Ford will be the featured automaker of this year’s 2009 SEMA show where it will show a number of modified vehicles from its new lineup. Taking the center stage at SEMA this year will be Ford’s new 2010 Ford Taurus. The Ford Transit Connect, Ford Flex, Focus, and Edge will also join the lineup along with the new 2010 Ford Mustang.

This year’s featured Ford project vehicles at SEMA include:

Click through for the full list.

2010 Ford Mustang by 3dCarbon
The 3dCarbon Mustang is different from all other Mustangs because it is the true Boy Racer – an award-winning, full-body styling concept that was originally introduced with the 2005 Mustang body style. 3dCarbon introduces the 2010 Boy Racer – an evolution of styling from the old to the new featuring a bold aerodynamic design. The 3d Boy Racer is sure to turn heads.

2010 Ford Mustang by Galpin Auto Sports
The Mustang GT Convertible is the true American thrill machine, and that thrill doubles with a Ford Racing 550-horsepower supercharger and one-of-a-kind custom wide body. This is the car to have – whether you’re out on the road with the top down or in the city for a night on the town.

2010 Ford Mustang by H&R Special Springs
H&R Special Springs has taken a new 2010 Mustang and built a time machine that is making the future visible now. Working from awesome new styling cues, H&R brings the future closer; from the personalized colorized wheels and subtle LED lighting accents on the exterior to the luxurious white accents inside, custom tuning is the wave.

2010 Ford Mustang by Paul’s High Performance
This 2010 Mustang GT is unmistakably built for the quarter-mile drag strip, with low elapsed times in mind. From the functional hood to the rear wing, its aggressive wheels, tires, exhaust and custom-designed Paul’s High Performance products are all specifically tuned for maximum performance. Following in the Paul’s High Performance tradition, this GT screams “Record breaker!” while showing off Mustang’s impressive new body styling, which is way ahead of the competition.

2010 Ford Mustang by Steeda Autosports
The Steeda Q350 – embodied with the very soul of Mustang performance – provides a dynamic, super responsive and absolutely confident driving experience. With more wins, records and championships in production-based Mustangs than any other specialty manufacturer, the Steeda Q350 is both track tested and street legal. From the racetrack to the open road, the Steeda Q series never fails to amaze, combining the dynamics and agility of a high-performance sports racer with the everyday practicality and comfort of America’s original pony car – all in one integrated package.

2010 Ford Mustang by Street Scene Equipment
Street Scene Equipment once again leads the way with race-like styling for the street, and power, handling and style incorporated into the perfect package. This Mustang from Street Scene Equipment is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.

2010 Ford Mustang by Vaughn Gittin Jr.
World championship drifter Vaughn Gittin Jr. has introduced a new generation of Mustang to the world with the Mustang RTR. The extremely limited-production Mustang RTR-C puts still more muscle behind the already incredible 2010 Ford Mustang GT. Balancing 550 tire-shredding American horsepower with new-generation design influences, Vaughn has incorporated state-of-the-art technology with first-rate carbon fiber body construction to make the Mustang RTR-C one incredible-looking, raw performance machine.

2010 Ford Mustang by Ford Vehicle Personalization
Powered by imagination, this Ford Mustang showcases Ford Custom Accessories. The metallic gold design cues are inspired by such premier fashion designers as Prada, Stella McCartney and Balenciaga. The vehicle features unique Carbon Black Metallic exterior custom paint that is accented by gold 20-inch wheels and gold-tinted headlights and fog lamps. Inside, the gold theme continues with leather seat and door trim inserts, steering wheel cover and shifter boot.

2010 Ford Taurus by Tommy Z Design
The Ford Taurus lends itself quite easily to the Superlux Youthful Styling and yet it remains sophisticated. Tommy Z embellished this great vehicle with his own classic VIP luxury style and components.

2010 Ford Taurus SHO by Mobsteel
The Ford Taurus SHO and Mobsteel are both committed to being anything but ordinary. So it’s no surprise that the Taurus SHO by Mobsteel is one extraordinary vehicle. The trademark black-on-black Mobsteel paint job, custom fascias, and a host of trim touches and details give this 2010 Taurus SHO a tough menacing look, whether coming or going. And that’s just the beginning, as this SHO has the goods both inside and out.

The bad boy rides on massive 22-inch Mobsteel forged two-piece wheels and super-low-profile Pirelli PZero Nero tires. A completely customized chassis with Air Runner front struts and Mobsteel adjustable rear air ride provide attitude to the max. The Magnaflow Performance cat-back exhaust and JL Audio equipment make this Taurus SHO sound as tough as it looks.

2010 Ford Taurus “Best of SHO” by MRT-Direct
MRT-Direct gives its signature classy touches to this Taurus SHO by adding subtle ground effect treatment, and a black cherry roof and custom vented hood. Increased performance is achieved through turbo system efficiencies, an exhaust upgrade, and wheel, tire and suspension modifications. The cabin is designed to be sporty and comfortable, while a Kicker sound system delivers the final beat.

2010 Ford Fusion Sport by Aaron Vaccar Signature Series
Young custom car designer Aaron Vaccar, most noted for his work with modern and sport compact vehicles, has taken his knowledge of next-generation styling and applied it to the new Ford Fusion Sport. Speed, style and sound – quite simply, this Fusion reveals that such a balance does exist in a sport-tuned street car. Upgraded with the thrills of a turbocharged motor, this Fusion now packs even more power to back up its stunning looks.

Noting that function needs to meet form, the entire audio and trunk enclosures have been designed to seamlessly integrate into the vehicle’s styling and practicality. Tastefully mix the right combination of modifications, a bit of unique style combined with an already impressive platform, and what you get is this Aaron Vaccar Signature Series Fusion Sport.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid by M&J Enterprises
This Ford Fusion Hybrid by M&J Enterprises showcases a variety of eco-friendly accessories and aerodynamic parts. These range from air splitters to heat-reflective paint, window film and a vehicle data display. All items are either lighter in weight than the factory items, increase fuel economy or eliminate petroleum-based products. The data display helps increase the consumer’s environmental awareness. The whole package delivers a desirable, eco-friendly Ford Fusion aimed at consumers who like to customize their vehicles and are concerned with environmental issues.

2010 Ford Fusion “T4” by MRT
This custom version of the fun, sporty, fuel-efficient Ford Fusion successfully combines the best of all worlds. MRT started with clever but subtle appearance changes to the exterior trim and paint. Next, they brought the same sport feel and style to the interior with revised seating and interior trim accents. The fun-to-drive factor is kicked up a notch with a single intercooled turbocharger and Street Performance coil-over suspension. To unleash the full potential of the awesome turbocharged powerplant, MRT skillfully exhaust-balanced the system with a high-performance stainless-steel Max-Flow™ h-pipe and back half exhaust system using the finest CNC Mandrel bend tube and high-flow components. The result is a system that delivers enhanced power and truly satisfying performance-car sound. Twenty-inch wheels and tires add a final touch to set off the look and give this Fusion an even smarter, sportier stance. On the inside, a kickin’ audio system from Kicker provides the perfect balance of amped-up entertainment.

