When Ford redesigned the F-150 for 2015, the company went with an aluminum body, which cut 700 pounds from the weight of the vehicle and increased fuel economy. According to recently released EPA mileage figures, a 2015 2WD F-150 with a 2.7-liter V-6 has a combined fuel economy rating of 22 mpg (19 city; 26 highway). A 4×4 with the same engine comes in slighter lower with 23 mpg (18 city; 23 highway). In addition to better gas mileage, you also get greater load capacity because you’re hauling “less” truck.
This may not be all you get. As reported in Tools of the Trade, the famous automotive resource, Edmunds, has discovered you get higher autobody repair bills, as well.
Edmunds purcheased a new F-150 for a long-term evaluation. The report starts here, with the explaination: "Making the switch to an aluminum body for its top-selling pickup was the biggest gamble Ford has made in decades. It cost the company hundreds of millions of dollars in development work, plant upgrades and dealer training, all in the hope that it will make the F-150 superior in terms of capability and efficiency."
Whether or not you care that much about repairing every little ding and dent in a work truck, the videosmight help resolve one of the bigger questions about an aluminum body: We all know how easy it is to crush an aluminum beer can. What will happen to the sides of the bed when a load of lumber shifts or a helper slams a toolbox into them? Read more.
