Friday, April 29, 2022

Beginning as a Cardboard Prototype, the 2022 F-150 Lightning Pickup’s Mega Power Frunk Now Boasts the Largest Front Trunk in the Truck Industry



• Ford truck and fleet owners and customers guided decision-making for the innovative design of the F-150 Lightning pickup’s Mega Power Frunk, leading to multiple power sources and enough space to house two golf bags

• Ford user experience team uncovered important customer wants with cardboard prototype made in a few hours with scissors, a razor blade and a hot glue gun

• Mega Power Frunk design and engineering teams faced lofty challenges, including an asymmetrical frunk, drainable floor and waterfall hood design to meet customer expectations

DEARBORN, Mich.– A cardboard box found a new lease on life after being recruited by Ford to help develop a new feature known as the Mega Power Frunk. The all-electric 2022 F-150 Lightning pickup’s new front trunk or, as it’s known in industry speak “frunk” is the largest in the truck industry – with 400 liters (14.1 cubic feet) of cargo space and  maximum payload capacity of 400 pound

“The F-150 Lightning pickup’s Mega Power Frunk is one of those features that reshape what vehicles can provide for customers. It’s sheer size, ample power supply, drainable floor and open and close system that opens with the touch of a button make it frunking awesome!” said Linda Zhang, F-150 Lightning Chief Program Engineer.

What many don’t know is this spacious and dynamic space began life as a simple cardboard box with a cutout front door and a liftable hood.

Understanding the Customer’s Needs

It began back in February 2018 with Team Edison – Ford’s dedicated battery electric vehicles incubator that incorporates close collaboration between different teams to find solutions to customer needs. A small group of young user experience designers set out to California, where they sat down with actual Ford truck and fleet customers to talk about how they might use such a feature. The prototype, made of cardboard for simplicity and cost and built in about a day using scissors and hot glue, was brought to every meeting to help customers visualize the opportunity.

In the studio, Greg Ardisana, design strategy director, passenger vehicles, and other Team Edison research members worked as consultants alongside engineering and design whenever they had customer use questions, which led to a close-knit collaboration between groups.

Once the frunk is open, customers can fill it with ice and drinks to “frunkgate” it, since it’s water-resistant, cleanable and has a drainable floor.

Steve McInally, frunk feature supervisor, said the team explored every detail as an opportunity. “We put the customer first in every decision we made and were able to deliver on a Mega Power Frunk,” he said. “And it’s going to blow people’s minds.” The 2022 F-150 Lightning pickup will be available starting Spring 2022.

# # #

1 - Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.

2 - FordPass App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply. 

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, that is committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams.  The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for and deepen the loyalty of those customers.  Ford designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of connected, increasingly electrified passenger and commercial vehicles:  Ford trucks, utility vehicles, vans and cars, and Lincoln luxury vehicles.  The company is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, connected vehicle services and mobility solutions, including self-driving technology, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.  Ford employs about 184,000 people worldwide.  More information about the company, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company is available at corporate.ford.com.


Tuesday, April 26, 2022

Tire Blow Out Reaction Tips


Tires are the most important part of your vehicle and unexpected blows outs happen almost everyday! Watch this video to find out the two key steps to keep you safe in the event of a tire blow out.

Monday, April 25, 2022

F-150 Lightning Launch | Rouge Electric Vehicle Center | Built For America


April 26 marks the launch of the all-new, all-electric F-150® Lightning™ pickup, a milestone moment in America's shift to electric vehicles. Ford and UAW leaders will host F-150 Lightning customers and Ford employees at the new Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, Michigan to celebrate "Job 1" and the start of production for the first-ever full-size all-electric pickup to go on sale. The Rouge Electric Vehicle Center is Ford's ultra-modern new facility within Ford’s historic Rouge Complex where Henry Ford perfected the moving assembly line and scaled the Model T.