2010 Ford Transit Connect by Azentek and Grant Products
Azentek and Grant Products teamed up to build this unique “Travel Inn” Ford Transit Connect van. Designed for people who are always on the go, it comes complete with the Azentek in-vehicle computing and navigation radio, and a Concept DVD for watching movies. You can cook while tailgating with your mini pull-out kitchen and even sleep in complete comfort in the upper bunk bed. You also will drive in style with the Grant Products body kit, race-inspired steering wheel and GAC interior. The vehicle features 18-inch BBS wheels with a Winona PVD chrome finish and Bridgestone Firestone tires.

2010 Ford Transit Connect by Ford Vehicle Personalization
This 2010 Transit Connect was developed by the Ford Vehicle Personalization team and it features Genuine Ford Accessories, Ford Licensed Accessories and various personalization concepts. Inspired by West Coast beaches, the vehicle is presented in a soft anodized Metallic Gold exterior paint with a large energetic side graphic depicting young people playing sports and having fun on the beach. Various racks and carriers on the exterior secure your favorite outdoor gear.

The interior is the main focus of this custom Transit Connect, showcasing the flexibility of space in the cargo area and the ability to create a realm of personal use around this vehicle rather than strictly commercial/business usage. Shown with two seats, the cargo area will house an audio wall with a custom audio/video system, a skateboard rack displaying four skateboards and a rear-mounted LCD flip-out flat-screen monitor with video game console.

2010 Ford Edge “RallyE” by Santini Paint
Santini Paint, combined with the talent of Steve Stanford Design, has taken the Ford Edge crossover to a level of design utilizing influence from the old-school British racing era, tuner cars and a little rally car, so that this “soccer mom” grocery-getter becomes the “cool” car for the family. With a few inches out of the suspension, the big wheel and tire combination, 3dCarbon body kit, British Racing Green color and an asymmetrical competition stripe paint scheme with some interior accents added in, Santini’s Ford Edge becomes a “Coolover.”

2009 Ford Focus by FSWerks
In its constant search for more power, the FSWerks crew has taken a 2009 Ford Focus Coupe and pushed it to the edge. Utilizing many years of racing, fabricating and powertrain experience, this transformed Ford Focus is now pushing more than 500 horsepower, making it one serious track Focus.

2009 Ford Focus by Creations n’ Chrome
Creations n’ Chrome has taken green technology to the extreme with its 2009 Ford Focus. The exterior starts with an outrageous green chrome finish using Cosmichrome water-based spray-on plating technology, 3dCarbon Euro Series six-piece body kit and lightweight Work Emotion wheels. To increase engine efficiency and aerodynamics, an FSWerks turbo kit and H&R coil-over suspension are added. The interior was custom refinished from top to bottom with House of Color paint and custom Katzkin leather.

2010 Ford Flex by Falken Tire
Breaking the mold of cookie-cutter project vehicles on oversized chrome rims, Falken Tire has envisioned the perfect blend of traditional “lowrider” styling and a 2010 platform while utilizing today’s finest full-size CUV, the Ford Flex. Rolling on 22-inch Falken S/TZ04 tires and wire- spoke Dayton wheels, this ride will surely earn the respect of everyone from old-school purists to new-age tuners. Break the mold and Flex Your Style.

2009 Ford F-150 by K-Daddyz Kustomz
The crew at K-Daddyz Kustomz has applied their street influence with a touch of urban luxury to this Ford F-150. Staying true to their “In Your Face” style of building, this truck boasts 24-inch wheels with a radical air bag suspension. The custom two-tone paint grabs your attention while remaining classy. And in case you really need to get there quickly, the 5.4-liter supercharged engine will deliver. Whether drawing crowds at a show or turning heads on the boulevard, this F-150 plays for keeps. After all, it’s Built Ford Tough.

2009 Ford F-150 by Malibu Customz
Malibu Customz has taken their talent for customization and accented it by teaming up with world-renowned artist Mickey Harris to create the 2009 “Freedom Truck” as a tribute to all the people who serve or have served in the U.S. armed forces.

2009 Ford F-150 by Superlift
Superlift Suspension Systems has been manufacturing superbly engineered off-road suspension systems for two- and four-wheel-drive trucks for 35 years. Superlift has taken that experience and applied it to Mattel’s Hot Wheels vision of the 2009 Ford F-150. In doing so, they were able to take the F-150 to the next level in style, appearance and performance, while keeping as much detail as possible of the original 1:64 Hot Wheels die-cast model. Superlift has taken a pedestrian F-150 and transformed it into a toy that any man, woman or child would be happy to play with.

2010 Ford F-150 by Ford Vehicle Personalization
Project FX2 Sport 6.2L H.O. showcases the new Ford F-150, the Ford Vehicle Personalization Team, Ford Racing, Genuine Ford Accessories and Ford Licensed Accessories. Starting with America’s best-selling full-size pickup for 32 straight years, the Vehicle Personalization Team delivers the new head-turning 2010 F-150 FX2 Sport production package. The FX2 Sport package is available right now from your local Ford dealer and features a dark billet grille, unique headlamp treatment, monochromatic paint, unique wheels, custom step bars, a sporty deep front valance and sport captain’s chairs with flow-through center console and floor- mounted shifter. Adding Genuine Ford Accessories such as the bed sport liner and Ford Licensed Accessories such as the Hard Color Matched Tonneau Cover, you can easily transform America’s best-selling full-size pickup into a highly personalized vehicle.

This concept vehicle adds additional excitement by showing concepts presently not available on the FX2 such as the Regular Cab configuration and the power and towing muscle of a 6.2-liter H.O. powertrain. With its Red Candy tinted clearcoat exterior paint and Satin Gold graphics, this vehicle projects even more sport style. In addition to the standard FX2 Sport package content, the show vehicle features concept equipment such as a black chrome billet grille, a Ford Racing rear dual exhaust system with black chrome tips, a lowering kit, a hood scoop and Satin Gold finishes on the wheels and towing hitch accessories. In addition to Trailer Sway Control, which is standard on all F-150s, this vehicle also features available F-150 options such as the Trailer Brake Controller and a navigation system. The result is Project FX2 Sport 6.2L H.O. – sport style that stands out from the crowd at the track, and powerful towing confidence to get you there and back.

2011 Ford Super Duty DeWALT Contractor “Concept”
The new 2011 Ford Super Duty is the ultimate tough truck on any job site. With all-new powertrains, upgraded capability and tougher-than-ever new styling, the rugged, durable and strong truck is a valuable member of any work crew. This custom DeWALT edition of the new Super Duty is designed to drive improved productivity and performance for the serious contractor with a host of innovative features and upgrades inside and out. One of the most powerful enhancements is Ford Work Solutions™, the exclusive system from Ford that helps turn Super Duty into the ultimate mobile office and helps contractors effectively manage their tool inventories through Tool Link™ and Customized On-Board Storage.

