Dearborn-based Ford Motor Co. today introduced its all-new 2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty truck, featuring a steel frame and seven cameras to see more angles, improve monitoring conditions around the truck, and make towing easier.
The truck’s frame is made up of more than 95 percent steel, which Ford engineers say is 24 times stiffer than the previous frame. The body uses aluminum alloy, which is more dent- and ding-resistant than the outgoing steel body. It also prevents red rust corrosion.
In addition, the steel and aluminum alloy help to reduce the vehicle’s weight by up to 350 pounds.
“As we remove weight, we’re making the Super Duty more productive by giving our customers better towing and payload capability,” says Craig Schmatz, chief engineer of the Super Duty truck. “We’re backing up improved capability with a stronger gasoline and diesel Super Duty engine lineup.”
Schmatz says a center, high-mounted stop lamp camera will offer visibility into the cargo box, allowing for easier hook-up of gooseneck (a hook that uses a ball and coupler) towing and fifth-wheel towing. A trailer camera is also available to improve rear visibility, especially when backing up.
Driver assist technologies include Sync 3, Ford’s communications and entertainment system, a blind spot information system with trailer tow, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control and collision warning.
All three cabs — Regular Cab, Super Cab, and Crew Cab — are longer, have a dual compartment glove box, and flat second-row floors.
There are five models in the Super Duty lineup — XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum. The vehicles, set to go on sale late next year, will most likely be on display at the North American International Auto Show in January at Cobo Center in downtown Detroit.
