TRUCKS & TRANSPORTATION
HYBRID F-15O TO ELECTRIFY THE CONSTRUCTION JOBSITE
Onboard generator adds power to redesigned light truck for 2021 model year
By Lee Toop, Editor
E
lectrification has been brought to the fore in the newly redesigned Ford F-150, with the availability of a hybrid option tied in to an integrated power generator. The newest version of the venerable light truck, to be available in fall 2020, is targeting towing, payload, torque and horsepower as well as offering productivity features, the company says. The brand-new 3.5-litre PowerBoost full-hybrid V6 powertrain aims to deliver the most torque and horsepower of any light-duty full-size pickup, Ford states. PowerBoost adds instant electric torque to the 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6. Ford said it is targeting an EPA-estimated range of approximately 700 miles (1,126 km) on a single tank of gas, while delivering at least 12,000 pounds (5,443 kg) of maximum towing. The system ties in the EcoBoost engine to the 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission and adds a 34-kW (47 hp) electric motor integrated in the transmission as well as software calibrated specially for truck use, including drive modes like tow/haul mode to help customers better manage towing heavy trailers. Regenerative braking energy capture charges a 1.5-kWh lithium-ion battery packaged under the truck, saving interior and bed space for hauling capacity. PowerBoost is one of six engine options that will be available on the new truck. Ford says the F-150 will have the 3.3-litre V6, twin-turbocharged 2.7-litre and 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6, 5.0-litre V8, and the 3.0-litre Power Stroke V6 diesel. Each is partnered with the 10-speed automatic transmission.
Full exterior redesign tops strongest F-150 ever
Looks-wise, the 2021 F-150 has a completely new look, with every body panel redesigned, according to Ford. Updated headlamp, a new power dome hood, wraparound bumpers and higher front fenders, among other things, combine to give the truck a more powerful stance both on and off road. Eleven grille options are available across the model lineup, along with multiple tailgate options. Ford is supporting work with additions including 18
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new cleats mounted to the sides of the tailgate, which act as tie-down locations for extra-long items in the bed. Clamp pockets built into the tailgate of every truck allow customers to hold down materials for precision work, and an available flat tailgate work surface provides integrated rulers, a mobile device holder, cupholder and pencil holder.
Onboard generator offers power for jobsites
The available Pro Power Onboard system provides 2 kW output on optional gas engines, while the PowerBoost-equipped F-150 features 2.4 kW standard and an optional 7.2 kW of output. The truck features in-cabin outlets as well as up to four cargo bed mounted 120-volt 20-amp outlets, with a 240-volt 30amp outlet on the 7.2-kW version. Depending on the version, Pro Power Onboard
can power a range of tools on the jobsite. The 2 kW base system can power a circular saw, portable speakers and battery charger together, for example, while the 2.4 kW unit can power a masonry crew’s jackhammer and compact concrete mixer. The 7.2 kW version can power an entire mobile metal shop, including a plasma cutter, TiG welder, chop saw, air compressor, angle grinder and work light. The 2021 F-150 features an entirely redesigned interior with the most connectivity options ever, Ford states, as well as the ability to include work spaces in the cab, lie-flat reclining seats and more. An all-new 12-inch centre screen is standard in XLT high series and above that allows customers to split the screen and control multiple functions simultaneously. Owners can use the screen to manage their navigation, music or truck features or review the digit-
Pro Power Online is an onboard generator that can power many needs on jobsites.
