Ford reveals next-gen F-150 at Detroit auto show
Competitor to GM’S new pickup trucks
DETROIT, MICH. — The truck wars heated up in Detroit as Ford countered GM’s recently revealed pickups with a concept model expected to herald its next-generation F-150.
The Atlas concept has styling and features you’ll probably see in Ford’s 2015 model, including the evolution of its tailgate step, which can now be extended to act as a cargo cradle for extra long items such as lumber or ladders.
Attention has been paid to improving aerodynamics to help reduce fuel consumption. The enhancements include active grille shutters and active wheel shutters, which deploy at highway speeds to reduce drag.
The truck’s front spoiler also drops down at speed to limit airflow under the truck, but retracts at lower speeds to improve ground clearance. The running boards are also power assisted, dropping down for occupant entry and exit, then tucking away once the truck gets moving.
The Atlas is powered by a next-generation engine from Ford’s EcoBoost lineup, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with an auto stop-start system. The concept, stretched over a 3,810-mm wheelbase, rides on LT325/50R22 all-terrain tires and 22-inch alloy wheels.
Ford is also stepping up its commercial vehicle lineup, introducing a new version of its popular Transit Connect compact van with 907-kilogram towing capacity and 726-kg payload. A choice of either a 1.6-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder or a 2.5L four will be offered.
Commercial vehicles account for 29 per cent of all global sales and that number continues to grow. In North America, Ford dominates the segment with 47 per cent of the market. So, in addition to its new compact van, the company has also introduced a new large Transit van. It will be offered with a choice of two wheelbases, three lengths and three heights. It will also be available in a cab-only configuration.