The Ford F-150 Story: King of the Hill

America’s top-selling truck heads for its 50th anniversary

The Ford F-150 is a true American icon, and the best-selling truck will celebrate its 50th birthday in 2025.

Over five decades, the F-150 has cemented itself as a part of everyday life in the United States, aided by various model changes and continual updates. This evolution has helped it remain the nation’s favorite pickup.

Although Ford’s F-Series truck range is vast, we have focused here specifically on the F-150. Let’s get to work!

1948 Ford F-1

The origins of the Ford F-150 stretch back all the way to the Model T. In 1917 Ford released the Model TT, a dedicated truck with heavy duty construction.

Jumping forward to 1948 would see the first F-Series models launched, with Ford creating a new chassis specifically for truck use. A one-piece windshield, integrated headlights, and even optional windshield washers made it considerably advanced for the time.

1975 Ford F-150 Ranger

Ford would continue the F-Series through multiple iterations, launching the sixth-generation model for 1973. Against a backdrop of oil shortages and tighter emissions regulations, Ford added the F-150 model to the range for the 1975 model year.

Billed as a heavy duty version of the F-100 half-ton pickup, Ford promised the F-150 would have the comfort of its smaller brother and almost the capacity of the F-250. Tougher suspension gave the F-150 a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of over 6,000 lb. Engine options ranged from the 300-cubic inch six-cylinder, through to the 460-cubic inch V-8.

1978 Ford F-150 Ranger

Ford updated the F-Series in 1978, replacing the previous split front grille with a new one-piece item. Buyers could opt to have the grille finished in chrome, with matching chrome headlight surrounds.

The option of a new Ranger Lariat trim level also became available, offering two-tone paintwork and deluxe upholstery inside. This marked the first use of the Lariat name on an F-Series truck, with special badges added to signify its status.

1978 Ford F-150 Flareside

Along with the Regular Cab model, buyers could opt for the F-150 in extended SuperCab form. Ford continued to offer the choice of Flareside and Styleside pickup beds, while the 300-cubic inch six-cylinder remained the default engine.

Being the late 1970s, a ‘Free Wheeling’ package could be found on the options list. This meant rainbow stripes for Styleside models, and pinstripes for Flareside versions. Adding to the ‘70s flavor, a factory-installed CB radio could be picked, too.

1980 Ford F-150 Custom Styleside

The launch of the F-150 had helped Ford become the leader in the pickup market, with a new seventh-generation model intended to cement its position. With an all-new chassis and body, the 1980 F-Series marked the first total redesign since 1965.

Although the F-Series had begun as a work-oriented truck, Ford had already sensed the opportunity to create a family friendly pickup. Changes, like the addition of extra sound deadening, were intended to make the F-Series easier to live with.

1980 Ford F-150 Ranger

Aerodynamics were a consideration for the design of the front grille and headlights, with Ford also looking to save weight beneath the bodywork. Plastic liners for the wheel wells were used, with Ford boasting that such improvements created the most fuel-efficient range of American-built trucks.

Engine choices for the F-150 began with the 4.9-liter six-cylinder, and peaked with the 5.8-liter V-8. Four-wheel drive versions of the F-150 gained Twin-Traction Beam independent front suspension with the new model.

1985 Ford F-150 XLT Lariat SuperCab

By 1985 Ford was feeling even more confident about the F-150, having ditched the F-100 offering at the end of the 1983 model year. Now deeper into the 1980s, Ford updated the interior of the F-Series with less wood grain and new modern trim. Lariat badging also returned, with the XLT Lariat now the range-topper.

Under the hood, Ford began to introduce V-8 engines with computer-controlled electronic fuel injection. The new EFi 5.0-liter Windsor V-8 delivered 190 hp, although performance fans were still drawn to the carbureted 5.8-liter V-8 with its 210 hp.

