While the Ford F-150's history officially began in 1975, earlier vehicles laid the groundwork for America's preferred car|Ford
You can debate nearly anything concerning cars and trucks and also trucks, but one thing is impossible to suggest: Ford F-150 is the indisputable heavyweight champ of American roads. No lorry has actually been more essential or sold even more versions given that this pick-up's launching in 1975. As of 2017, the F-150 and its durable counterparts topped the sales graphes for 35 straight years.
That's quite a run, and these trucks beat the competitors in their sector for even longer (40 consecutive years). But the F-Series pickups really did not appeared of nowhere during the 1970s. Ford introduced its iconic pick-up way back in 1948, after World War II. Before the F-1 launching that year, the car manufacturer's trucks were simply customized autos.
The 1948 design changed that, and the F-Series continued its evolution right into the 21st century. Nowadays, the F-150 and also durable models sport the most advanced technology and indoor comfort that pickup have actually ever before seen. It absolutely really did not begin in this way. Here are 25 photos of Ford's F-Series pick-ups-- from the earliest days of its precursors to the most up to date off-road conqueror.
1. Ford Design T truck
1925 Ford Version T vehicle
1925 Ford Design T truck|The Henry Ford
To discover the beginnings of Ford vehicles, we have to go all the way back to the 1910s, when the automaker converted the Design T right into a pick-up. As the picture reveals, this vehicle was little more than a roadster with a flatbed fitted over the back wheels. However, even such a fundamental arrangement obtained products relocating the early days of customer transport.
2. Greater utility in the 1930s
1932 Ford Roadster pick-up
By 1932, Ford trucks enhanced considerably in the energy department|Ford
While there was noticeable allure for a Version T truck, Ford improved upon the principle with the Model An as well as Version B. The bed was longer as well as the weight circulation much better, so there was lots of appeal for vehicle buyers throughout the Depression, especially with the arrival of the truck's V8 engine. Yet it was still a roadster and also had its share of constraints.
3. Joining the 1940s war effort
1941 Ford Express
Ford vehicles became part of the war initiative after 1941|Ford
The hardtop, long-bed truck principle took form by the late 1930s, and by the time 1941 designs appeared, there were numerous alternatives for customers. Among the choices were brand-new V6 engines to support the V8 and four-cylinder choices. Ford borrowed both the grille designing and also the underlying system from vehicles right here, as well as introduced extra vehicle plants by 1941 in case the United States went into the battle. Customer production ended for a number of years after the Pearl Harbor invasion.
4. Birth of the F-Series
Two guys using cowboy hats lean on a red Ford F-1 truck as it sits parked before a house
Ford F-1 truck from its debut year|Ford
Complying With World War II, Ford launched its first brand new vehicle system with eight various models. From the half-ton F-1 to the three-ton F-8, customers had lots of selections. Engine alternatives varied from a 95-horsepower V6 to a 100-horsepower V8. F-Series vehicles began with a humble, utilitarian look and better functionality than its predecessors.
5. F-100 marks a new generation
A pale green 1953 Ford F-100
1953 Ford F-100|Ford
In 1953, Ford celebrated its 50th anniversary with the introduction of 2nd generation F-Series designs. The front grille transformed considerably (new engines also arrived), however this redesign was extra substantial. A boosted V8 engine, longer dimensions, far better presence, as well as automatic transmission were introduced. So were hood accessories as well as the classification we recognize today: F-100 and F-250 replaced the three lightest pickups in the schedule.
6. More power for 1954
A red 1956 Ford F-100 with tractor and also integrate drives with a field
1956 Ford F-100 with tractor as well as incorporate|Ford
Updates for F-Series vehicles proceeded throughout the second generation While the wraparound windscreen offered enhanced visibility for drivers, updated power specs broadened their alternatives on the job site. Six cylinder engines maxed out at 115 horses by 1954, while the V8 engine pushed the envelope to 130 horse power. Even more power came over the 1956 version year, with the F-Series V8 engine delivering up to 173 steeds, according to Edmunds.
7. F-Series third generation.
A front-facing Ford F-100 from 1960
1960 Ford F-100|Ford
You can not assist looking change in the face when contrasting the 2nd as well as third generations of F-Series vehicles A square grille as well as double the variety of headlights greeted Ford truck customers beginning in 1960. 3 years previously, the 1957 designs debuted the pickup's larger taxicab and various other updates. Beginning in 1959, Ford started providing 4x4 in manufacturing facility models.