Saturday, April 23, 2022

Curt ShockDrop™ Technology | Comfortable, Controlled, Confident Towing


ShockDrop™ technology is a cushion hitch system designed to enhance your comfort, control and confidence when towing a trailer. It is comprised of an innovative, flexible polyurethane isolator that dynamically adapts to bumps, potholes and uneven surfaces on the road. It suppresses rattling, vibrations, jerking and jarring at the coupling point to provide you with a superior towing experience.

ShockDrop™ technology is engineered to be the next generation of towing products, offering valuable benefits for professionals and enthusiasts alike. ShockDrop™ is integrated into a growing line of CURT products, enabling a variety of lifestyles for a more enjoyable towing experience.

ShockDrop™ provides enhanced control in your driving by counteracting the effects of uneven roads. It also helps increase the driver’s control over the vehicle in events of sudden braking and combats the tendency for undesirable trailer sway. ShockDrop™ technology is also a benefit to the life of your vehicle and towing equipment. The cushion isolator reduces the strain of towing on your vehicle’s brakes and suspension system to promote longevity. Compared to other cushion hitch solutions, ShockDrop™ is lighter-weight, putting less stress on your receiver hitch.

For maximum confidence, ShockDrop™ technology is engineered for simplicity. Each product is designed to be virtually maintenance-free. The cushion isolator is thoroughly tested for thousands of cycles, and it won’t wear out like competitive solutions that use an airbag or bearings.

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Ford Truck Dearborn Assembly Plant


Ford Motor Company automobile factory complex located in Dearborn, Michigan, along the River Rouge, upstream from its confluence with the Detroit River at Zug Island. Construction began in 1917, and when it was completed in 1928, it was the largest integrated factory in the world.

Tuesday, April 19, 2022

AAA StartSmart - Distracted Driving


Follow a group of six high school students and their parents as they attend the AAA StartSmart Academy where they learn how to develop safe driving habits from an over-the-top instructor named Crash — short for "Creating Responsible Automobile Safety Habits".

Sunday, April 17, 2022

THE FUTURE OF CUSTOM VEHICLES: FORD UNVEILS ALL-ELECTRIC F-100 ELUMINATOR CONCEPT WITH NEW EV CRATE MOTOR CUSTOMERS CAN NOW BUY



  • All-electric Ford F-100 Eluminator concept truck showcases the benefits of electric propulsion using a 2021 Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition battery electric powertrain and twin front and rear electric traction motors that produce a combined 480 horsepower and 634 lb.-ft. of torque*
  • Now available to purchase online or at a local dealer through Ford Performance Parts, the Eluminator electric crate motor from the Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition produces 281 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque
  • Ford to lead electric performance revolution with all-electric Mustang Cobra Jet 1400 drag car; plus, Vaughn Gittin Jr. reimagines drifting in thrilling, smoke-filled Mach-E 1400 exhibitions, while 
  • Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition reinvents exhilarating touring car performance – all are on display at SEMA

LAS VEGAS, SEMA SHOW 2021– Ford previews the future of electrified custom vehicles with the reveal of the all-electric F-100 Eluminator concept – a zero-tailpipe-emissions** demonstration truck powered by the all-new Ford Performance Parts Eluminator electric crate motor that customers can now buy online.

Based on a heritage 1978 F-100 pickup, the F-100 Eluminator concept features all-wheel drive via two powerful electric motors shared with the 2021 Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition. Two electric traction motors drive the front and rear wheels, packing a powerful 480 horsepower and 634 lb.-ft. of torque. Eluminator, the first e-crate motor from Ford Performance Parts, is based on the Mustang Mach-E GT’s traction motor.

“Ford owners have personalized, customized and enhanced their vehicles since the beginning – from changing looks to bringing the power,” said Eric Cin, global director, Vehicle Personalization, Accessories and Licensing. “Our F-100 Eluminator concept is a preview of how we’re supporting customers as they go all-electric and embrace zero-tailpipe emissions performance, even for our heritage vehicles.”

