Ford's 2015 F-150 Embarks on a 38-City Test Drive Tour

At the first media drive for the all-new 2015 Ford F-150, Ford took over a huge parking lot and set up a four-station educational and experiential event in which auto journalists could learn about the frame and understructure of the new truck, do some comparison test drives on an eighth-mile track and autocross, find out about the new bed tech and, finally, get into the truck and be led through all the new information screens and technology controls.

Each of the stations gave us a pretty clear idea that there is a lot to learn about this new truck; the stations also allowed us to see how it competes with other pickup trucks in the segment. From the inception of the 2015 F-150, Ford knew it was going to have to invest in a significant educational program to convince and show people — media and customers alike — what the pickup's revolutionary materials and powertrains could do. That's when the idea of a 38-city traveling tour was born, pretty much duplicating the program the media experienced at the first-drive event.

With dates starting Oct. 11 and running through Dec. 17, the tour will educate potential buyers and current Ford customers about the truck and let them get behind the wheel to experience it all. To participate, people must sign up in advance at F150drive.com and answer a few questions. All participants will be eligible to win a new F-150. We've been told that competitive trucks will be available (Ram 1500 Hemi, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3-liter, Toyota Tundra 5.7-liter and a few V-6s as well). Check out the chart below to find the tour stop nearest you and sign up today.

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Ford Eyes Return to Small Pickup Segmant

At the recent launch of the all-important 2015 Ford F-150, longtime Ford marketing leader Dave Scott told James Healey of USA Today that Ford was giving serious consideration to the idea that the U.S. market could support a smaller entry-level pickup. But it would have to meet some specific criteria.

 

According to USA Today, Scott noted that it would likely have to be a compact pickup, smaller in size than the recently debuted full-frame Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon midsize pickups, and may even be better served on a unibody platform. In order to succeed, the truck would also have to offer as much as 25 percent better fuel economy than the full-size pickups and cost $5,000 to $6,000 less than a base-model half-ton.

According to USA Today, Scott did note that Ford has many vehicles that could potentially work but did not name them, although he did say that the global Ford Ranger — a popular midsize pickup around the world — would not be a good choice because it sits too close in size and capability to the current half-ton product.

From our standpoint, and from the description Scott provided, it looks like Ford is considering a modified version based off the current Transit Connect or Transit, or possibly both. Either could provide a solid, capable unibody platform for a new-style Ranchero or F-100 pickup truck. And it wouldn't surprise us if we saw something (maybe a concept at one of next year's auto shows?) not long after dealerships have gotten comfortable with the all-new 2015 F-150. We have no doubt that if the response to the GM midsize pickups and the redesigned 2014 Toyota Tacoma (as well as the new Honda Ridgeline coming in 2016) brings more people into the smaller truck segment, Ford will be ready to pull the trigger on a new type of downsized pickup.

by Mark Williams
pickuptrucks.com
Illustration by Mark Stehrenberger

2015 Ford F-150 Pete Reyes Interview

An interview with Ford Chief Engineer Pete Reyes on the 2015 Ford F-150 

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All-New Ford F-150: Toughest, Smartest, Most Capable F-150 Ever Delivers Industry-Leading Towing, Payload Performance

•     Dealers and consumers across the United States start testing the all-new 2015 Ford F-150 ahead of its arrival in dealerships later this year
•     All-new F-150 delivers industry’s best towing and payload capability among full-size pickups; F-150 can tow 12,200 pounds and haul 3,300 pounds
•     Regardless of model configuration or engine choice, every truck customer benefits from up to 700 pounds of weight savings with the 2015 F-150; F-150 can tow up to 1,100 more pounds, haul up to 530 more pounds and is projected to deliver fuel economy ratings in the range of at least 5 percent and as much as 20 percent higher gas mileage than today’s truck, depending on the model

The 2015 Ford F-150 – the reinvention of America’s favorite pickup – is winning early praise as it sets the standard for the future of tough, thanks to the all-new vehicle’s impressive combination of power, capability and efficiency.

This month, the first of 10,000 dealer sales consultants began test driving the new truck in 26 cities nationwide. Performance driving and competitive towing exercises are underscoring the industry’s best towing and payload capability among full-size pickups – the all-new F-150 can tow 12,200 pounds and haul 3,300 pounds.

Overall, the 2015 F-150 is the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 ever. Regardless of model configuration or engine choice, every truck customer benefits from up to 700 pounds of weight savings the new truck delivers. The all-new F-150 can tow up to 1,100 more pounds, haul up to 530 more pounds and is projected to have fuel economy ratings in the range of at least 5 percent and as much as 20 percent better gas mileage than today’s truck, depending on the model. (Specific gas mileage numbers for the entire lineup will be certified by the U.S. EPA, likely in November, and announced at that time.)

“Once again, Ford F-150 establishes new standards in durability, capability, technology and efficiency,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president of The Americas. “We keep raising the bar on America’s favorite truck to help F-150 owners be more productive 24/7 – whether for work or weekend fun.”

