The 2018 Ford F-150 was announced earlier this year, and it offers some new and interesting tech and features. Here’s a look at five of the most attention-grabbing features on the new truck.
Under the Hood
The whole engine range is interesting, but the biggest news is that Ford is now offering a diesel in the F-150 for the first time. The all-new 3.0-liter PowerStroke turbodiesel V-6 will join the new standard 3.3-liter V-6 that replaces last year’s 3.5 and is expected to make similar power (282 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque), a 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine and a naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V-8. A 10-speed automatic transmission will mate to each engine, and start/stop will be standard across the board. While not all power numbers have been finalized yet, the addition of a torquey diesel engine will be helpful in both off-road and towing situations.
360-Degree Camera
The availability of a 360-degree camera will help in parking situations as well as when hooking up a trailer, but it could also come in handing when off-roading in slow-speed situations (particularly when backing up), as it will help drivers see flora and fauna they may not be otherwise able to.
Blind-Spot Monitoring with Trailer-Tow
For those who use their rigs for trailering, the blind-spot monitoring system will now be able to detect blind spots created by trailers that are up to 33 feet long. While this may be more of an on-road feature, it will come handy for those who use their trucks to tow off-road craft such as ATVs. After all, one must get to and from the off-road trail safely.
Connectivity Everywhere
It’s not the first vehicle on the market to offer an in-car 4G LTE wireless hotspot – it’s just the latest. Up to 10 mobile devices can be connected, meaning you’ll never be out of touch while on the trail again. Other available tech includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Tough Framework
The new F-150 will use a fully boxed ladder frame made of high-strength steel and a body of high-strength “military grade” aluminum. According to Ford, this will allow the truck to offer more capability – especially when it comes to payload and towing – while saving weight and not sacrificing strength. That last bit should be of special note to off-roaders, as lighter weight and a stronger body/frame are useful attributes on the trail.
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