The 2023 Ford F-Series Super Duty lineup of pickup trucks and chassis cabs introduced a range of technologies designed to enhance efficiency for builders and commercial fleets. Among these are Head-Up Display and a Pro Trailer Hitch Assist system.
The new Head-Up Display provides drivers with quick access to vital information without having to divert their attention from the road, according to the company. Projecting key data on the lower half of the windshield, this system offers different views tailored to specific driving modes, such as Normal Mode, Tow-Haul Mode, and Off-Road Mode, ensuring that drivers receive the most relevant information for their trip.
The Pro Trailer Hitch Assist system employs machine learning and computer vision to automate the alignment process when hitching a trailer, and according to the company. Using rear cameras and corner radars, the system aligns the truck’s hitch ball with the trailer coupler, while controlling the truck’s speed, steering, and braking, making the task remarkably effortless.
In other Super Duty specs, the 7.3-liter V8 gas engine offers 430 HP and 485 lb.-ft. of torque, while the High-Output 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 diesel is designed to generate a 500 HP and 1,200 lb.-ft. of torque. The Super Duty includea advanced driver assist technologies such as a Tailgate Down Camera and Rear Park Aid Sensors to provide visual and audible alerts when lowering the tailgate, and according to Ford, onboard scales with Smart Hitch estimates real-time payload and offers guidance on trailer tongue weight distribution. The Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) for Fifth-Wheel and Gooseneck trailers assists in identifying vehicles next to the trailer, providing added confidence during lane changes, the company notes. Pro Trailer Navigation plots routes that consider the dimensions and weight of the trailer, preventing potential issues with low bridges and tight turns. Additionally, Trail Turn Assist virtually locks the rear wheels to achieve a 180-degree turn radius when navigating challenging corners on trails, as highlighted by Ford.
The Super Duty, as noted by Ford, includes Ford Pro Intelligence software products, such as Ford Pro Telematics, a cloud-based platform that leverages vehicle data designed by Ford to provide valuable insights for increased productivity and reduced downtime. The truck sports a mobile office environment with an embedded 5G modem, enabling faster Wi-Fi, mapping, and navigation while on the job. Over-the-air software updates are also available.
