2013 Light Duty Challenge

ib516 wrote:
I wonder what would have happened if they wouldn't have "power braked" before all of the acceleration tests (which to me seems like a blatant way to show favor the EcoBoost). Power braking before starting to move is unlikely to happen in the real world - something the tests are supposed to simulate, and would do nothing to help the non-turbo competitors. As I have a turbo-charged vehicle as my daily driver, I'm going to say not power braking the trucks would have seriously lengthened (due to turbo lag) the acceleration numbers for the EcoBoost F150. Thumbs down.

Seems maybe Pickuptruck.com cheer for the blue oval.

Power-braking is a disappointing test control move. Previous shootouts (example) used conventional launch methods:

All trucks and trailers were completely on the grade and stationary before each run. All the tests were performed “brake-to-accelerator,” meaning the foot brake was fully depressed with the right foot, which then lifted and fully depressed the accelerator pedal in one movement.

That was back when founder Mike Levine ran the site. He later quit and went to work for Ford PR, though I think he always ran balanced tests. I think the new management (cars.com staff) aren't as rigorous.

Ord