Ford's Lightweight Concept Car Shows How New F-150 Could Affect Lineup

GLENWOOD SPRINGS, 06/13/2014 / SubmitMyPR /

When it goes on sale this fall, the redesigned 2015 Ford F-150 will become the first full-size pickup truck to feature a lightweight aluminum body, and it appears that innovation could have big implications for other vehicle segments as well. Ford recently unveiled its Lightweight Concept car, which not only incorporates high-strength aluminum and high-strength steel like the forthcoming F-150, but also carbon fiber and magnesium, hinting at what the automaker might have in store for its future high-volume production vehicles.

Though it is based on the 2013 Ford Fusion midsize sedan, the Ford Lightweight Concept weighs about 25 percent less than that production model thanks to its advanced materials, which bring the car's mass closer to that of the Ford Fiesta subcompact. Ford calls its research and development with mixed materials "light-weighting," and its goal is to reduce the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of its vehicles while controlling the added costs related to new or nascent production methods in the auto industry. As America's best-selling vehicle, the F-150's extensive use of aluminum for the 2015 model year marks a crucial step for Ford in bringing light-weighting to the masses.

"Automakers are facing pressure from the EPA to improve fuel economy, but they're also seeing demand from buyers who want all these new technologies that can instead make cars heavier and less efficient," said Steve Nilsson, general manager of Glenwood Springs Ford, a Colorado Ford dealership near Grand Junction. "The new Ford F-150 is a great example of how all those demands can be met without sacrificing a vehicle's primary strength, which in this case is unmatched capability."

Dropping up to 700 pounds with the increased use of high-strength steel in its frame and the debut of high-strength aluminum alloys in its body, the 2015 Ford F-150 is expected to be more fuel efficient while towing and hauling more than its predecessor. Meanwhile, buyers will benefit from several segment-first technology features, including a 360-degree camera view, LED headlamps and taillamps, a remote tailgate that can be automatically lowered by pressing a button on the key fob and an available all-new 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine.

About Glenwood Springs Ford:
For more than three decades, Glenwood Springs Ford has been dedicated to building lasting relationships with Colorado drivers. Whether customers prefer rugged, capable vehicles like the Ford F-150 or stylish, fuel-efficient cars like the Ford Fiesta, the dealership employs a knowledgeable sales staff and expert technicians to ensure they leave satisfied. An easy drive from Aspen, Avon, Edwards or Vail, Glenwood Springs Ford is located at 55 Storm King Road in Glenwood Springs, Colo. Customers can also reach them by phone at 888-476-3624, browse their entire inventory at www.glenwoodspringsford.com or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GlenwoodSpringsFord.