Ford F-150 Stuns with Aluminum Body: Cutting edge materials and a unique frame design reduce weight without sacrificing durability

摘要

The 2015 Ford F-150, which debuted at the Detroit Auto Show, uses cutting edge materials and a unique frame design. Starting with the fully boxed frame, Ford engineers increased the use of high-strength 70,000-psi steel - from 23% to 77% of the frame - to improve stiffness and durability while reducing weight. The new frame is up to 60 lbs. lighter than the current frame. "Our frame team developed exclusive, industry first engineering techniques to create a truck foundation that is lighter without sacrificing toughness," says John Caris, F-150 lead frame engineer.