1987 Ford F-150 Regular Cab

With the end of the 1980s fast approaching, Ford gave the F-Series range a considerable update for the 1987 model year. Although the chassis underneath remained the same, the new bodywork and comprehensive interior overhaul saw it treated as a separate eighth-generation truck.

The softer lines at the front end included new headlights that allowed the bulbs to be changed without needing tools. At the back, the rear fenders gained a subtler look, aimed at making the F-Series appear more streamlined. The Flareside option would also disappear at the end of the 1987 model year, too.

1987 Ford F-150 SuperCab

One of the biggest advancements for the 1987 F-Series came with the standard fitment of rear anti-lock brakes. This was noted as being an ‘industry first’ for an American-built truck, with Ford talking glowingly about the computer-controlled braking.

The new model also meant Ford continued to increase the range of engines with fuel injection as standard. By the end of the eighth-generation, all gasoline engines offered in the F-150 would have ditched carburettors.

Joining them on the scrapheap was the ‘three-on-the-tree’ manual transmission, replaced with a conventional four-speed as the F-150’s standard gearbox.

1992 Ford F-150 XLT Styleside

With the F-150 continuing to be the best-selling pickup truck in the United States, Ford rolled out another major update for the 1992 model year. The pursuit of aerodynamics meant the front became rounder, featuring wraparound headlights and a new grille. Aero-design side mirrors were fitted specially to the F-150.

Inside saw major changes, with a new dashboard layout appearing more car-like than before. An AM radio with digital clock and two speakers was standard for all, as was a new power outlet for charging accessories.

Power options remained the same, with the 4.9-liter six-cylinder as the base engine.

1992 Ford F-150 Flareside

Making a return for the new ninth-generation F-150 was the option of the Flareside truck bed. Unlike before, the Flareside option was pitched as a lifestyle choice, aimed at those who wanted “a truck with a personality as unique as yours”.

Color options included the bold Iris option, while the interior included a leather-wrapped steering wheel and an AM/FM stereo. The Flareside bed was offered for both the Regular and SuperCab models, and remains one of the more collectible versions of the F-150.

1992 Ford F-150 Nite Edition

Ahead of the curve for ‘Black Edition’ cars and trucks by around two decades, Ford had launched the Nite Edition version of the F-150 in 1991. The option carried over for the new ninth-generation, and could be picked for all body styles.

Picking the Nite Edition meant Raven Black exterior paintwork combined with a special body stripe. Dished alloy wheels, a handling package, and the 5.0-liter V-8 with a five-speed manual transmission, were all part of the deal. Despite the appeal, the Nite Edition would be dropped at the end of the 1992 model year.

1993 Ford F-150 SVT Lightning

Few will have missed the Nite Edition, as the 1993 model year was all about the SVT Lightning for the Ford F-150. Created by Ford’s Special Vehicle Team, the Lightning packed an upgraded version of the 5.8-liter V-8, with 240 hp and 340 lb-ft of torque.

A four-speed automatic transmission, with modified ratios was standard. It allowed the Lightning to run a quarter-mile sprint in under 16 seconds, and 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds. A bespoke suspension setup was added, with Formula 1 legend Jackie Stewart involved in tuning the handling.

A deep front splitter incorporated a set of driving lights, with 17-inch wheels completing the makeover. Sports seats, and a 120 mph speedometer, could be found inside. Ford would sell more than 5,200 Lightnings in 1993.

1995 Ford F-150 XLT Eddie Bauer

Continual updates to the F-150 saw revisions made for the 1994 model year, such as the standard fitment of a driver’s airbag and side-impact protection. The following year would see the F-150 gain a true luxury edition, wearing the Eddie Bauer badge first used on the Bronco a decade earlier.

Two-tone exterior paintwork was the standout attraction, combined with a set of deep-dish alloy wheels for extra visual bite. Inside, the Eddie Bauer model gained air conditioning, plus power adjustment for almost everything.