- By: Kap Shah

If you missed out on the government’s Cash for Clunkers incentive – don’t feel so bad. Some car companies continue to offer hefty incentives since they aren’t getting any help from the Obama administration.

KickingTires is reporting that Ford is offering $4,500 cash back on the 2009 Ford F-150 through October 5. The same amount you would’ve received if you traded in an old clunker.

The new 2010 Ford F-150s are also making their way into showrooms and are being sold with a $1,500 cash back plus 0 percent financing for 60 months. The Ford F-150 Raptor and regular cab versions are excluded from the offer.

2009 Ford F-150:

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: KickingTires

FoMoCo has just announced that it is adding a third shift to its Dearborn Truck Plant and Kansas City Assembly Plant’s sport utility line to meet strong demand for Ford F-150 and Escape vehicles. The move will add full-time employment for 2,800 employees who have been working on a two-weeks-on and one-week-off rotating basis.

The changes announced will result in the additional production of approximately 10,000 F-150 pickups and 2,400 Escape SUVs.

The Ford Escape and the Ford Escape Hybrid set a July sales record last month of 20,241 units, resulting in a 16 percent share of the SUV segment in the first 7 months of July. The Ford F-150, the best-selling pickup for 32 consecutive years, posted its best U.S. monthly sales of 2009 with 36,327 units sold.

Follow the jump for the press release.

Press Release:

FORD ADDS SHIFTS AT PLANTS IN KANSAS CITY, MICHIGAN TO MEET DEMAND FOR FUEL-EFFICIENT ESCAPE, F-150

* Ford’s Dearborn Truck Plant in Dearborn, Mich., will resume as a three-crew operation in September, to meet demand for F-150 pickups in the U.S. and Canada. The move will result in full-time employment for 2,800 employees who had been working on a two-weeks-on and one-week-off rotating basis since April.

* Ford is moving to a three-crew operation from a two-shift operating pattern at Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Mo., in October to maximize the plant’s efficiency and help to better meet demand for fuel-efficient Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner utilities

* In August, Ford is on track to post its highest monthly F-Series and Escape sales of 2009 following strong sales for both vehicles in July

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 27, 2009 – Ford Motor Company today announced it is adding third production shifts at its Dearborn Truck Plant and Kansas City Assembly Plant’s sport utility line to help meet strong demand for Ford F-150 pickups and Escape utility vehicles.

In August, Ford expects to post its first monthly year-over-year sales increase for F-Series trucks since October 2006, as well as another record-setting sales month for Escape.

“Even with ‘Cash for Clunkers’ behind us, we expect that demand for our fuel-efficient, high quality new vehicles will remain strong,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service. “We had a solid July sales month, and we are headed toward an even stronger August. We’re being as creative as we can in pushing the system to meet the demand for our products.”

To meet demand, the operating pattern changes announced at Dearborn Truck Plant will result in the additional production of approximately 10,000 F-150 pickups this year and full-time employment for 2,800 employees who had been working on a two-weeks-on, one-week-off rotating basis since April. The changes at Dearborn Truck will go into effect in late September.

The addition of a third crew on the SUV line at Kansas City Assembly, when combined with previously announced incremental overtime at the plant that began earlier this month, will deliver approximately 2,400 additional Escapes and Mariners by the end of October. Employment levels at Kansas City Assembly will remain unchanged, as the plant also moves from two shifts to one shift of production on its pickup truck line. The changes there are effective beginning in mid-October.

The production increases of both vehicles were included in the company’s previously announced production plan for the third and fourth quarter of this year.

“We continue to work together with the UAW to find solutions in our manufacturing facilities that will make them more efficient and our business more competitive,” said Joe Hinrichs, group vice president, Global Manufacturing and Labor Affairs. “The operating pattern changes we are making in these two plants will accomplish both goals, while helping Ford to better meet real customer demand for Ford vehicles.”

The Ford Escape and Escape Hybrid, the world’s most fuel-efficient utility vehicle, set a July sales record last month of 20,241 units, its third-highest monthly sales performance since its introduction in 2000. The Escape’s share of the small utility segment is 16 percent in 2009 through July, an increase of 2.3 points compared to the same period in 2008.

At the same time, the company’s F-Series trucks, the best-selling truck for 32 consecutive years, posted its best U.S. monthly sales of 2009 with 36,327 units and total year-to-date share of 34.4 percent – a 1.3 point increase over year-ago levels. Further, F-Series trucks have been the sales leader in Canada for the last three months.

“Customers are taking notice of Ford’s fresh new lineup, and they recognize our best-in-class quality, fuel efficiency and smart technology,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. “In fact, both internal and external studies show a positive trend in the percentage of consumers with favorable opinions about Ford and our vehicles. When customers decide to pick up a Ford, Lincoln or Mercury for their driveways, we want to be ready for them.”

The Escape and F-150 helped Ford record its ninth retail market share gain in 10 months in July. Other highlights in July include:

* Ford Fusion sales totaled 17,610, a July record and up 66 percent versus a year ago, and Mercury Milan sales were up 60 percent. The 2010 model Fusion and Milan and their hybrid versions are the most fuel-efficient mid-size sedans in America.
* Ford Focus sales totaled 21,830, up 44 percent versus a year ago. The Focus is among the most fuel-efficient compact cars in America with an EPA highway rating of 35 mpg.
* Ford Ranger sales totaled 7,695, up 65 percent versus a year ago. The Ranger is the most fuel-efficient compact pickup in America.
* Ford Flex sales totaled 3,631, up 65 percent versus a year ago. The Flex is among the most fuel-efficient mid-size crossover utilities in America.
* Ford’s hybrid vehicles (Fusion, Milan, Escape and Mariner) posted combined sales of 5,353, a record for any month and up 323 percent versus a year ago.

More new products are on the way. The first new 2010 Ford Taurus sedans were delivered at the end of July, as well as the first Transit Connects.

This summer, Ford also debuted its EcoBoost engine technology in the Taurus SHO, Lincoln MKS, Ford Flex and all-new Lincoln MKT crossover vehicle. In these vehicles, EcoBoost provides the fuel economy of a six-cylinder engine and the performance of a V-8.

- By: Omar Rana

As we come closer to wrapping up our first full day in August, we’re taking a short break to bring you some random findings on the Internet.

