 2020 the Super Duty lineup — F-250, F-350 and F-450 — receives fresh styling, more capability, new features and an all-new off-road Tremor package. The 2020 Super Duty gets a new look front and back: more powerful LED headlights, a new grille, updated bumpers, a new air dam, and a new tailgate look with updated taillights. Ford also upgrades the 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 that produces 475 horsepower and a class-leading 1,050 lb-ft of torque at a mere 1600 rpm. With the right configuration, the Super Duty F-450 can tow up to 37,000 pounds — almost five times its own weight — and is also best in class for heavy-duty trucks. A diesel-powered F-350 with dual-rear wheels can haul up to 7,850 pounds — also the top of the heavy-duty class. Ford also offers the Super Duty with an all-new 7.3-liter gasoline V8 engine with 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque; it can tow as much as 21,200 pounds.

Thirteenth Generation: 2015–2020

For 2020 the new off-road Tremor package is offered for F-250 Super Duty and F-350 Super Duty on XLT, Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum trim levels, combined with either the 7.3-liter V8 or 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel. Trucks equipped with the Tremor package get a 2.0-inch front-end lift, a shorter air dam, progressive-rate springs, a retuned rear stabilizer bar, custom 1.7-inch piston twin-tube dampers and 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac off-road tires mounted on unique 18-inch matte-finish black wheels. Tremor also gets a locking rear differential, a Dana limited-slip front differential, off-road running boards and skidplates. With these additions, the Super Duty Tremor has 10.8-inches of ground clearance.

Fourteenth Generation: 2021

The all-new 2021 Ford F-150 arrives fall 2020 with bold new styling, an updated interior, a new hybrid powertrain and a range of innovative and versatile new features. Styling changes include an updated LED headlight design and new signature LED running lights, a new power dome hood and wraparound bumpers. More than these obvious changes, Ford says every exterior panel has been redesigned for the new model year. Under that fresh exterior still lives the fully boxed high-strength steel frame that continues to support the industry-first high-strength aluminum alloy body.

F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid

The new powertrain option for the 2021 Ford F-150 is a 3.5-liter PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 — the first hybrid for the F-150. Teaming the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with a 35-kw electric motor integrated into the 10-speed transmission will deliver what Ford expects to be the most torque and horsepower of any light-duty full-size pickup. The liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries get stored beneath the truck, so no compromises need to be made to cargo or passenger compartments. Complete specs will be released closer to the on-sale date; however, Ford is saying that this hybrid powertrain will deliver up to 700 miles of range on a single tank of fuel; the hybrid also has a tow rating of at least 12,000 pounds.

Innovative Features

Ford has gone to great lengths to make the new F-150 more useful to its owners. A new Interior Work Surface lets the driver fold the gearshift into the center console with the push of a button, and then unfold a hard surface that covers the center console, making it an ideal space for a laptop or even a meal. After that meal, the available Max Recline Seats can recline to almost 180 degrees, creating a comfortable way to catch a few moments of shuteye. The 2021 F-150 has a long list of other great features, ranging from an onboard generator to a tailgate workbench to the latest in driver assist features.

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