8. 4th generation Ford vehicles.
1963 Ford F-250 sits parked on a rough surface
1963 Ford F-250|Ford
With 4x4 capability as well as over 200 horse power getting here by 1965, 4th generation Ford vehicles proceeded the march to the modern-day age. Super Duty vehicles had made their debut in 1958, as well as this shot from 1963 is a look at the design year's Ford F-250. Two fronts lights returned for those who ran by evening.
9. Debut of the Ranger
1967 Ford F-100 Ranger
1967 F-100 Ranger|Ford
Starting with the F-Series's 5th generation, vehicle consumers might pick from 3 trims: base, customized, as well as Ranger. Going with the Ranger indicated grassy floorings, a basic chrome grille, and also more comfy seats. By 1970, prior to 5th generation models finished their run, a 4th trim (XLT) entered the picture.
10. A lot more style as well as functionality
1971 Ford F-250 sits parked in the lawn
1971 Ford F-250|Ford
Rules mandated side reflectors starting in 1968, and this durable model from 1971 shows how Ford rolled that right into a badging possibility. An upgraded V8 engine now delivered up to 220 horse power. Meanwhile, the unrelenting restyling of the grille continued apace.
11. A giant 6th generation
1973 Ford F-Series pickup
View of a Ford F-Series on the Louisville, Kentucky production line, circa 1973|Ford
Sixth-generation (1973 to 1979) F-Series trucks were amazing for a variety of reasons, but we'll begin with the arrival of SuperCab for 1974. Dodge had actually originated the pick-up with added seats, as well as Ford really felt required to react. Yet one more V8 engine went into the picture too. Yet America's favorite vehicle was about to be birthed.
12. Birth of the Ford F-150
A red 1975 Ford F-150 sits parked in front of a building and construction website
1975 Ford F-150|Ford
Why was the F-150 required? By the mid-1970s, customers found themselves captured between the not-quite-capable-enough F-100 as well as the mighty F-250. This version bridged the gap starting in 1975, and about one third of F-Series sales were made up of F-150s that year. While America commemorated its bicentennial in 1976, F-Series vehicles started their run atop the sales listing that remains to now.
13. The crucial 7th generation
1980 Ford F-150 Ranger rests parked atop a mountain
F-150 Ranger from the 1980 design year|Ford
To put the 7th generation's effect in perspective, we rely on historian James W. Wagner. "The 1980 design was a breakthrough generation," Wagner said. "It was all new-- probably the greatest modification in 40 years-- and also had a strong sob story with the twin I-beam front suspension. It seems from that factor on, things truly went Ford's means as far as vehicles were worried."
14. Customized packages and also death to F-100
F-150 from 1985 sits parked in front of a lake
By 1985, a brand-new concentrate on style as well as-- a lot more significantly-- lifestyle had actually gone into the picture|Ford
Beginning in the very early 1980s, Ford truck consumers might style their associate custom-made paint packages. The new concentrate on way of living prompted marketing pictures similar to this one showcasing a family members delighting in a day by the lake. These trucks provided at the office and also were comfortable enough to appreciate after hrs, Ford recommended via its marketing. Note the blue-oval symbol making its opening night on the grille. F-100 production ended in 1983.
15. Go into eighth generation
Historical shot of 1989 Ford F-150
1989 Ford F-150|Ford
Beginning with the 1987 version year, Ford F-Series trucks had entered their 8th generation. Wraparound car parking lights and conventional fuel shot were two key upgrades. F-350 and larger versions became part of a brand-new Super Task line. The freshly streamlined grille delighted in a long term via the complying with generations.
16. New styling cues after 1991
A black 1991 Ford F-150
1991 Ford F-150 with 'Nite' package|Ford
In the last years of the F-Series's eighth generation, vehicle fans obtained brand-new performance as well as designing packages. Among them, the heavy-duty solution bundle made the job for snow plows easier. For 1991, the "Nite" plan provided a blacked-out F-150 for customers seeking to attract attention from the myriads of Ford vehicle owners.