1997 Ford F-150 SuperCab

With the F-Series now firmly positioned as the dominant force in the pickup market, Ford launched the all-new tenth-generation F-150 model with a radical styling direction. The new F-150 marked a split with the heavy-duty F-250 and F-350 trucks, with these now aimed squarely at commercial users.

Along with a brand-new platform and styling, the 1997 F-150 also gained a range of new engines. The 4.2-liter Essex V-6 marked the starting point, followed by 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter versions of the Triton V-8. Launched with Regular or SuperCab options, buyers could also choose between Flareside and Styleside truck beds. These changes all helped the F-150 secure the 1996 North American Truck of the Year prize.

1998 Ford F-150 NASCAR Edition

To celebrate Ford becoming the official truck of NASCAR, and the 50th anniversary of the stock car series itself, a limited-edition F-150 was launched in 1998. A total of 3,000 F-150 NASCAR Editions were made, aimed at buyers in the southeast of the USA.

All came in Regular Cab layout, using a standard 4.6-liter V-8. Black paint, with special NASCAR graphics, 16-inch wheels, and a Roush front splitter were all included.

1999 Ford F-150 SVT Lightning

The return of the SVT Lightning to the Ford F-150 created major excitement in 1999. Sold only in Regular Cab layout, with a Flareside bed, the F-150 gained a dramatic exterior makeover to become the new Lightning.

Beneath the hood was a supercharged 5.4-liter V-8, delivering 360 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. Later models would gain even more power, but even the 1999 version could accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 6.2 seconds.

Lowered suspension, and Goodyear Eagle F1 tires on 18-inch wheels, helped the Lightning handle as well as it went.

2000 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson

Along with minor tweaks to the F-150, the biggest news for 2000 was the launch of the Harley Davidson edition. The product of a five-year agreement between Ford and the motorbike manufacturer, the Harley Davidson model was offered solely in SuperCab Flareside configuration with a 5.4-liter V-8.

Forget picking colors, as black was the only one available. A set of bespoke alloy wheels marked the first time Ford had fitted 20-inch items to the F-150, with the suspension lowered, too.

Inside were ebony black seats, chrome stalks for the steering column, and a center console designed to look like the saddle bag of a Harley Davidson.

2001 Ford F-150 King Ranch SuperCrew

The following model year would be significant for two key changes to the F-150. First up was the launch of the SuperCrew body, offering four full-size passenger doors.

Helping promote the SuperCrew body was a new range-topping King Ranch model. Developed with the eponymous cattle ranch in Texas, Ford was targeting high-end customers with a luxurious makeover of the F-150.

Bespoke two-tone paintwork could be found outside, with the inside clad in acres of leather. The seats were embossed with SuperCrew and King Ranch logos, and rear-seat passengers gained an additional storage tray.

2002 Lincoln Blackwood

Ford was determined to bring upmarket buyers to the pickup truck sector, launching the Lincoln Blackwood for 2002. Based upon the SuperCrew F-150 body, the Blackwood gained a unusual bed design, finished in faux black wood and aluminum striping.

A power tonneau cover, split tailgate, and carpeted truck bed floor were meant to make the Blackwood feel luxurious. However, these design ideas reduced the actual practical uses for the Blackwood.

Lincoln would build just 3,300 examples, before canceling the Blackwood before the 2002 model year had even finished.

2003 Ford F-150 Heritage Edition

Never one to miss out on a celebration, 2003 marked the 100th anniversary of Ford trucks. Naturally, this called for a special version of the F-150, with the Heritage Edition the finished offering.

The Heritage Edition came solely in SuperCab configuration, wearing two-tone paintwork and a chrome front grille. Five-spoke alloy wheels, chrome side steps, and 100th anniversary badging were included, too.

Inside, contoured seat trim was color-matched to the exterior, with F-150 floor mats being the finishing touch.

