Ford has rolled out its 2011 F-150, announced plans for its 2012 model year medium-duty chassis cabs and provided details on an alternative fuel offering. Representing what the manufacturer said is “the most extensive powertrain overhaul in the 62-year history of Ford F-Series trucks,” the 2011 Ford F-150 was introduced in early fall 2010. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the company also noted the 2011 F-150 is projected to be up to 20 percent more fuel efficient than the 2010 model.

The Ford F-150 for 2011 can be spec’ed with one of four new engines, each with the OEM’s twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) technology. Available now are a 302-HP 3.7-liter V6 rated at 278 lb/ft of torque, and two V8s including 5.0-liter (360 HP, 380 lb/ft) and 6.2-liter (411 HP, 434 lb/ft) models. A twin-turbocharged 463 HP/420 lb/ft 3.5-liter EcoBoost model that puts out up to 90 percent of its peak torque from 1,700 to 5,000 RPM will be available in early 2011.

Behind the F-150 engines in 2011 is a six-speed automatic transmission that is standard with Ford’s SelectShift functionality. The system uses an array of electronic sensors to predict the need for a downshift and to provide engine braking, and allows drivers to select a desired gear. The transmission also features progressive range select, which allows the driver to lock out available gears while in Drive. Also enabled is tow/haul mode for better control when hauling a heavy load or towing a trailer, especially when descending grades.

Another fuel saver on the 2011 F-150 that Ford pointed out is electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) on trucks equipped with 3.7-liter V6, 5.0-liter V8 and 3.5-liter EcoBoost engines. EPAS replaces a conventional hydraulic system, which runs continuously off the engine, and only draws power when needed. Another benefit, according to Ford, is that the steering gear software can be programmed for optimum feel in each model based on wheelbase, powertrain specs and other factors.

 Ford Work Solutions are also being offered on the 2011 F-150. Included are SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information that uses voice-recognition software, integrated GPS technology and a Bluetooth-capable mobile phone to deliver personalized traffic reports and precise turn-by-turn directions. Also part of the offering is an in-dash computer with high-speed Internet and wireless accessories; Tool Link, a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) asset tracking system for maintaining a real-time inventory of tools or equipment on the vehicle; Crew Chief, a telematics and diagnostics system; and a Cable Lock System to secure large tools or equipment in the cargo area.

 Ford also announced that its 2012 Class 6 and Class 7 F-Series chassis cab models, ranging from 20,500 to 30,000 lbs GVWR, will be equipped with a 6.8-liter V10 gasoline engine rated 362 HP at 4,750 RPM and 457 lb/ft of torque at 3,250 RPM. The medium-duty trucks equipped with the V10 gasoline model, available for order in the fourth quarter of 2011, will be fitted with a heavy-duty six-speed TorqShift automatic transmission, designed with a powder-metal carrier in the compound planetary gearset that enables more torque capacity and greater engine speed capability.

Also included on the TorqShift six-speed are Live Drive PTO gears, which feature an output linked directly to the engine crankshaft to provide PTO operation any time the engine is running, regardless of vehicle speed. That gives work truck fleets the capability to power PTO-driven accessories such as dump bodies, sprayer pumps, generators, salt spreaders and snowplows.

Also in the news from Ford is an alternative fuels engine conversion option, which will become available this fall on F-450 and F-550 Super Duty chassis cab trucks that use the OEM’s 6.8-liter V10. To enable the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), the manufacturer noted, the engine is designed with hardened exhaust valves and valve seats for improved wear resistance and durability. Gaseous fuel systems are an increasingly popular choice for fleets looking to cut fuel costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.