Early test drives offered

Through December, dealer sales consultants will put the all-new F-150 through its paces in 26 cities, testing the truck’s speed and towing capability while experiencing its smart new features.

These early drives are meant to help sales professionals understand the truck’s strengths from the best perspective – the driver’s seat.

Consumers also can test drive the all-new F-150 ahead of the truck’s arrival in dealer showrooms. From Oct. 11 to Dec. 21, consumers in 38 U.S. cities can participate in up to 20,000 test drives of the new truck nationwide, with product experts along for the ride explaining smart new innovations and answering questions.

Consumers can preregister for events at F150drive.com. If no stops are yet planned near a customer’s location, he or she will be notified of future tour visits. Walk-up participation is encouraged.

Punishing testing proves toughest F-150 ever

The new truck’s improved performance is enabled by reducing up to 700 pounds of weight through the use of high-strength steel in the frame and high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy in the body.

Before the new F-150 goes on sale, it will have been torture-tested for more than 10 million miles in a range of temperatures and terrain – in labs, at Ford proving grounds, in the hands of some of the most demanding truck customers and even in the grueling Baja 1000 off-road race.

New technologies mean smartest F-150 ever

Several groundbreaking features debut in the all-new F-150, including 11 available class-exclusives:

•     360-degree camera view uses exterior cameras to create a bird’s-eye view of the truck to help drivers park, maneuver in tight spots, and navigate narrow roads and trails
•     Integrated loading ramps enable easy loading of ATVs, motorcycles and mowers
•     BoxLink combines metal brackets and custom cleats to secure a variety of accessories in the cargo box – from ramps to storage bins to bed dividers
•     LED headlamps; LED taillamps provide excellent nighttime visibility
•     Trailer hitch assist adds a new rearview camera feature that incorporates a dynamic line based on steering wheel angle in the display to help customers line up their truck and trailer with no spotter or need to exit the vehicle
•     Remote tailgate allows for tailgate to be locked, unlocked and released with the key fob

Four engine choices ensure most capable F-150 ever

The all-new F-150 lineup includes four engine options for more power, and to meet most any customer need:

•     2.7-liter EcoBoost® V6 with standard Auto Start-Stop: New engine design produces 325 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2.7-liter EcoBoost 4x2 has a maximum payload rating of 2,250 pounds and maximum tow rating of 8,500 pounds – ideal for meeting mid-range capability requirements and the needs of more than 90 percent of light-duty truck customers
•     3.5-liter EcoBoost: This twin-turbo EcoBoost engine delivers V8-like 420 lb.-ft. of torque and 365 horsepower to enable towing of up to 12,200 pounds – more than enough to handle a fully loaded, three-horse trailer or large boat. It has earned an industry-leading maximum payload rating of 3,180 pounds
•     5.0-liter V8 with twin independent variable camshaft timing: Improved power and efficiency, delivering 385 horsepower and 387 lb.-ft. of torque. Smart engineering enhancements such as a new long-runner intake manifold, revised intake cam duration and new pulse-separated exhaust manifolds help raise towing capability by 1,100 pounds to a maximum 11,100 pounds, and payload to 3,300 pounds
•     3.5-liter V6 with twin independent variable camshaft timing: This engine produces 283 horsepower and 255 lb.-ft. of torque. It has a maximum payload of 1,910 pounds and maximum tow rating of 7,600 pounds – unsurpassed for standard V6 light-duty pickup trucks

New F-150 goes on sale later this year

When it arrives in showrooms late this year, the all-new Ford F-150 will continue offering the broadest selection of trim levels in the full-size pickup segment. Five primary trims are available, and include XL, XLT, Lariat, Platinum and King Ranch. Chrome appearance packages are available with XL, XLT, Lariat and King Ranch. Monochromatic sport appearance packages are available with XL, XLT and Lariat.

The FX4 off-road package can be added to most four-wheel-drive models, improving trail capability with an electronic locking rear axle, skid plates and off-road-tuned shocks.

F-150 is part of the Ford F-Series truck lineup, America’s best-selling truck for 37 consecutive years and best-selling vehicle for 32 years.

F-150 continues to be manufactured at Dearborn Truck Plant in Dearborn, Michigan, and Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Missouri.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 186,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit corporate.ford.com

Consumer Test Drives of All-New Ford F-150 About to Begin in 38 Markets Across the United States

•     Soon, consumers can test drive the all-new 2015 Ford F-150 ahead of the truck’s availability in dealer showrooms
•     Tour visits 38 markets across the United States, Oct. 13 through Dec. 21
•     Consumers can register and schedule their test drive at F150drive.com

Consumers wanting to drive the future of trucks can get behind the wheel of the 2015 Ford F-150 – the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 ever – in 38 markets across the United States beginning Oct. 13.

The tour will make stops in 38 major markets and run through Dec. 21. Truck customers can drive the all-new model on a short route with product experts along for the ride to explain the new innovations and answer questions.


