Did Ford stop using aluminum?
No, Ford has not stopped using aluminum in its vehicles. In fact, the automaker has been increasingly incorporating aluminum into its vehicle designs in recent years to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency.
Ford's Aluminum Usage
Ford first introduced aluminum-bodied vehicles in 2015 with the launch of the 13th generation F-150 pickup truck. The switch to an aluminum body helped the F-150 shed up to 700 pounds compared to previous steel-bodied models. This weight reduction allowed for improved fuel economy and towing capacity.
Since then, Ford has expanded its use of aluminum to other models, including the Ford Expedition, Ford Explorer, and Ford Super Duty trucks. The company has stated that it plans to continue using aluminum as a key material in its vehicle designs going forward.
Benefits of Aluminum
The primary benefits of using aluminum in vehicle construction include:
- Weight reduction: Aluminum is about one-third the weight of steel, allowing for significant weight savings in a vehicle.
- Improved fuel efficiency: Reducing a vehicle's weight improves its fuel economy and reduces emissions.
- Corrosion resistance: Aluminum is more resistant to corrosion than steel, improving a vehicle's long-term durability.
- Recyclability: Aluminum can be recycled repeatedly without losing its properties, making it a more sustainable material.
While aluminum does cost more than steel, the benefits it provides have made it an increasingly attractive material for automakers like Ford looking to improve the performance and efficiency of their vehicles.
