Ford F-150 Light Truck Weight and Manufacturing Cost Analysis, 1980 and 1979

摘要

This report covers the results of a weight and cost analysis of selected Ford F-150 light truck components. The objectives were to acquire baseline data on automotive technology being employed to further fuel economy improvements. 171 components were selected for the cost analysis which provided a basis for comparing weight and costs of HSLA, aluminum and fiber glass reinforced plastics as alternate material for those parts where such substitutions would be practical. The study identified and compared component weight savings and cost per pound saved. A weight comparison of the 4-wheel drive component between the 1979 and 1980 models was also performed as well as an analysis of the weight propagational effects due to increases in vehicle GVWR. The weight propagation analysis indicated which components changed in weight with increased GVWR, drive train and suspension, and the relative magnitude. Material substitution analysis resulted in a cost savings ($0.01/lb.) to ($0.44/lb.) for HSLA, and a cost penalty of $0.28/lb. to $4.98/lb. for aluminum and $1.44/lb. to $13.81/lb. for FRP, for each pound of weight saved. 4-wheel drive weight reduction from 1979 to 1980 was 79 lbs. The net penalty for GVWR increase for 1980 F-150 trucks is 290 lbs.