2003 Ford F-150 SVT Lightning Concept

Coinciding with the reveal of the new eleventh-generation F-150, Ford used the 2003 Detroit Auto Show to display an SVT Lightning Concept. An enhanced version of the supercharged 5.4-liter V-8 was said to produce 500 hp, and was connected to a six-speed manual transmission. A patented Super Cooler feature used the air conditioning system to help chill the air entering the supercharger.

The lack of a compatible automatic transmission, and performance worries, meant the Lightning never became a reality. At least Dodge took the Super Cooler idea to use in the SRT Challenger Demon, after Ford’s patent expired.

2004 Ford F-150 SuperCrew

Although there may not have been an SVT Lightning model, the 2004 F-150 was comprehensively updated with a new look inside and out. Bigger bodywork, and a stretched passenger compartment, aimed to make the F-150 even more useful than before.

Body choices remained the same, with buyers able to pick from Regular, SuperCab, and SuperCrew configurations. Engine options also remained static, but the 5.4-liter Triton V-8 gained a power increase to 300 hp.

However, the upgraded interior was the major standout feature, with Lariat trim being truly luxurious. Once again, the F-150 collected the North American Truck of the Year Award in 2004.

2006 Lincoln Mark LT

Ford was notably persistent in wanting an all-out luxurious Lincoln version of the F-150, trying again for the 2006 model year. Designed to challenge the Cadillac Escalade EXT, Ford had high hopes that the Mark LT would perform better than the previous Blackwood.

Using the SuperCrew body, and fitted with the 5.4-liter V-8, the Mark LT boasted a leather-clad interior with plenty of metal detailing.

More than 10,000 were sold in the first year, with over 12,000 the following year. Yet, Lincoln decided to pull the plug, again, for the American market, at the end of 2008.

2008 Ford F-150 Foose Edition

A collaboration with hot rod designer Chip Foose led to the creation of a new special-edition F-150 for 2008. Featuring the supercharged 5.4-liter V-8 engine, it became the most-powerful F-150 on sale, with 450 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque.

The exterior received a comprehensive Foose Design makeover, with flared fenders, 22-inch wheels, and a unique stripe package. Ford Racing supplied a performance exhaust system, with Eibach springs and Sachs dampers added for the suspension.

All of the planned 500 units came with an interior upholstered in leather, with embroidered headrests wearing the Chip Foose logo.

2009 Ford F-150 FX4 SuperCab

With more than 33 million trucks sold since 1948, keeping the F-150 at the top of its game meant an overhaul for the 2009 model year.

Evolutionary styling on the outside disguised a platform that boasted greater strength and rigidity. This meant improved towing and payload capacities across the F-150 range, while the interior became more spacious than before.

Ford finally ditched the V-6 engine, with two flavors of 4.6-liter V-8, and the 5.4-liter V-8, the powertrain options. The largest engine was now compatible with E85 ethanol fuel.

These changes saw F-150 claim the North American Truck of the Year prize for 2009.

2009 Ford F-150 Platinum SuperCrew

Ford’s constant pursuit of a luxury pickup truck concept remained. With the Lincoln Mark LT now discontinued for North American buyers, a new range-topping Platinum trim was introduced for the twelfth-generation truck.

On the outside this meant a bold chrome grille with mesh detailing, chrome side mirror caps, chrome bumpers, and 20-inch chrome wheels. Power-deployed running boards, not finished in chrome, were added as well. Leather upholstery could be found inside, with Rippled Lacrosse Ash wood grain accents and brushed aluminum trim.

2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCab

Introduced for the 2010 model year, the F-150 gained a new performance truck with the launch of the SVT Raptor. Unlike the previous Lightning models, the Raptor was focussed on delivering high-speed off-road antics, with standard four-wheel drive and trick suspension from Fox Racing.

