Ford SUVs Might Be Next With Aluminum Bodies
The Ford F-150 might not be the only vehicle in the American automaker’s lineup to make generous use of aluminum.
The company is so pleased with the weight savings as a result of aluminum usage on its pickup that the next-generation Explorer and Expedition are both under consideration for the same treatment. The SUVs are both important models to Ford’s lineup, and saving weight on both of them in order to improve fuel economy is pivotal to their success in the future.
SEE ALSO: 2015 Ford Expedition Goes All EcoBoost All the Time
As a result, both models are candidates for aluminum use, which helped cut the F-150’s weight by 700 lbs compared to the 2014 model. Aluminum is more expensive than traditional steel, but Ford believes its benefits are worth the extra amount, though it remains to be seen how the automaker’s first mass-production aluminum vehicle will be received with the general public. Regardless, Ford is hoping to improve fuel economy on both the Explorer and Expedition. Once the 2015 F-150 goes on sale, it will serve as a measuring stick for Ford in deciding whether or not to make the move. That decision isn’t likely to bring such a product until after another five or six years.
GALLERY: 2015 Ford Expedition
[Source: Edmunds]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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