Ford to Build Current, Next F-150 Simultaneously
According to a recent report, Ford will continue to build its current-generation F-150 at the same time as its next-generation F-150 to safeguard itself against potential headaches with the extensive changes happening to the truck.
The Ford F-Series was the best-selling vehicle in 2012, so it’s no surprise that Ford wants to be sure its trucks are available without interruption. The American auto maker plans to produce its current F-150 and the new model side-by-side for about six months to avoid interrupting sales. Production on the next-generation F-150 is expected to begin July 2014, which means the current F-150 will remain in production until the end of 2014.
SEE ALSO: Ford Atlas Concept Previews Next-Gen F-Series
According to Morgan Stanley, the F-Series pickup trucks and SUV derivatives account for more than 90 percent of the auto maker’s global profits, which means an interruption in the F-150 production could prove costly. The F-150 is currently built in Kansas City, Missouri and Dearborn, Michigan with the Dearborn facility partially shut down during the last week of June for some upgrades to get ready for the new F-150 production.
The next-generation Ford F-150 was previewed at the Detroit Auto Show this year with the Ford Atlas concept. Ford is looking to cut at least 700 pounds from its truck through the use of aluminum and lightweight materials.
GALLERY: Ford Atlas Concept Live
GALLERY: Ford Atlas Concept
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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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