The 2010 Raptor was launched in SuperCab layout, wearing a front grille with Ford lettering, wider fenders, and a composite hood. A huge skid plate was fitted for extra protection, with the 17-inch wheels clad with 35-inch all-terrain tires. A 5.4-liter V-8, with 310 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, was standard. Buyers could upgrade to a 6.2-liter V-8, with 411 hp and 434 lb-ft of torque.

2011 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCrew

To help involve all the family in off-road fun, Ford released a SuperCrew version of the SVT Raptor for 2011. The formula remained unchanged from the SuperCab model, although the longer wheelbase was said to offer improved ride comfort.

With no replacement for displacement, Ford dispensed with the base 5.4-liter V-8 engine. It meant all Raptors now came fitted with the 6.2-liter V-8 and a six-speed automatic transmission. A new Ingot Silver exterior color, along with a different graphics package, helped keep the Raptor looking fresh.

2014 Ford F-150 Tremor EcoBoost NASCAR

The 2011 update had seen Ford begin to offer the turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 for the F-150. With 365 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, the boosted engine was able to outgun the standard 5.0-liter V-8, but promised improved gas mileage.

For 2014, Ford combined the EcoBoost engine with the new Tremor package, creating a truck with on-road performance in mind. Pitched as the ‘hot rod’ F-150, the Tremor could be ordered only in short-bed Regular Cab configuration. NASCAR picked the F-150 Tremor to appear as the official pace truck of the Michigan National Guard 200 race in August 2013.

2015 Ford F-150 Lariat FX4 SuperCrew

The bodywork of the 2015 F-150 may not have appeared radically different, but what it was  made from signaled a massive change. Aircraft-grade aluminum was used for the truck bed and cab, with only the firewall not replaced with the lightweight material.

Ford treated the chassis to more high-strength steel, aimed at improving rigidity and robustness. Despite this, the new aluminum bodywork still meant an overall weight saving of around 700 lb. The EcoBoost revolution continued, with a smaller 2.7-liter turbocharged V-6 (offering 325 hp) added to the range. As had become tradition, the F-150 collected another North American Truck of the Year trophy.

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor SuperCab

Turbocharging was also the order of the day of the new F-150 Raptor, launched in 2017. With the 6.2-liter V-8 dropped, the performance truck now featured a modified version of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6.

This meant a jump in power compared to the old model, with 450 hp and 510 lb-ft available. Included with this was a new ten-speed automatic transmission, which would later be rolled out across the rest of the F-150 range. Larger Fox Racing shock absorbers, new wheels, and a four-wheel drive system with torque-on-demand, were included.

2018 Ford F-150 XLT SuperCab PowerStroke

With the towing battle between pickup truck manufacturers intensifying, Ford launched the first diesel-powered F-150 for 2018. The 3.0-liter PowerStroke V-6 turbocharged diesel was a new design, said to deliver hauling ability and fuel economy.

An output of 250 hp and 440 lb-ft made the new PowerStroke competitive with the rival Ram 1500 EcoDiesel. Ford’s offering could tow 11,400 lb, and carry a payload of more than 2,000 lb.

2019 Ford F-150 Electric Prototype

Although the diesel F-150 packed an impressive towing capacity, Ford demonstrated the power of an electric pickup with a prototype model in 2019.

Proving that an electric F-150 was ‘Built Ford Tough’ like a regular model, a towing challenge with a train weighing more than 1.25 million lb, was set. The all-electric F-150 accomplished the feat with ease, paving the way for the F-150 Lightning model.

2021 Ford F-150 Lariat Sport SuperCrew

Despite the challenges of the Coronavirus pandemic, Ford was still able to launch an all-new F-150 range in 2020. As with every new edition, the Blue Oval promised that this would be the toughest version of the F-150 to date.

Packed with new technology, the 2021 F-150 continues with extensive aluminum bodywork and a chassis that is said to be stronger than ever. Buyers can even receive over-the-air updates for the software inside the new truck.

Also new was a hybrid version of the F-150. This combines the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 with an electric motor, offering an additional 47 hp and improving fuel economy.

