When did Ford switch to aluminum?
Context and significance
Timeline of key milestones
- 2013–2014: Ford conducts extensive testing and prototyping with aluminum panels to validate durability, repair methods, and manufacturing processes.
- January 2014: Ford publicly reveals the plan to switch the F-150 to an aluminum body, presenting the concept at the Detroit Auto Show.
- Late 2014: Production of the 2015 Ford F-150 with an aluminum alloy body begins, as part of the year’s model-year rollout.
- 2014–2015: The 2015 F-150 goes on sale with the aluminum body, drawing widespread attention to the weight-saving strategy.
- Following years: Ford continues refining the aluminum approach and expands its use within the F-Series and related platforms as part of ongoing efficiency goals.
Impacts and considerations
- Weight savings: Ford has cited substantial weight reductions—up to about 700 pounds on certain configurations—contributing to better efficiency and a potential gain in payload on some trims.
- Durability and repairs: The aluminum body required new repair procedures, tooling, and technician training, necessitating adjustments in dealer and body-shop networks.
- Cost and supply chain: The shift demanded new supplier relationships, different tooling, and substantial capital investment in plants and processes to produce aluminum-bodied panels at scale.
Current state and broader context
Summary