Top 10 best-selling cars in July 2009: The results for July 2009 are slowly coming in and we now have a list of the top 10 best-selling cars for the month. – KickingTires

• Ford F-Series: 36,327
• Toyota Camry: 33,974
• Honda Civic: 30,037
• Honda Accord: 29,774
• Toyota Corolla: 29,593
• Chevy Silverado: 27,617
• Ford Focus: 21,830
• Ford Escape: 20,241
• Nissan Altima: 19,252
• Toyota Prius: 19,173

Diesels paying back quicker than hybrid models: While Japanese automakers are increasing their focus on implementing hybrid systems into their vehicles, German automakers continue to stay true to diesel models. Edmunds.com’s recent research shows that a diesel model’s payback time is quicker than a hybrid-electric model. – AutoObserver

GM to boost Q3 production: General Motors Company plans to boost third-quarter production by 35 percent over second-quarter levels. GM said it will build 210,000 cars and 325,000 light trucks in the three-month period, reports Automotive News.

- Stephen Calogera

Chris Lentz has realized his childhood dream of owning a jet-powered pickup. Lentz purchased a turbojet engine from a pilot he met from New York who imported and sold them in the United States. Lentz later bought a 2005 Ford F-150 STX on eBay for $12,000 and fitted his $10,000 Motorlet M-701 turbojet engine into the pickup.

His total cost of construction came in at $25,000.

The Specs

Engines: 4.6L V-8 231 hp; turbojet with 1962 lb of thrust
Weight: 6221 lb
Weight Dist., F/R: 45.6/54.4%
Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 8.5 sec; 1/4 mile in 16.3 sec @ 103 mph
Top Speed: 140 mph

Check out a video of Lentz’s jet-powered 2005 Ford F-150 STX after the jump.

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Source: Automobile

Another day and another award for the new 2009 Ford F-150. This time Kelly Blue Book has awarded the new F-150 the winner of the 2009 Brand Image Award for the “Most Rugged Truck Brand.”

The 2009 Brand Image Awards are based on data collected from more than 12,000 shoppers on kbb.com that are in the market for a new vehicle. Ford will be putting KBB’s 2009 Brand Image Award on the shelf right next to the 2009 North American Truck of the Year, 2009 Motor Trend Truck of the Year and “Truck of Texas” by the Texas Auto Writers.

“We have more trucks on the road with 250,000 miles or more than any other manufacturer,” said Doug Scott, Ford Truck Marketing manager. “That’s one of the proof points of Built Ford Tough, and it certainly speaks to the ruggedness, durability and quality of the vehicle”

While delivering more horsepower and fuel-economy the Ford F-150 has a class-leading towing capability of 11,300 pounds and hauling capacity of 3,031 pounds.

2009 Ford F-150:

The 2009 Ford F-150 has also earned the following honors and awards:

    – 2009 North American Truck of the Year
    – America’s safest full-size pickup with 5-star frontal and 5-star side-impact crash-test ratings, the highest possible scores, in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests.
    – Motor Trend 2009 Truck of the Year Award™
    – Top honors as “Truck of Texas” as well as “Best Luxury Pickup” for the 2009 F-150 King Ranch from Texas Auto Writers Association
    – Finalist 2009 North American Truck of the Year (with 2009 Ford Flex for Car of the Year)
    – Playboy’s 2009 Best Pickup
    – 2009 Best Redesigned Vehicle from Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com
    – “Best Overall Half-Ton Pickup” from PickupTrucks.com
    – “Automotive Excellence” award in the Workhorse Category from Popular Mechanics
    – Detroit Free Press Truck of the Year
    – Detroit News Truck of the Year
    – “Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for its standard safety technology: Safety Canopy side curtain air bags and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control
    – “Residual Value” award from Automotive Leasing Guide (ALG) for retaining the highest percentage of its original price among 2009 full-size light duty pickups at the end of a conventional three-year lease, based on ALG projections
    – Motor Trend’s Truck Trend Top 5 Trucks from Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) for 2009 Ford F-150 Heavy Duty DeWalt Contractor Concept
    – “Accessory-Friendly Truck” Design Award from SEMA
    – F-Series is best selling vehicle in America for 27 consecutive years; best-selling truck for 32 consecutive years

- By: Omar Rana

FoMoCo has taken the wraps off the new 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 prior to its 2009 Chicago Auto Show debut. The new Harley-Davidson F-150 marks the 14th edition of the special-edition truck for customers that appreciate that extra customization.

New editions feature a new bold front fascia with a premium interior and Harley-Davidson badging. The outside of the 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 features a 6-bar shaped billet style grille and forged aluminum and Harley-Davidson chrome badging. Sitting a little lower than your standard F-150, the Harley-Davidson edition rides on 22-inch low-profile performance tires and Euroflange forged wheels.

Under the hood is a standard 5.4L V8 that produces 320-hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. The 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 will be available this summer in Tuxedo Black or Lava, a deep maroon-ish color. Pricing will be announced later this summer and we don’t expect it to be cheap.

Click through for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150:

Press Release:

NEW 2010 FORD HARLEY-DAVIDSON F-150: TOUGH TRUCK WITH COOL ATTITUDE; NEW DETAILS, INSIDE AND OUT

    -  2010 Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150 edition features a new, bold front fascia and grille along with a premium interior and model-specific ornamentation
    – Sport suspension and standard 22-inch polished, forged aluminum wheels and tires – the largest available on F-Series – complement refined ride of the new Harley-Davidson F-150 edition

CHICAGO, Feb. 10, 2009 – The 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150 delivers a new standard of “custom cool,” combining the smooth handling and legendary durability of America’s best-selling truck with the authentic styling of Harley-Davidson, the industry leader in motorcycles.

This marks the 14th Harley-Davidson edition of an F-Series truck and latest in a line of Ford Harley-Davidson F-Series models dating back to 2000, which aim to appeal to customers who appreciate quality and unique details only this kind of collaboration can bring.

“Our successful co-branding, unmatched in the industry, offers customers true specialized truck luxury,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of Global Product Development. “Just like with our other associations, we’ve linked with an industry leader to offer the best
of the best.”

The successful collaboration between these two icons of the open road has produced eight F-150 models, as well as six Super Duty F-250, F-350, and in 2009, the first Harley-Davidson F-450 edition truck. The 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 is the first Harley-Davidson edition vehicle built off the award-winning new 2009 Ford F-150.

“This truck builds on the legacy of toughness that’s been the hallmark of the Ford F-Series brand,” said Matt O’Leary, chief engineer. “Now we’re giving customers more of everything they love with the best F-150 and the boldest Harley-Davidson F-150 ever – featuring a fully differentiated design, all-wheel-drive capability, 22-inch wheels and a knock-out interior.”

The exterior of the 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 offers a bold front fascia and six-bar shaped billet style grille and boasts specialized forged aluminum and Harley-Davidson® chrome badging. The truck will have a lowered appearance because of a fully integrated deployable running board.

Also standard are 22-inch low-profile performance tires – the largest in the F-Series lineup –
and Euroflange forged wheels with a polished and painted center wheel cap. The paint selection is classic Harley-Davidson – Tuxedo Black and the first Ford application of Lava, a deep maroon with three-color metal flake.

The interior is customized to appeal to the truck buyer who appreciates the attention to detail for which both Ford and Harley-Davidson are renowned.

