Which Ford models are aluminum?
The Ford F-150 is the flagship model most associated with aluminum use—Ford launched an aluminum-intensive body for the 2015 redesign. Beyond the F-Series, aluminum appears mainly on select panels or trims of other models rather than as a full aluminum-bodied lineup.
This article outlines which Ford models currently use aluminum and to what extent, reflecting developments through 2024 and into 2025 as Ford continues to balance weight, strength, and cost across its lineup.
Models with significant aluminum usage
Below are the models most notable for aluminum in their construction. The list focuses on cases where aluminum is a major or defining material in the body or key exterior components.
- Ford F-150 (2015–present): The body and cargo bed are predominantly aluminum alloy, a major shift designed to reduce weight while preserving strength. The frame remains primarily steel. This remains the backbone of Ford’s aluminum strategy.
- Ford F-150 Lightning (2022–present): As an electric variant of the F-150, it shares the same aluminum-intensive body design and construction as the regular F-150, reinforcing the platform’s aluminum emphasis.
- Ford Mustang (recent generations): Uses a mixed-material approach with aluminum in some exterior panels to reduce weight, while other body parts remain steel or other materials. The extent varies by year and model configuration.
Note: The exact distribution of aluminum can vary by model year, trim, and market. For precise specifications, consult the official Ford product literature for the specific year and trim.
In short, Ford’s bold move to aluminum is concentrated in the F-Series, with the F-150 leading the way. Other models employ aluminum more selectively, primarily on panels rather than the entire body.
Summary
Ford’s aluminum strategy centers on the F-150, which established the aluminum body seen across the line. While other models—most notably the Mustang—use aluminum in selected panels to shave weight, a full aluminum body remains uncommon outside the F-Series. As Ford updates its lineup, aluminum usage may expand or shift depending on design goals and market demands.