Consumers can register and schedule their test drive at F150drive.com. Walk-up participation is encouraged.


“The new F-150 is a game changer,” said Doug Scott, Ford Truck group marketing manager. “Truck customers are going to learn about and experience the F-150’s new features and improved performance from the best place possible – the driver’s seat.”


Tour vehicles will feature the all-new 2.7-liter EcoBoost® V6 that produces 325 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft. of torque and includes Auto Start-Stop designed to enhance fuel economy in stop-and-go driving. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost that produces 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque will be available to test drive as well.


Participants registered online or in attendance at the event can enter for a chance to win an all-new 2015 Ford F-150.*


The tour also will feature interactive displays to help consumers gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of the all-new F-150, including its high-strength steel frame construction and high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body panels.

Drive events will take place in the parking lots of large retailers and office parks. Details can be found on F150drive.com.


“This is the most anticipated truck in Ford history,” said Scott. “Consumers will see for themselves how Ford reinvented the pickup, and experience how the all-new F-150 is a more capable and efficient tool that can make their daily lives easier and more productive.”


Consumers can visit F150drive.com to find the tour stop nearest them. Here is a list of tour stops by route:

Week  of	West	West  Central	East Central	East
Oct 20	Seattle	Minneapolis	Buffalo, NY	Boston
Oct. 20	Portland, Ore.	Chicago	Cleveland	New York
Oct. 27	Sacramento, Calif.	St. Louis	Pittsburgh	Philadelphia
Nov. 3	San Francisco	Kansas City, Kan.	Columbus, Ohio	Washington, D.C.
			Indianapolis
Nov. 10	Salt Lake City	Tulsa, Okla.	Nashville, Tenn.	Raleigh, N.C.
Nov. 17	Denver	Oklahoma City, Okla.	Little Rock, Ark.	Atlanta
Dec. 1	Phoenix	Dallas	Baton Rouge, La.	Orlando, Fla.
Dec. 8	Riverside, Calif.	Austin, Texas	New Orleans	Tampa, Fla.
Dec. 15	Los Angeles	San Antonio	Houston	Miami

*No purchase necessary. Open to licensed drivers 18 and over. Ends Dec. 31, 2014. Complete rules available at F150drive.com.

How To Train a Snow & Ice Removal Rookie

 
With such a relentless, record breaking winter we experienced last season, you may have added or are considering adding a few new members to your snow removal team. Some may be experienced, snow and ice removal professionals, with many winters under their belt. However, if you’ve hired someone new to the industry, you will want to train your new team member on snow plowing best practices. This will not only help them when the first storm hits but will also help to establish your performance expectations levels and safety standards.

The Accredited Snow Contractors Association’s 2014 American National Standard highlights snow plowing basics that could be beneficial for your new hire to know*. Share these tips and help them put the best plow forward.

Safety Considerations During Operation

- Always adhere to local vehicular operational laws and ordinances;

- Adhere to safe plowing speeds to maintain control of the vehicle’s operation;

- Avoid pedestrians and give them the “right of way” at all times;

- Do not pile the snow in a manner that impedes the view down any street.


Plowing Practices

- Endeavor to always be aware of surroundings;

- Endeavor not to hit obstructions (light poles, parking bumpers, etc.);

- In many cases, pushing snow across streets is against local laws. It is advised to avoid this when possible;

- When plowing past a vehicle(s), endeavor to angle the plow blade away from the vehicle(s);

- When clearing snow away from curbs where sidewalks abut said curbs, the snow plow blade should angle away from curbs;

- When clearing sidewalks, if possible, push snow onto grass areas and not into paved areas, unless using a secondary support truck to clear snow pushed from the sidewalk into the designated area immediately;

- Do not leave a ridge of snow where the sidewalk meets the parking area/aisle;

- Endeavor not to plow snow into loading docks, only out from the dock area itself;

- When plowing onto grass areas, raise the plow slightly to avoid potential grass damage;

- Know that parking decks require special attention depending upon deck coating material and weight restrictions.

You may also want to consider training your new snow plow operator on different blade positions and their best uses, preseason procedures, identifying hazardous conditions and safety preparedness. Whether you’re training a new employee or refreshing your team on plowing best practices, you can use this guide to remind and inform your crews about the best snow removal practices.

*This information was republished with the permission of the ASCA.

The Accredited Snow Contractors Association, ASCA, is a trade association with the purpose of advancing the snow and ice management industry. ANSI/ASCA A1000-2014: System Requirements for Snow and Ice Management Services, is intended to be implemented and applied (on a voluntary basis) in conjunction with ISO 9001 with respect to the processes of providing snow and ice management services.  For information on purchasing a copy of the ANSI/ASCA A1000-2014 standards visit:  http://www.ascaonline.org/ansi-standards.aspx

Driver Assist Technology on the All-New Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 Driver Assist Technology is explained