“There’s a real tie-in between the truck’s interior and exterior designs,” said Patrick Schiavone, Design director. “It’s very much like how some customized Harley-Davidson motorcycles have a prominent theme that runs through them. That’s how we tie it in with custom bikes.”

Also impressive are the seats and console lid, which features hand-made cloisonné badges; the console has a limited-edition serialization plate.

“These handmade badges continue our theme of premium Harley-Davidson offerings,” said Schiavone. “Probably the only place that most people have seen hand-made cloisonné is on premium Harley-Davidson motorcycles. It’s really high craftsmanship, and people will recognize it as another connection between the two brands.”

Linkage is apparent even in the smallest details, such as adornments on the seats.

“The theme of the seat was designed to resemble a Harley® biker jacket,” Schiavone said. “We even used authentic materials you’d find on Harley-Davidson MotorClothes® brand apparel.”

The seat backs feature ribbed leather treatments, engraved Harley-Davidson button snaps and even zippered map pockets featuring zippers from Harley jackets.

It is important to the Ford Design team that the truck remain genuine to enthusiasts of Harley-Davidson, customers who traditionally are as loyal to their motorcycles as F-150 owners are to their trucks.

That’s why the team meets regularly with Harley-Davidson designers and travels to motorcycle events throughout the year – including Daytona Bike Week, Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and Harley-Davidson dealer meetings – to talk to current and potential customers. The team wants to be sure that when Harley-Davidson owners or enthusiasts need a truck, this is the truck they choose.

“We talk to everyone we can; we find out what the customer values,” O’Leary said. “We look at what they like, what they want, and what they wish they had, and we go from there.”

“No one understands their customers better than Harley-Davidson and Ford,” said Joanne Bischmann, vice president – Licensing, Harley-Davidson Motor Company. “We’re proud to share the spirit of Harley-Davidson authenticity in a unique interpretation of America’s favorite truck, the F-Series.”

About the F-150
On the new F-150, there’s a wealth of content complementing its unique appearance. The 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 is equipped with a 5.4-liter three-valve engine, which is rated up to 320 horsepower and 390 ft.-lbs. of torque and mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with a sport-tuned exhaust and a top speed of 115 mph.

The truck is available with 4×2 or an optional all-wheel drive, which features settings of 4×2, AWD and 4×4 high, unique to the Harley-Davidson edition on the F-150 platform. All 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 models will be SuperCrews.

The F-150 is new inside and out. The Ford truck team adopted a holistic, 360-degree approach to revamping the vehicle – from its segment-first features to the tough new exterior, a more spacious, flexible and refined interior and an unparalleled choice of cab styles and trim levels.

The improvements are just as dramatic beneath the sheet metal. They include a new high-strength, lighter-weight chassis that delivers even more horsepower, unsurpassed fuel economy and class-leading towing and payload capacity.

The new design has garnered an impressive array of awards:

    – F-Series is the best selling vehicle in America for 27 consecutive years; best-selling truck for 32 consecutive years
    – Motor Trend 2009 Truck of the Year Award™
    – Top honors as “Truck of Texas” as well as “Best Luxury Pickup” for the 2009 F-150 King Ranch from Texas Auto Writers Association
    – 2009 North American Truck of the Year
    – “Best Overall Half-Ton Pickup” from PickupTrucks.com
    – 2009 Best Redesigned Vehicle from Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com
    – “Automotive Excellence” award in the Workhorse Category from Popular Mechanics
    – Motor Trend’s Truck Trend Top 5 Trucks from Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) for 2009 Ford F-150 Heavy Duty DeWalt Contractor Concept
    – Detroit Free Press Truck of the Year
    – Detroit News Truck of the Year
    – Best Truck by Florida Monthly
    – Playboy’s 2009 Best Pickup
    – “Accessory-Friendly Truck” Design Award from SEMA
    – America’s Safest Full-size Pickup with 5-star frontal and 5-star side-impact crash-test ratings, the highest possible scores, in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests.
    – “Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for its standard safety technology: Safety Canopy side curtain air bags and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control
    – “Residual Value” award from Automotive Leasing Guide (ALG) for retaining the highest percentage of its original price among 2009 full-size light duty pickups at the end of a conventional three-year lease, based on ALG projections

The folks at PickupTrucks.com are reporting that Ford has major changes coming up for the Ford F-150 powertrain lineup in 2010. Currently, the Ford F-150 offers an entry-level 4.6L V8 or a range-topping 5.4L V8.

According to PickupTrucks.com sources, by late 2010, the standard engine will be a 5.0L V8 codenamed “coyote.” It will return an estimated 400-hp with a maximum torque of 400 lb-ft with fuel-economy being comparable to the current 5.4L V8. The range-topper will be a 3.5L V6 turbocharged EcoBoost with direct-injection. Instead of producing 355-hp like it does in the Lincoln MKS, MKT and the Ford Flex it will be uprated to make 400-hp and a peak torque of 400 lb-ft. Fuel-economy is expected to come in at 23 mpg on the highway.

The two new engines will replace the 4.6L and 5.4L V8. The 6.8L V8 Boss engine will be limited to the 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor and the special-edition Super Duty line.

Source: PickupTrucks.com

After raking up the 2009 Motor Trend Truck of the Year of award, the 2009 Ford F-150 today reestablished its leadership in the pickup segment after the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded it 5-stars in crash-test ratings.

Ford says that the 2009 Ford F-150 features more standard safety features than any other half-ton truck. Standard safety features include Safety Canopy side curtain air bags, AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) and a patented “K-bag” seat-mounted air bag.

The 2009 Ford F-150 recently earned 5-star frontal and 5-star side impact crash-test ratings – the highest possible score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Ford said that it has more U.S. government 5-star safety-rated vehicles than any other brand and more IIHS “Top Safety Picks” than any other automaker. Just another reason to go Drive One.

2009 Ford F-150:

No big surprise here (well at least to us) - Motor Trend has awarded the 2009 Ford F-150 the 2009 Motor Trend Truck of the Year. While rivals Dodge Ram and Toyota Tundra are really strong pickups, the rules have been changed this time around.

“Fuel prices skyrocketed, the economy tanked, consumer confidence evaporated, and folks who once chose half-ton pickups more for their Marlboro-Man-image-enhancing qualities than for their towing or hauling capabilities are shopping elsewhere,” says Frank Markus of Motor Trend.

As Motor Trend points out, the Ford F-150 has a payload capacity of up to 3,030 pounds and tow ratings of up to 11,300 pounds. Even with those figures, the new 6-speed automatic, a lighter body, more aerodynamic cab offer a 12 percent boost (in the 5.4L variant) in fuel-economy.

Ford claims it sells more of its half-ton pickups to work and commercial customers than its competitors, and the company predicts this segment will grow to 45 percent of F-150 sales. We’re obsessed with the 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor.

Toyota’s Tundra took the award in 2008.