The all-electric F-100 Eluminator concept, designed and created by Ford Performance, was built in collaboration with MLe Racecars and sits on a custom chassis by the Roadster Shop. It’s painted in Avalanche Gray with Cerakote Copper accents applied by Brand X Customs, while the interior features a billet aluminum dash by JJR Fabrication and avocado-tanned leather upholstery by MDM Upholstery. It’s fitted with custom 19x10-inch billet aluminum three-piece wheels by Forgeline wrapped in Michelin® Latitude® Sport 275/45-19 high-performance tires.

Eluminator e-crate motor ignites electric performance revolution

Globally, vehicle performance parts and accessories industry generates approximately $50 billion annually, that covers hardware for everything from hot rods to off-road vehicles, and from mobile electronics to vehicle accessories.

Ford Vehicle Personalization and Ford Performance Parts continue to add new choices for customers, like the Eluminator e-crate motor, as the shift to electric vehicles accelerates. It’s the first of what will become a growing portfolio of performance parts and accessories for Ford electric vehicles.

Part No. M-9000-MACH-E, the e-crate motor is now available at authorized Ford parts warehouse dealers or online at Ford Performance Parts. Retailing at $3,900, it is targeted for builders looking for a transverse-oriented powertrain to electrify a range of vehicles from modern to vintage cars, trucks and SUVs. Each Eluminator e-crate motor produces 281 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque and is street-legal in all 50 states.

Over time, Ford Performance plans to develop a wider list of components for the Eluminator powertrain with some of the leading performance manufacturers, including battery systems, controllers and traction inverters to close the loop on full turnkey aftermarket electrification solutions.
Ford to lead aftermarket electric performance revolution

With the push toward electrification, several electric-powered vehicles on display at the Ford set, booth No. 22200, include the 1,400-horsepower electric Mustang Mach-E 1400 demo, driven by Vaughn Gittin Jr. in smoke-filled, tire-thrashing exhibition rides at Ford Out Front at Las Vegas Convention Center.

The first all-electric 2022 F-150 Lightning™ is also on display, along with a factory Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition next to the all-electric F-100 Eluminator concept. Three custom Mustang Mach-E creations include a prototype from Shelby American, showing could come from the legendary Ford racing collaborator. Jim Osborn, former pro SCCA racer and founder of the Austin Hatcher Foundation, is preparing their custom Mustang Mach-E GT build to run at the Bonneville Speed Week next summer with the goal of being the first Mustang Mach-E to top the 200-mph mark.

This past weekend, Ford’s Mustang Cobra Jet 1400, an electric-powered exhibition dragster prepared by Ford Performance and MLe Racecars, demonstrated its quickness at the NHRA Nationals in Las Vegas.

“The fact is, electric performance is fun, and as the industry moves toward electric vehicles, motorsports and the performance aftermarket will too,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance. “Just as Ford is committed to leading the electric revolution on the product side, Ford Performance is equally committed to winning on the performance and motorsports front.”

All of the vehicles shown have been modified by independent vehicle modifiers for SEMA. They are for demonstration purposes only and are not available for sale by Ford. Ford’s display of these vehicles is not intended to, nor does it constitute an endorsement of the vehicle modifiers, vehicle modifications, or use of the vehicles by Ford. Ford has not evaluated these modified vehicles. Vehicle owners and modifiers should consult their Ford’s owner’s manual before modifying vehicles and for proper usage. 

Vehicles that are not street legal or certified under FMVSS and safety and emission regulations are not intended or certified for use on public roads.
# # #
* Calculated via peak performance of the electric motor(s) at peak battery power. Your results may vary.
** Visit fueleconomy.gov for more information.
All of the vehicles shown have been modified by independent vehicle modifiers for SEMA. They are for demonstration purposes only and are not available for sale by Ford. Ford’s display of these vehicles is not intended to, nor does it constitute an endorsement of the vehicle modifiers, vehicle modifications, or use of the vehicles by Ford. Ford has not evaluated these modified vehicles. Vehicle owners and modifiers should consult their Ford’s owner’s manual before modifying vehicles and for proper usage. Vehicles that are not street legal or certified under FMVSS and safety and emission regulations are not intended or certified for use on public roads.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, that is committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams.  The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for and deepen the loyalty of those customers.  Ford designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of connected, increasingly electrified passenger and commercial vehicles:  Ford trucks, utility vehicles, vans and cars, and Lincoln luxury vehicles.  The company is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, connected vehicle services and mobility solutions, including self-driving technology, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.  Ford employs about 183,000 people worldwide.  More information about the company, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company is available at corporate.ford.com.