2021 Ford F-150 Police Responder

With the Ford F-150 a long-running favorite of police forces across the United States, the new 2021 model was the opportunity to update the blue-light special. Noted as being the only pursuit-rated pickup truck, the 2021 Police Responder became even faster.

Offered with a 400 hp EcoBoost 3.5-liter V-6, the F-150 Police Responder is capable of reaching 120 mph. Helping this are Goodyear tires developed especially for the police truck, allowing the F-150 to run fast both off-road and on asphalt.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor SuperCrew

With the performance off-road truck market becoming more competitive, the F-150 Raptor needed to up its game. Fortunately, Ford was confident it could make the new 2021 Raptor deliver.

Helping it perform in the dirt is a new five-link suspension setup, which features Fox Racing adaptable shock absorbers. Ford also added the option of 37-inch tires, while a 360-degree trail camera allows drivers to spot hazards when off-roading.

A third-generation 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 powers the new Raptor, producing 450 horsepower.

President Biden visits Ford’s Rouge Electric Vehicle Center

Just how important is the launch of an electric Ford F-150? Important enough for the President of the United States to make a special trip to Dearborn, Michigan.

President Biden took a tour of the Ford facility that will build the F-150 Lightning, and even had the chance to drive a prototype. He remarked on the impressive performance of the Lightning to the assembled media.

The visit was also used to launch the president’s new electric vehicle strategy. Included in the American Jobs Plan is billions in funding to improve EV infrastructure across the United States, and incentives to help drivers make the switch to electric power.

2022 Ford F-150 Lightning

Launched at a dramatic open-air event in Dearborn, Michigan, Ford has bold ambitions for the F-150 Lightning. Billed as more than just an additional model in the range, Ford believes the Lightning will demonstrate the future of the Ford company.

New technology will see the Lightning use onboard scales to calculate the weight of the payload being carried, adjusting the predicted battery range accordingly. Offered solely in SuperCrew configuration, the Lightning will be offered in XLT, Lariat, and range-topping Platinum trim.

2022 Ford F-150 Lightning

The level of performance is likely to hold plenty of appeal to Lightning customers. All versions come with a dual-motor setup, giving four-wheel drive for all versions. A standard-range battery model will deliver 426 hp, with an extended-range version able to deliver 563 hp. However, both models will be endowed with 775 lb-ft of torque, making a 0-60 mph time of less than 5 seconds possible!

Range for the standard battery model has an official EPA estimate of 230 miles, with the extended-range model stretching this to 300 miles. Ford states that buyers will have access to a vast charging network through the FordPass app.

2022 Ford F-150 Lightning

Practicality is also likely to be a major attraction for the F-150 Lightning.

Picking the standard-range battery model will allow the electric truck to carry a 2,000 lb payload, and tow up to 7,700 lb. The extended-range model will stretch the towing potential to 10,000 lb. With no engine, a new ‘frunk’ can accommodate 400 liters of cargo.

The F-150 Lightning has been designed to transition between charging, and feeding power back to a home. An extended-range battery model is said to be able to provide emergency domestic power for up to ten days if needed.

Production to double for 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning

Ford fans have clearly been impressed with the F-150 Lightning, with plans announced to double production capacity at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, Michigan.

After almost 200,000 initial reservations, Ford will produce 150,000 Lightning trucks each year. The company is also having to stagger the order process for customers, in order to manage the level of interest in the electric pickup.

Life begins at 40 million

The 40 millionth Ford F-Series truck left the production line in January 2022. Built at the Dearborn Truck Plant in Michigan, the landmark pickup was a 2022 F-150 Tremor, fittingly finished in Iconic Silver. However, the special truck will not be displayed in a museum. Instead, it is heading to a customer in Texas and will be put to work, as ‘that’s what Ford trucks do’.

The start of 2022 also saw the F-Series line of pickups become the best-selling trucks for the 45th year in a row, and America’s best-selling vehicle for the 40th year.