2009 Ford F-150:

Source: Motor Trend

The 2009 Ford F-150 was named the Best Redesigned Vehicle for 2009 by Kelley Blue Book. The kbb.com editors said that the 2009 Ford F-150 is more powerful, efficient, refined and tech-laden than its predecessor.

Ford’s F-Series received the award about 5 years ago making it the first repeat winner after taking the title for 2009. The top 10 list also included the Acura TL, Mazda6, Honda Fit and Audi A4 (you can see the full list after the jump).

In judging the cars, editors at kbb.com take into account the exterior and interior styling, technology, comfort and convenience features, performance/capability, driving dynamics, safety, fuel economy, overall refinement and value.

Click through for the Top 10 2009 Best Redesigned Vehicles list.

kbb.com’s 2009 Best Redesigned Vehicles:

Acura TL
Acura TSX
Audi A4
Dodge Ram
Ford F-150
Honda Fit
Mazda6
Nissan Maxima
Nissan Murano
Subaru Forester

2009 Ford F-150:

After killing two shifts of the F-150 five months ago, FoMoCo is restoring a shift of the pickup production at its Kansas City, Mo. assembly plant. According to spokeswoman Angie Kozleski, Ford will restore the shift in January and will schedule overtime production of the F-150 this week.

The move comes as Ford executives felt there was “stronger-than-expected” demand for the redesigned 2009 Ford F-150, reports Automotive News.

The 2009 Ford F-150 went on sale this fall and while sales were down 25.4 percent in November compared to the same period an year ago, it was the number one selling vehicle last month beating out the Chevrolet Silverado and Toyota Camry. Ford says that it expects F-Series sales to return to previous levels. The company sold 473,933 F-Series units during the first 11 months of 2008. It sold 939,463 units of the truck in 2004.

2009 Ford F-150:

The new 2009 Ford F-150 is the latest Ford vehicle to earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick award. That gives FoMoCo, including vehicles from Volvo, a total of 16 IIHS Top Safety Pick ratings, furthering itself from Honda’s second place total of 13.

The 2009 Ford F-150 received the highest rating for front and side impact tests in evaluation of the seats and head restraints. Standard safety offerings include Ford’s AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control). It also features a Safety Canopy side-curtain air bag rollover protection system and the new “K-bag,” a front seat dual-chamber side air bag, which is designed to help protect the rib cage from excessive crash forces during a side impact.

Other Ford vehicles that made the list include the Mercury Mariner, Mazda Tribute, and the Ford Escape – all which share the same underpinnings.

2009 Ford F-150:

“Like its fighter jet and dinosaur namesakes, the F-150 SVT Raptor is tough, fast, aggressive, and built with the off-road enthusiast in mind,” Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president for Global Product Development, said today at the launch of probably the wildest pickup we have ever layed our eyes on.

The 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor has landed and is ready to tap into the growing off-road enthusiast market offering the most ultimate off-road performance experience. Besides its ‘Built Ford Tough’ aggressive looks, the F-150 SVT Raptor gets its power from a 5.4L Triton V8 engine that makes 310-hp with a maximum torque of 365 lb-ft. A 6.2L V8 engine will also be available after launch.

Ford’s SVT team used a specially designed 62-mile track in the desert of Borrego Springs, California, to replicate the conditions of the Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 race – in which the 500-hp 6.2L V8 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor R will take part.

Enthusiasts interested in owning their own F-150 SVT Raptor will have to wait until next summer. Production of the truck will take place at Ford’s Dearborn Truck Plant alongside the new F-150.

Want more? Check out a video from StreetFire after the jump featuring Mike Levine from PickupTrucks.com.

2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor:

Ford Unveils the 2010 Raptor at SEMA 2008:

Press Release:

FORD TAKES TRUCK LEADERSHIP OFF-ROAD WITH NEW F-150 SVT RAPTOR PERFORMANCE PICKUP TRUCK

    -  Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) taps into growing off-road enthusiast market and builds on the solid foundation of the new Ford F-150 to deliver the ultimate off-road performance truck – the 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor
    – Industry-first internal bypass shocks by Fox Racing Shox help provide smooth ride; lower, wider design key to desert racing and off-road performance
    – The F-150 SVT Raptor launches with the proven 5.4-liter Triton V-8 with 310 horsepower and 365 lb.-ft of torque; a 6.2-liter V-8 engine will be available after launch

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 4, 2008 – Ford, the definitive leader in tough trucks, is further building on its solid foundation of the new F-150 to deliver the all-new 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor, a purpose-built, high-performance off-road truck versatile enough to take on the most challenging desert adventures as well as the everyday commute.

“Ford trucks have been a mainstay on the off-road racing scene for more that 20 years because of our long history of capability and durability,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president for Global Product Development. “With the F-150 SVT Raptor, we are delivering a true off-road performance truck with the proven ‘Built Ford Tough’ capability and durability that is at the core of every F-150 and the best in performance thanks to the team at SVT.”

“Like its fighter jet and dinosaur namesakes, the F-150 SVT Raptor is tough, fast, aggressive, and built with the off-road enthusiast in mind,” he added.

Ford and off-road racing
Desert off-road racing is something Ford knows and does well, with eight championships in nine divisions in the 2007 “Best In The Desert” series and four more titles in CORR (Championship Off Road Racing). Ford has also shown its dominance at the Baja 1000 race – 12 Ford-powered vehicles have won the overall title for four-wheel vehicles, the most of any engine manufacturer.

With interest in off-road performance growing at a steady rate, the F-150 SVT Raptor was built to fulfill the desires of that highly demanding market. The high-performance off-road truck market is one that’s largely untapped, allowing the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor to set the bar for this type of vehicle.

“Most of the major manufacturers have focused on-road performance, so when we looked at what was available in off-road truck performance, it was somewhat limited,” said Mark Grueber, Ford product marketing manager for pickups and large SUVs. “This was the perfect opportunity for Ford to further differentiate the F-150 from other trucks on the market.”

Looks tough and fast
The tough, chiseled look of the new Ford F-150 has been taken to a new level with F-150 SVT Raptor. The agile, performance truck was designed to give the impression it is always on the move.

Noticeable differences between the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor and conventional F-150 include a distinctive grille that has the Ford name carved into it; front bumper, vented hood, front fascia and fenders, functional hood extractors, fender extractors with ‘SVT’ bored out, as well as visible FOX Racing Shox, the only internal bypass shocks available on a street truck.

Another key difference between the F-150 SVT Raptor and the base F-150 is it is more than seven inches wider. Ford designers took advantage of this difference and highlighted it with distinctive marker lamps. When turned off, the marker lamps are well-integrated into the F-150 SVT Raptor’s front end, as opposed to on top of the cab. When lit up, Raptor’s imposing stance is immediately recognizable.

While the exterior design of the F-150 SVT Raptor is about creating an image, the interior design is about creating the feel of the truck, and both must complement each other.