Friday, April 15, 2022

Towing Overview | Ford How-To | Ford


This informative video will help explain some of the features your vehicle may have that can help with towing a trailer.

Thursday, April 14, 2022

SPITZ LIFT Fold-Down Crane


Load capacity = 900 lbs.
Crane weight = 46 lbs.
Install weight = 99 lbs.

User friendly
Cost efficient

B U I L T T O L I F T

Learn more at: https://spitzlift.com/

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

The Tree Ranger Chipper Body From Enoven


Sam with Enoven Truck Body shows off the new line of chipper bodies from Enoven called the Tree Ranger.  This is a 12 ft unit that is fully spec'd with all the essential features for your tree service needs.  See more at http://www.enoven.com

Sunday, April 10, 2022

2023 Ford F-150 Rattler



The F-150 Rattler package is built off the XL series, with FX4 content featuring skid plates to help ensure Built Ford Tough protection for a confident off-road experience, electronic rear-locking differential for enhanced traction, hill descent control for precision throttle and braking on steep descents, and specially tuned off-road shock absorbers for increased stability over tough terrain. In addition, F-150 Rattler features rugged all-terrain tires for versatility and capability.

Friday, April 8, 2022

CURT 5th Wheels Introduction


The CURT 5th wheel line offers a range of weight capacities, mounting options, and more OEM puck system products than anyone else on the market.

Each 5th wheel fits into one of three categories based on features, design and quality: the A-series, Q-series, and E-series. All 5th wheels are available with legs, base rails, rollers, OEM legs and OEM roller adapters

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

Presentation of the electric Ford F150 Lightning at the Work Truck Show in Indianapolis


This is the presentation given by Tim Baughman of Ford Pro to the Work Truck Show 2022 press event in Indianapolis. The all new electric Ford F150 Lightning is re-inventing pickup truck propulsion and also terminology with the 'Frunk' !! If you don't what this is - watch the video.

Electric Van & Truck

Sunday, April 3, 2022

Motiv Power Systems at Work Truck Week 2022 - Work Truck Week


To stay up to date with Work Truck Direct and news within the industry give our channel a like and check out our other social channels! Website: https://worktruckdirect.com/

Friday, April 1, 2022

Reading Truck Body's Classic II Service Body


The Steel Classic II™ is Reading’s premier steel service body, with quality components, innovative features and Reading’s legendary durability. You enjoy Reading’s trademark quality construction plus premium features like weather-tight storage, Latch-Matic® locking, small parts storage, optional aerial and crane devices and much more. This is the pinnacle among steel service body options on the market. Reading’s Classic II™ aluminum service body combines the superior fuel economy and corrosion resistance of aluminum with Reading’s legendary quality and durability. Built with premium recycled aluminum alloy, the body is bathed in a zinc phosphate bath to prep it for improved adhesion of Reading’s durable powder coat finish, to resist corrosion better than any other service truck body on the market. It features all the standard and exclusive options that have made our flagship Classic II™ a leader in the truck body industry while offering environmental benefits that today’s consumers appreciate. Standard features include a pressed diamond plate floor and inner tailgate surface, heavy-duty compartment doors and a rugged undercoated understructure for superior durability and strength. The Classic II™ aluminum service truck body also features Reading’s exclusive adjustable hidden hinges, Dual-Pro® door seals, a slam-action tailgate and much more. Add our industry-leading 5-year limited warranty for steel and 10-year limited warranty for aluminum. It’s easy to see why there’s No Body Better than the Classic II™.