Code Name: “Raptor”

Reports have been going around that Ford is currently working on a modified F-150. This new version of the popular and well-loved F-150 is supposed to execute with an impressive high-performance. Being an off-road version of Ford F-150, it is being developed with the internal code name of “Raptor.” This adapted, enhanced version will be sporting a long-travel suspension. Its tires are 35 inches and its engine could possibly be the turbocharged variety of Ford’s famous upcoming EcoBoost engine. With a Boss V8 Engine, the Raptor is said to be lower and yet broader compared to the standard F-150 model. Its capabilities would include being able to pull through at high speed even at the roughest ground.

The EcoBoost engine that the Raptor will have is a part of Ford’s approach in helping improve fuel economy. Ford says that the EcoBoost engine will be able to carry out up to 20 percent better fuel economy and not just that but it will give be able to give out 15 percent improvement in emissions. These are all possible without the harm of compromising the performance of the vehicle. Promoted to be lesser in amount in comparison to the hybrids and direct-injected diesels, it is clear that the EcoBoost engine would indeed be a smart choice.

If the so-called Raptor has passed the set standard and given the green light, it could become available to the public roughly two years from now.

source: autonorth.ca

2008 Ford Super Duty Trucks

When it comes to trucks, the Ford Super Duty is the leader, because it is “Built Ford Tough from the ground up.” The line-up of the 2008 Ford Super Duty trucks has been expanded to make room for F-450. According to Mark Fields, the President of the Americas, “Every aspect of the new line of Super Duty trucks, including capability enhancements, design changes and feature innovations is uniquely designed after spending a great deal of time talking with – and listening to – our customers.”

The Super Duty trucks have undergone innovations to make them better for everyone. Its dual turbos execute more power more quickly and it advance fuel injection makes it possible to deliver a cleaner burn with reduced engine clanging and rattling. This results to a more effective acceleration and reduced emissions. The Super Duty trucks have 6.4L PowerStroke V8 Turbo diesel which has a maximum of 350 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Ford Clean Diesel Technology is also used, with a Diesel Particulate Filter which traps the soot particles. Being able to give a cleaner burn with less odor and helps make the emissions system last for a long time, the 6.4 diesel is the cleanest and most quiet truck diesel that Ford ever had. For improved durability, the Super Duty trucks have high-strength front end, longer rear leaf springs (eight inches) and a sturdy frame.

This line-up boasts of best-in-class towing capability which, when the F-450 is properly equipped, can pull up to an amazing 24,500 lbs. Its best-in-class turning radius help give the drivers ease in maneuvering. With a class-leading payload of 6,120 lbs. (maximum) when properly equipped, it has a class-leading payload capacity. Other features of the Super Duty trucks are the reverse camera system, stowable bed extender, handy integrated tailgate step, and a rapid-heat cab heater. It also has the optional chrome package available in the F-Series Super Duty XLT, FX4, Lariat and King Ranch. This optional package includes chrome skull cap mirrors, exhaust tip, bed hooks, and others more.

source: Hot Super Cars

2009 Ford F-150: “Most Capable Truck Ever”

The 2009 Ford F-150 was called by Alan Mulally, Ford Motor Company’s President and CEO, as Ford’s “most capable truck ever.” It is designed with their wide range of customers in mind. The all-new F-150 has styles to choose from: XL, STX, XLT, FX4, Lariat, and the King Ranch. Aside from these is the new Platinum Edition. This is built for luxury and boasts of 10-way leather captain chairs, its dashboard with real wood, and the cabin is trimmed with brushed aluminum. Given their massive and diverse customers, the 2009 Ford F-150 has 35 available unique configurations. There is something for everybody’s needs and taste.

Three V8 engines are on offer with this model: a 4.6L 3-valve, 5.41L 3-valve and a 4.6L 2-valve which proffers more power but still has the same fuel economy. Some time in the near future, Ford will be presenting diesel engines and their new EcoBoost engine, which allows gasoline engine to function like a diesel engine. It has a 4-speed automatic transmission on 4.6L 2-valve models and a 6-speed automatic on all the other models.

The exterior of this Ford F-150 has a frame which is fully boxed, made of hydroformed high-strength steel. The frame may be lighter but that does not mean it is not tough. This actually brings in ten percent more in torsional solidity, increase in payload and a higher capacity in hauling as compared to the other previous models.

The all-new 2009 Ford F-150 is designed with a larger interior, holding up to 30 storage compartments, all of them in an assortment of sizes. A larger console can hold two laptops, maximum. Ford Sync is made available, as well as Sirius TraveLink, a Sony 700 watt speaker audio system with ten speakers. This model have systems installed which aid in keeping the truck under control when doing quick turns: the AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control and Trailer Sway Control. There is also an optional rear camera placed at the tailgate and an optional integrated trailer brake controller. This becomes automatically activated when the brakes are stepped on. The other options for the 2009 Ford F-150 are the Box Side Step, Tailgate Step with Pull-up Bar which was initially introduced in the 2008 Super Duty model, Stowable Bed Extender, Cargo Management System, and the Midbox Storage.

Ford trucks are built tough and the all-new F-150 comes in a solid structure, giving emphasis on strength and safety. Its front and rear were redesigned for the purpose of enhanced handling and an excellent driving experience. The cab itself is made six inches longer; the leg room made more spacious for ease and comfort of the passengers. The front door post was moved back to provide a better peripheral vision. This all-new 2009 Ford F-150 will be available in Fall 2008.

Source: About.com

DogCatRadio.com’s “Pet Friendliest Automaker” Award Goes To Ford

Ford Motor Company had received yet another distinction, this time from DogCatRadio, a radio station based in Los Angeles. DoCatRadio.com is a well-known pet company whose audience base is the pet lovers spread all over America. They do reviews of different models from different automakers. The factors for which they base their reviews on are spaciousness, affordability, fuel economy, safety, and of course, creature comforts. They have chosen Ford as the “Pet Friendliest Automaker” for 2008, being awarded the said recognition for the reason that their vehicle models present not only comfort and safety for the owners but easy access for their pets as well.

Built Ford Tough Truck: The 2008 F-150

Ford has released a new pickup truck for this year: Built Ford Tough Truck, the 2008 F-150. This pickup truck is promised to be sturdy and dependable, what with its towing capabilities and strong frame. It has the most payload as well as the most towing capabilities. But what sets the 2008 Ford F-150 is the comfort it provides and the exclusive features that goes with it. The engines are made sure they are competent enough to give much pulling power, ensuring that the job gets done. The F-150 frame has a tough structure which resists twisting and warping. It also has what a truck needs to be tough: Most excellent payload of 1356 kg or 2990 lbs.

The convenience 2008 Ford F-150 brings is evident in its storage content and midbox storage system. The truck can seat up to five adult passengers and will still have enough space for their things. Space won’t be a problem, not with this truck. Its new MidBox provides protected storage by means of a 5.5’ box. This box is easily reached from both sides of the vehicle. It makes certain that the things stored in the MidBox are safe and secure. 2008 Ford F-150 also provides its owners safety through it trademark Personal Safety System, improved brakes, a secured lock wherein the wrong key and code would make the engine unable to start. It also comes with the All-New Reverse Camera System, which is strategically placed on the tailgate and is activated when the vehicle is in reverse gear.

The 2008 Ford F-150 presents not only comfort and convenience but a smooth ride. Its exterior is refined without losing its rugged touch. With its obvious good quality, it had received quite good reviews.