F-150 Lightning full production starts in Dearborn

Ford has finally started full production of the F-150 Lightning at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center. Due to overwhelming demand, Ford had to suspend new customer orders, leaving it to work through the huge number of existing reservations.

The F-150 Lightning will contribute to Ford’s major plans for electrification. By 2026, the company wants electric models to account for one-third of all its vehicles, reaching half by 2030.

A factory as high-tech as the F-150 Lightning itself

Ford has invested $950 million, and created 750 new jobs, to build the F-150 Lightning. This has included designing the very first Ford factory to operate without traditional in-floor conveyor lines.

Instead of the fixed assembly line idea that dates back to Henry Ford, the F-150 Lightning is built using robotic Autonomous Guided Vehicles instead. These can move quickly between workstations, and allow for quicker production changes when needed.

Clearly, even after more than 40 million trucks, and an electric revolution, Ford continues to innovate with the F-150.

2023 Ford F-150 Heritage Edition

In 2023, Ford reached the important milestone of 75 years of F-Series truck production. To help celebrate this anniversary, customers could specify XLT-grade F-150s with a special Heritage Edition package.

With a deliberate nod to the F-Series trucks of the 1970s and 1980s, the Heritage Edition has a classic two-tone color scheme. However, Ford sadly overlooked the retro brown and green paint options from the archives.

On the inside, Heritage Edition models came with slate gray and black trim, with unique seat covers and an embossed center console lid. A white ‘75 Years’ logo is found on the upper windscreen, and also appears on the center infotainment startup screen.

2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R

Inspired by off-road desert racers, the F-150 Raptor R is the most powerful version ever of Ford’s performance pickup. It also helped quieten the enthusiasts who spent years shouting for the return of a V-8 Raptor.

Underneath the hood is a supercharged 5.2-liter Predator V-8 engine, previously found in the Shelby GT500 Mustang. With 700 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque, this is a seriously fast truck.

Other features include long-travel Fox Live Valve shock absorbers, 37-inch tires and class-leading ground clearance. A dual exhaust system with several volume options reminds you that this is the V-8 version.

2024 Ford F-150

After more than 75 years, updating the F-150 must seem like a never-ending task. For the 2024 model year, changes included a redesigned front end with standard LED lighting and a reprofiled grille.

Ford also introduced the option of a Black Appearance Package for all F-150 models from STX through to Lariat trim.

The most significant change comes in terms of engine options, with the PowerBoost Hybrid costing the same as the 3.5-liter EcoBoost. Ford no longer wants F-150 buyers to pay a premium for choosing the electrified powertrain, and aims to make the PowerBoost the top-selling hybrid in the United States by the end of 2024.

2024 Ford F-150 Tremor

Already a popular option in the F-150 range, Ford also enhanced the Tremor model as part of the 2024 update. For those who do not need total off-road performance, the F-150 Tremor is designed for real-world use in the dirt.

A new modular front bumper joins the options list for the 2024 Tremor, which allows the fitment of a Ford Performance Warn winch kit or a bespoke light bar.

The Tremor also has a special ‘Coast-to-Coast’ grille with orange accents, plus unique running boards and exclusive body graphics.

2024 Ford F-150 Raptor

Ford did not leave the F-150 Raptor untouched as part of the 2024 model year changes. The addition of new Dual Live Valve Fox shock absorbers is intended to make the regular Raptor even more effective when bashing across the desert.

A new algorithm for the electronic suspension control is said to adjust the shock absorbers hundreds of times per second, responding to the terrain beneath the tires.

Other changes include the option of a modular front bumper that exposes more of the front tire for an aggressive stance. New exterior colors, including Shelter Green, help the 2024 F-150 Raptor make a visual statement as well.