17. The high-performance F-150
A red 1993 Ford F-150 SVT Lightning
1993 SVT F-150 Lightning|Ford
Since 1992, when the ninth generation F-Series made its launching, Ford had appreciated well over a years on top of America's sales charts. Normally, the car manufacturer saw a chance to experiment as well as launched an efficiency design with the Unique Car Team in its inaugural year. Utilizing its remarkable handling, this 1993 SVT F-150 Lightning might equal or beat a 1993 Ford Mustang GT in long track runs.
18. A lot more 9th generation adjustments
1996 F-150 SuperCab rests parked atop a mountain
1996 F-150 SuperCab|Ford
On top of brand-new performance models, the Ford F-Series additionally obtained significant aesthetic upgrades in its ninth generation Designers were looking to interest yet one more young generation of customers. An unique Eddie Bauer trim went into the picture in 1995.
19. F-Series marks its 10th generation.
Ford F-150 from the 1998 version year
1998 Ford F-150|Ford
Major modifications shown up with the 10th generation of F-Series trucks that started in 1997. The nameplate commemorated its 50th wedding anniversary in 1998 and also (to note its modernity) Ford went down chrome from the grille as well as added even more contours than these vehicles had shown off in decades. Sturdy trucks got their very own F-Series Super Task line starting in 1999.
20. F-Series for the 21st century
2004 Ford F-Series
2004 Ford F-Series makes its debut|Mike Heffner/Getty Images
The initial redesign of the new millennium brought a brand new platform for the F-150 (2004) and, finally, for the Super Responsibility vehicles (2008 ). Developers had highlighted even greater comfort as well as designing in the front runner pickup for the 11th generation This design cycle had a very brief run, and also ended at the beginning of the Great Economic crisis.
21. A brawnier 12th generation.
A F-150 pickup sits on the assembly flooring at the Kansas City Ford Setting up plant October 2, 2008 in Claycomo, Missouri.
2009 Ford F-150|Larry W. Smith/Getty Images
Wartime America appeared to exert its impact on the 12th generation of F-Series trucks. There was no doubt the intensity of the 2009 F-150 with its strong grille and also aggressive position. Midway through the version cycle (2011 ), Ford confronted soaring gas expenses with the initial 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine in the F-150.
22. Super Task expands in online reputation
2012 Ford F-Series Super Obligation
2012 Ford F-Series Super Responsibility|Ford
Towards the end of the 12th generation of F-Series vehicles, Ford Super Task versions veered close to excellence. The 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbo diesel motor came to be a choice in 2011. A few years later on, with several decades in guides and also numerous models on the road, iSeeCars.com counted extra F-250 Super Responsibility trucks over 200,000 miles than any other vehicle.
23.2002 ford f150 raptor grill The light weight aluminum F-150
A red redesigned Ford F-150
Platinum-trim 2015 Ford F-150|Ford
If you consider significant automaker gambles, the 13th generation F-150 is near the top of the list. After numerous decades atop the sales graphes, Ford left steel for a light weight aluminum vehicle body-- as well as it worked. The new F-150 ended up being the first pickup to get a luxury NHTSA safety rating and an Insurance coverage Institute for Highway Security Top Safety Select classification. Since the outcomes remain in, we can state Ford toenailed the redesign and only enhanced the track record of its flagship truck.
24. The post-apocalyptic warrior
2017 Ford Raptor
2017 Ford Raptor|Micah Wright/Autos Cheat Sheet
If you find yourself stuck when traveling after an armageddon, we suggest flagging down a 2017 Raptor. Ford took the concept of an efficiency pickup as well as kept up it right here, outfitting Raptor with 510 pound-feet of torque as well as considerable indoor conveniences. Nevertheless, we'll just explain the very appealing aesthetic signs. We can not think of a cooler-looking pickup when driving.
25. The 2018 version
Ford F-150 for the 2018 version year
2018 Ford F-150|Ford
One century after Ford debuted its first Model T vehicle, the 2018 F-150 went into the scene. New progressed collision defense innovation as well as the F-150's ideal towing capacities were crucial upgrades. On the other hand, standard start-stop functions made it a lot more cost-effective than any kind of previous model. While we're not exactly sure regarding the next century of truck production, Ford closed its very first 100 years on duty in style.