Design elements from the unique grille and front fascia have been carried through to the interior on the console and dashboard. The steering wheel is wrapped in black leather and features a molten-orange leather strip that serves as a centering sight line – which is especially useful in extreme driving maneuvers that can often cause the driver to lose perspective of the steering wheel’s center point.

Revved up and ready
The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is powered by the F-150’s proven 5.4-liter Triton V-8 three-valve engine, which delivers 320 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. A new open-valve fuel injection strategy improves the air/fuel charge conditions in the combustion chamber, allowing greater spark advance at higher loads and engine speeds. This delivers increased horsepower during towing and higher rpm operations, lower emissions and more efficient use of fuel.

A new 6.2-liter V-8 engine will be available after launch. The 6.2-liter engine features all-new architecture specifically designed for robustness in a truck application.

Given reliability and longevity under harsh conditions are key to truck customers, the Ford team performed extensive testing to ensure the 6.2-liter V-8 engine would live up to the ‘Built Ford Tough’ promise. Fifty 6.2-liter V-8 engines successfully endured more than a dozen of the toughest engine tests at Ford’s dynamometer lab during development.

SVT used a specially designed, 62-mile durability loop in the desert of Borrego Springs, Calif., to replicate the conditions of the Baja 1000 race, to further test the engines’ performance.

Take off and landing
Building a high-performance off-road truck is not about the horsepower – it’s about the suspension. The F-150 SVT Raptor doesn’t disappoint, with 13.4 inches of usable travel in the rear suspension and 11.2 in the front.

“With the F-150 SVT Raptor, we changed the axle, the whole front suspension is different – new upper A arm, new lower A arm, new tie rod, new half-shaft joints,” said Jamal Hameedi, Ford SVT chief engineer. “It’s well beyond what SVT has ever done with one of our vehicles.”

Raptor’s wider track and softer suspension mean it will comparatively glide over obstacles. And when it has to be “launched,” be prepared for a soft landing. “The suspension does all the work to keep the truck’s attitude stable,” Hameedi said.

In addition to a beefed up suspension, the F-150 SVT Raptor also boasts unique internal bypass Fox Racing Shox, the only internal bypass shocks on a street truck. The position sensitive dampening internal bypass feature allows the shock to become significantly stiffer as it travels, preventing the truck from bottoming out.

By working with Fox internal bypass technology and applying the Ford engineering methodology, there haven’t been trade-offs to assure extreme off-road handling over on-road ride comfort.

“This truck is also going to be a daily driver. We brought together a lot of experts to ensure the on-road steering precision and comfort was there, too,” said Hameedi. “That’s where Ford expertise really came to the table and complemented Fox’s off-road expertise.”

A tough truck needs tough tires, and a BF Goodrich All-Terrain TA/KO 315/70-17 tire does the job.
To help improve the tire in a variety of conditions, the compound of the tread was altered. Engineers made the rubber softer for better performance on and off-road and for precise and predictable steering in a variety of conditions while the interior of the tire was modified to improve lateral firmness.

The tall sidewall on the 35-inch tire can handle rocks and irregular surfaces commonly experienced in an off-road environment. A 17-inch cast aluminum wheel is designed to absorb the impact of objects the truck could encounter in some of the most extreme environments.

Specialized Technologies
The F-150 SVT Raptor provides the complete package for off-roaders, including state-of-the-art technologies to keep it at the top of capability.

“For many years, enthusiasts have been struggling with the performance of electronic technologies in the extreme off-road environment since that was not the environment they were designed for,” Hameedi said. “What SVT has done is tailor technology to function in both an on-road and an extreme off-road environment.”

Technologies include:

    – AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™) predicts the vehicle’s path using a sensor to detect and measure oversteer and yaw by monitoring the vehicle’s speed, throttle position and steering wheel angle. When the system senses wheel slip or the loss of traction, it applies braking where needed to keep the truck tracking safely on its intended path. If a significant roll rate is detected, the system applies additional countermeasures to enhance vehicle roll resistance.

The off-road enthusiast has the option to switch to two available settings – sport mode and full off-road mode depending on their driving situation. The sport mode shuts off traction control enabling the vehicle to have more yaw movement.

Full off-road mode shuts off all electronic stability programs and the ABS system switches to a special off-road setting. Widening the threshold of sport mode, the wheels will lock more which is helpful in off-road terrain. Also in full off-road mode, the locking rear differential is allowed to stay locked at elevated speeds to mimic a spool differential found on racing trucks.

    – Trailer Sway Control works in conjunction with AdvanceTrac with RSC and can determine from the yaw motion of the truck if the trailer is swaying and take measures – such as applying precise braking or reduced engine torque – to bring both vehicle and trailer under control.
    – Integrated Trailer Brake Controller is factory-installed and allows direct operation of the trailer’s electronic brakes by squeezing the control module on the instrument panel with more confidence than the typical aftermarket system.
    – Electronic Locking Differential uses a true mechanical connection to lock the left and right axle shafts together so both turn at the same speed with the same amount of torque. This switch-controlled feature maximizes traction capability at the wheel with grip, without having to stop the truck.
    – Hill Descent Control on the F-150 SVT Raptor is Ford’s first application of the technology. Utilizing ABS, the driver can control hill descent without applying the brakes. The speed is set for the truck to descend the hill by pushing a button and allows for the driver to concentrate on driving, rather than on how to modulate the brakes on a steep decline.
    – Off-Road Mode engages a third throttle map and a third shift schedule for improved off-road performance. Third throttle map alters the throttle by changing the driver demand table so it is better suited to high and low-speed off-road driving conditions. A third shift schedule is a unique strategy for the off-road environment that holds the transmission in each gear for a longer period of time, allowing better engine throttle modulation to control the vehicle.
    – Auxiliary Switch Board on the center console makes aftermarket customization easier, with four prewired switches attached to the power distribution box for electrical accessories. Also located on the auxiliary switch board are two switches for improved off-road performance – Hill Descent Control and Off-Road Mode.

The F-150 SVT Raptor will be built along side the new F-150 at Ford’s Dearborn Truck Plant at the historic Rouge Center in Dearborn, Mich.

FoMoCo announced today that it will restore the third crew at its Dearborn Truck Plant in January. The move will add 1,000 workers to the plant’s production team of the 2009 Ford F-150.

“Ford is the truck leader and F-150 truck buyers expect and demand the best truck on the market,” said Ford Motor Company CEO and President Alan Mulally, who thanked plant employees for a successful launch of the new F-150. “The employees at Dearborn Truck Plant are delivering a truck that is ‘Built Ford Tough’ with an unwavering focus on quality and craftsmanship.”

Ford has invested $148 million in tooling and equipment upgrades at Dearborn Truck Plant to build the new F-150. The new and improved 2009 Ford F-150 is on sale now with prices starting at $20,345.

Click through for more high-res images.

