Ford released recently the refreshed Super Duty Series upgraded with the new V-8 gasoline engine, new 10-speed automatic transmission, reworked Power Stroke turbodiesel and some styling and tech improvements. Ford hasn’t revealed the specs of the new and upgraded engines and towing capability of the heavy-duty trucks but while we are waiting to see how these numbers will rate against the recently redesigned Ram and GM heavy-duty trucks, we are also eager to hear details about a long-awaited 2020 Ford F-150 Hybrid.
The F-150 Hybrid has been known for some time it is coming and Ford said also it will build the electrified version at Dearborn plant Michigan. Ford said also recently that hybrid powertrain will provide plenty of low-end torque but will also be possible using it as the power generator for the tools and other stuff on the worksite. What’s more, Ford hints that the hybrid powertrain would be more efficient, as it was expected, but would also provide better towing and power capability than the traditional gasoline or diesel engines.
Ford also spoke further about its electrification plan and announced the full-electric version of its best-selling F-150 in a next few years.
2020 Ford F-150 Hybrid: Powertrain
Ford hasn’t yet revealed the details about the 2020 Ford F-150 Hybrid and what engine and electric components will use. However, the recently introduced Ford Explorer and electrified Lincoln Aviator give us an idea about the possible solution.
It is a sure bet that Ford will adopt similar setup into the new F-150 hybrid but it remains to see what engine exact it will be and what performance, efficiency and towing the model will provide.
The new Explorer hybrid combines a 3.3-liter V-6 engine with an electric motor and 10-speed automatic transmission for the total output of 318 hp. There is also a lithium-ion battery pack under the rear-seat row.
The Lincoln Aviator uses a mightier setup with the 3.0-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6, electric motor and modular 10-speed automatic transmission. The battery is, of course, under the floor. However, this setup makes the Aviator most powerful ever with 450 hp and torque of 600 lb-ft.
Ford will likely put the similar setup in the best-selling F-150 but what engine will use remains the mystery. The current F-150 uses a variety of non-turbo and EcoBoost engines and diesel mill and can mix the 10-speed automatic and electric motor with each of them.
With the new hybrid powertrain, the F-150 will have a lot of low-end moment at disposal which will help while climbing or towing. Ford will also provide the power outlet on the model allowing it to take the role of the generator that customers can use.
2020 Ford F-150 Hybrid: Design
As for the visual identity of the 2020 Ford F-150 Hybrid, the model won’t differ much from the traditional engine-powered versions.
The model will use the same high-tensile steel chassis and aluminum-intensive body as other versions. The difference will be in details including the power outlet, unique grille and trim pieces, badging, wheel design, etc.
Interior, equipment:
Ford will keep the familiar interior design in the F-150 hybrid version and equip it with the latest tech and comfort features. The model will get new info in the instrument panel and center display and make a distinction with some unique trim details.
The model will be available with the premium upholstery and other high-comfort features. Ford will equip the model with the latest electronics as well. The buyers will get responsive Sync infotainment system, navigation, strong sound system, smartphone compatibility and more.
The safety of customers is also the priority for Ford and the light-duty truck will use many active safety systems. There will be a number of cameras and sensors providing surround vision, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane control, blind-spot monitoring, etc.
2020 Ford F-150 Hybrid: Release, Price
Ford hasn’t yet confirmed the launch date of the 2020 Ford F-150 Hybrid but the model should make the debut later in the year. It will be interesting to see mileage of the new hybrid powertrain which is expected in 30+mile range but Ford hinted also a high towing rate of the electrified version.
Closer to the launch in 2020, Ford will also reveal the price of the F-150 hybrid.
