2021 Ford F-150: world’s biggest selling pick-up gets major overhaul

The 2021 Ford F-150 will be able to be driven hands-free in certain conditions while a hidden camera makes sure the driver is paying attention, as one of the world’s biggest selling vehicles takes a step towards autonomous driving.

It will also make a step towards zero emissions driving, with a hybrid version of this model arriving about two years ahead of a full electric model, the company said.

These are just some of the headline acts for the first major update to this generation of North America’s biggest selling pick-up.

The 2021 Ford F-150 has a bold new look – every body panel is new – a wider footprint, and a choice of 11 unique grilles bordered by massive C-shaped daytime running lights that extend into the front bumper. 

Ford says the new F-150 has been loaded with technology that improves safety, practicality and drive-ability, and even has a trailer reversing mode to save embarrassment – and time – at boat ramps and caravan parks.

As ever, the 2021 Ford F-150 will be at home on a worksite or in a fancy driveway.

Workhorse models have the option of plugging more equipment into power sockets in the pick-up bed, top end models have front seats that recline to a fully flat 180 degrees – business-class style – so occupants can take a break on long haul drives.

The automatic gear level can be stowed and the console folds over to create a flat workspace to operate a laptop when stopped.

For now, the F-150 remains a US-only model and is not planned for Australian Ford showrooms.

However, the next generation Ford Ranger ute – due in late 2021 or early 2022 – may get some of the cabin technology, including Ford’s latest infotainment system, as well as a digital instrument display.

While it remains to be seen whether the Ford Ranger screens will be as large as those on the new Ford F-150, the technology behind it is a possibility.

The 2021 Ford F-150 has new storage under the back seat, and optional side steps with built in sensors can retract and be lowered at the swing of a foot.

Although it looks enormous, Ford claims the new model is more aerodynamic than before.

The 2021 Ford F-150 is due to go into production later this year ahead of a showroom arrival late this year and early 2021.

Here’s a link to the full video presentation:

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