Ford's Epic Gamble

Hybridhunter wrote:
Ford owned Jaguar, which made entire bodies from aluminum. The hood on the F150 has been aluminum for what, a decade? Unless you think steel airplanes, motorcycles, snowmobiles and engine blocks are a great idea, I have a hard time understanding the luddite fear of aluminum.

Probably the reason for the 'Luddite' fear.....is because many posters have been around for a long time. They remember some of the initial attempts to use aluminum, in place of the more traditional materials.

The Chevy Vega's aluminum engine block (1970's)or early mating of dissimilar metals...ie; aluminum heads on cast iron blocks by many manufacturers, etc. There were some issues...some greater than others.

Many of the issues that had to be worked out using aluminum, have been worked out as use of aluminum has evolved, over the years.

But because there is that past history, many individuals have concerns, that issues may surface, when aluminum is used. I think concern about 'newer' application of a material, used in large volume, can make many to want to sit back and see how a newer material...works first over an extended period, before accepting. This is not unwise.

Yes aluminum has been used in bodies before...one comes to mind Aston Martin, Jaguar, etc.

But Ford is using it on a huge volume vehicle, that will be put to the hard and long service use that trucks are expected to fulfill.

I expect that there will be no issues and that aluminum use will be successful with the Ford truck line.

But I also will be one, who will prefer to monitor the situation...see how things go over the first few years, before thinking about a commitment to buy a truck like this.

I also think that the other makers will follow in Ford's footsteps, when it comes to decision about material choice for truck bodies.

With ever increasing, stringent federal requirements for increased MPG's....the ability to significantly reduce weight, while maintaining high vehicle capability is a good decision for a manufacturer. It's a very good way to accomplish increased fuel efficiency, increased towing capability and increased performance in braking and handling. Less weight is always better, if capability such as payload, towing capacity can be maintained and/or improved and not compromised.

BTW, being a history buff, I think your use of the term 'Luddite' is over reaching....just a bit. ;)