Aluminum F150
08-11-2012, 11:08 PM
#1
Aluminum F150
08-12-2012, 01:13 AM
#3
Senior Member
I read an article where ford denied that they were gonna use alimnuim for the frame cause of high initial cost, high repair cost and the fact it would still corrode. Quick question wouldn't a frame made like that have a bias to crack and not just bend? Also I clicked your link and from my phone I can't find the article your referring too. Interesting subject though. All this new tech makes me want go buy an old 300 and restore it..
Last edited by Wilkinz027; 08-12-2012 at 01:15 AM.
08-12-2012, 01:48 AM
#4
It’s goodbye steel and hello aluminum, according to sources from inside the Detroit automaker.
Apparently Ford is going ultra-light with their next generation F-150, due in 2015. According to the Wall Street Journal, sources from the Detroit automaker report there are plans to shed almost 700lbs from their iconic F-150 model range, leading to a change that could impact the way people around the world view trucks. The big change from a steel to an aluminum body would not only save an incredible amount of weight but also help Ford meet the strict fuel standards handed down from the US government
In addition to the new trend of turbocharged V6s replacing the contemporary V8, Ford might well be on their way to achieving previously unheard of numbers in terms of efficiency for trucks.WSJ also says that this gamble in materials would present a bit of a problem in terms of marketing as pickup truck buyers are a stubborn and conservative sort. If these reports are to be believed, then convincing them aluminum is as tough as steel could prove to be quite the challenge
Rising fuel costs could be as good an argument as any to persuade consumers to change their tune towards the lighter material. Ford would then, of course, be challenged to keep costs down as the aluminum used in automobiles tends to run a much higher price than standard steel.
Apparently Ford is going ultra-light with their next generation F-150, due in 2015. According to the Wall Street Journal, sources from the Detroit automaker report there are plans to shed almost 700lbs from their iconic F-150 model range, leading to a change that could impact the way people around the world view trucks. The big change from a steel to an aluminum body would not only save an incredible amount of weight but also help Ford meet the strict fuel standards handed down from the US government
In addition to the new trend of turbocharged V6s replacing the contemporary V8, Ford might well be on their way to achieving previously unheard of numbers in terms of efficiency for trucks.WSJ also says that this gamble in materials would present a bit of a problem in terms of marketing as pickup truck buyers are a stubborn and conservative sort. If these reports are to be believed, then convincing them aluminum is as tough as steel could prove to be quite the challenge
Rising fuel costs could be as good an argument as any to persuade consumers to change their tune towards the lighter material. Ford would then, of course, be challenged to keep costs down as the aluminum used in automobiles tends to run a much higher price than standard steel.
08-12-2012, 08:06 PM
#7
Senior Member
Originally Posted by billf
The hood on my 2012 F150 is non-magnetic and very light. Makes me think that the F150 already uses some aluminum.
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08-12-2012, 09:11 PM
#8
Senior Member
I'm ok with body panels. Not so much frames, the current gen already have frame bending issues, I put an RPGs frame brace on my truck I can tell you that 25000km on it and my frame was bent even if it was slight. I had never offroaded my truck or really abused it all either. I mean I spent a small fortune on it and it's the first new vehicle I've ever owned. I can see it happening but then I think you will see the half ton turn back into a half ton with reduced payload and towing capacity. And I still dont wanna be the first one to buy one.
08-12-2012, 10:59 PM
#9
Senior Member
I can see it happening but then I think you will see the half ton turn back into a half ton with reduced payload and towing capacity. And I still dont wanna be the first one to buy one.
And, aluminum has become cheap enough to be mass produced in vehicles. My 2010 will be traded in on a 2015 Eco-Boost. Bring it on!
Look at how many Fords are using aluminum body panels today.
http://www.paintgages.com/List-of-Ca...anels-s/51.htm