2024 Ford F-150 Lightning Platinum Black

As if the electric F-150 Lightning was not popular enough, Ford introduced a special edition for the 2024 model year. As its name suggests, the Platinum Black package brings a monochrome finish to the Platinum trim level.

The truck’s exterior is finished in matte black, with gloss Agate Black used for the front grille and other trim details. There are also 22-inch black alloy wheels, a black Ford badge and a reflective black Lightning logo.

Premium black Nirvana leather seats, limited-edition numbering and Lightning graphics on the roof glass are part of the package, too.

2024 Ford F-150 Raptor R gets even more power

Arguably the one area the Ford F-150 Raptor R found itself lacking was in terms of horsepower. However, for the 2024 model year, Ford had found a way to extract even more performance from the Carnivore 5.2-liter supercharged V-8 engine.

The Raptor R now generates a supercar-rivaling 720 horsepower, thanks to the new High Output engine. Torque remains the same at 640 lb-ft.

A new air intake design is responsible for the extra 20 horsepower being unlocked, combined with recalibrated engine management software.

Ford F-Series continues to be a best-selling truck

More than 700,000 customers chose to purchase a Ford F-Series truck in 2023, pushing the Blue Oval’s pickup to the top of the sales charts yet again. It means the F-Series remains the best-selling truck in the United States for the 47th consecutive year.

The Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid also claimed the title of being the best-selling full-size hybrid pickup truck in the US.

In addition, the F-150 Lightning collected the prize for being the best-selling full-size electric pickup truck in 2023.

Switchgear concept sends F-150 Lightning off-road

The F-150 Lightning may be a sales success, but Ford wants to push the limits of what its electric truck can do.

Carbon fiber bodywork, 37-inch NITTO Ridge Grappler tires and a bespoke Ford Performance livery are the most obvious changes for the Lightning Switchgear.

Fox 3-inch diameter internal bypass shock absorbers give the Lightning Switchgear its epic off-road ability. Inside, Recaro bucket seats are included for good measure.

RTR Vehicles helps create electric off-roader

Another model in the Ford Performance Demonstrator roster, the Lightning Switchgear joins the SuperVan 4.0 and 4.2, Mustang Mach-E 1400, Mustang CobraJet 1400 and F-100 Eluminator. It further demonstrates the potential of electric power.

RTR Vehicles has been responsible for helping develop the Lightning Switchgear, inspired by the 2016 F-150 RTR Ultimate Fun-Haver project vehicle.

This is not simply a display concept, though. The Lightning Switchgear took part in the grueling 2024 King of the Hammers off-road race, staged in Johnson Valley, California.

Ford F-150 Lightning SuperTruck EV tackles Pikes Peak

Another adaptation of the F-150 Lightning, the SuperTruck EV combined more than 1,600 horsepower with radical aerodynamics.

With pro driver Romain Dumas behind the wheel, the SuperTruck was deployed to tackle the 102nd running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2024.

Despite a technical issue that caused Dumas to stop part-way through his final run, he still managed to set the overall fastest time, becoming the King of the Mountain – alongside the Ford F-150.

Ford F-150 loses best-selling vehicle crown

The Ford F-Series of trucks continued to be America’s favorite during 2024, with a total of 765,649 examples sold during the year.

However, the F-150 itself saw sales slip by five percent in 2024, with – a still considerable – 460,915 trucks sold.

This allowed the Toyota RAV4 to seize the crown of being the overall best-selling vehicle, although the continuing dominance of the wider F-Series means Ford can sleep easy.

The F-150’s 50th anniversary approaches

The Ford F-Series has been the nation’s best-selling truck brand for 48 years, with the F-150 a key component of that success since 1975.

“The enduring legacy of the F-Series is not just a result of our relentless pursuit of improvement, but also a reflection of the trust between Ford, our dealers and customers,” said Andrew Frick, president of Ford Blue.

“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve our customers and are committed to continuing to earn their business every single day.”

With the F-150 celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, expect to see commemorative special editions in the near future.