If you’ve been joining us for the past two weeks, you would think that the plug-in hybrid future is right around the corner. Well for some it’s already here. Envia Motors, a British Columbia company that converts regular gasoline cars into PHEVs says it can get 48 mpg out of a Ford F-150. Envia Motors also says that its F-150 can do 38 miles on electric-power alone.

The technology package converts the F-150 into a range-extending EV with a lithium iron phosphate or military grade lead acid battery pack. When plugged into a 220V outlet the F-150 requires 2 and a half hours to reach full charge allowing for 38 miles without the use of gasoline.

The price? Envia conversions cost between $15,000 to $25,000 depending on range.

Source: Envia (via AutoblogGreen)

FoMoCo has announced the pricing on the 2009 Ford F-150 which arrives in showrooms next month. Yesterday Ford announced that the 4.3L V8 4×2 F-150 is capable of returning an estimated fuel-economy of 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway with the new SFE package.

Pricing starts at $21,320 for the base XL Regular Cab and runs all the way up to $44,860 for the fully-loaded F-150 Platinum series.

You can check out more all the pricing in a detailed chart after the jump along with the press release.

Click through for high-res images.

Press Release:

NEW 2009 FORD F-150: MOST PICKUP FOR THE MONEY

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 18, 2008 – After setting the standard for capability, reliability and quality for 31 years, Ford is now offering even more truck for the money with the new 2009 Ford F-150 – including unsurpassed fuel economy.

“No other truck offers more capability with better fuel economy than the 2009 Ford F-150,” said Matt O’Leary, Ford F-150 chief engineer.  “When the truck hits showrooms in October, truck buyers will see real value.”

The 2009 Ford F-150, now with more standard safety equipment than any other half-ton pickup, offers comparable or better pricing at all three cab configurations versus the competition. The F-150 Lariat SuperCrew, for example, starts at $35,820*, more than $5,000 less than a comparably equipped 2009 Dodge Ram.

The 2009 Ford F-150 also offers more value compared with the current F-150.  With the XLT SuperCrew, customers receive $1,000 more value versus the previous model with the addition of $1,600 in standard equipment for 2009.

The base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for Ford’s workhorse, the XL Regular Cab, starts at $21,320*; and the popular XLT SuperCab starts at $29,160*.

“With the new F-150, we are offering customers more capability and choice with better-equipped trucks at a greater value than the competition,” said Mark Grueber, Ford F-150 marketing manager.  “With the high-volume XLT series, we are able to offer more towing capability, hauling capacity, more standard safety features, industry-exclusive Easy Fuel™ and V-8 power at a starting price of more than a $1,000 less than a comparably equipped competitive truck.”

All 2009 Ford F-150 pickups are equipped with more standard safety features than any other half-ton truck on the market and Ford anticipates that the new F-150 will achieve NHTSA 5-star rating and IIHS “Best Pick.”  Ford F-150 safety features include:

    – AdvaceTrac® with RSC®
    – Trailer Sway Control
    – Anti Lock Breaking System
    – Safety Canopy® side curtain air bags with roll-fold technology for enhanced head protection in rollovers and side impacts
    – Front seat-mounted side air bags with patented K-shape design
    – Personal Safety System®
    – SOS post-crash alert system and new seats and restraints

The Ford F-150 also offers the industry-exclusive Easy Fuel™ capless fuel filler, V-8 power across the lineup and unsurpassed fuel economy of 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway with the new SFE package.

Ford announced today that it is improving the fuel-efficieny on its new 2009 Ford F-150 with significant miles-per-gallon improvements across the F-150 lineup. The 2009 Ford F-150 will go on sales next month with an 8 percent improvement in fuel-economy across the entire lineup – in some cases as high as 12 percent.

Ford is also introducing a new addition to the F-150 lineup with the 2009 F-150 SFE (superior fuel-economy). The SFE package is available on the F-150 SuperCrew XL and XLT 4X2 trucks. Power comes from a 4.3L V8 engine returning a fuel-economy of 15/21 mpg (city/highway).

The Ford F-150 SFE package will cost nothing on the XLT SuperCrew pickups with the chrome package but will cost will cost $1,095 when ordered on a XL SuperCrew pickups with the decor package.

Click through for the high-res gallery and press release.

2009 Ford F-150 SFE:

Press Release:

2009 FORD F-150 UNSURPASSED IN FUEL ECONOMY, CAPABILITY

EARBORN, Mich., Sept. 18, 2008 – America’s best-selling pickup, the Ford F-Series, is raising the bar once again – this time with unsurpassed fuel efficiency on the new 2009 F-150, thanks to significant miles per gallon improvement across the entire F-150 lineup.

On sale in October, the new F-150 offers fuel economy that has improved an average of 8 percent across the entire lineup as a result of a wide-range of engineering enhancements.  The fuel economy gains reach as high as 12 percent versus the prior model year on F-150 models equipped with the high-volume 3-valve, 5.4-liter V-8 engine.  At the same time, the new F-150 delivers class-leading towing capability of 11,300 pounds and hauling capacity of 3,030 pounds – a combination no other competitor can match.

In addition, Ford is announcing the introduction of the new F-150 SFE “superior fuel economy” edition delivering up to 21 miles per gallon on the highway while still providing 7,500 pounds of towing capability – fuel economy that is unsurpassed in the full-size pickup segment.

“Ford has committed to have the best or equal to the best fuel economy with every new product we introduce, and we are delivering with the new F-150,” said Matt O’Leary, Ford F-150 chief engineer.  “Fuel economy has moved from 10th to third place among pickup buyers’ top purchase considerations – right behind durability and value.  The new F-150 delivers on all three as the industry leader.”

F-150 SFE

The new SFE package will be available on F-150 SuperCrew XL and XLT 4X2 vehicles with 4.6-liter, 3-valve V-8 engines and 5.5-foot beds.  The SFE pickup will achieve 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.

The SFE package trucks also feature a new fuel-efficient six-speed automatic transmission, a 3.15:1 rear axle and 18-inch chrome clad aluminum wheels with low rolling resistance P265/60R18 all-season tires.

“Earning the trust of so many truck customers during the past 31 years has taught us a lot about what they want and value from their F-150,” O’Leary said.  “In the past, there was a tradeoff – more fuel economy meant less capability and vice versa.  With the new F-150, we didn’t accept tradeoffs.  We delivered capability and fuel economy.”

The SFE package will be a no-cost option on XLT SuperCrew pickups with the chrome package and will cost $1,095 when ordered on XL SuperCrew pickups with the decor package.

Fuel Economy throughout the Lineup

The 8 percent improvement in fuel economy across the entire lineup of V-8 F-150s is the result of using lightweight ultra-high-strength steel to lighten the truck up to 100 pounds versus the current model and aerodynamic refinements.

The new F-150 is now best-in-class for aerodynamics.  The new F-150 SuperCrew 4X2 with a 5.5-foot box has the lowest coefficient of drag – 0.403 – in the segment.  That’s 6 percent lower than a comparable 2008 F-150.

Key aero improvements for the new F-150 include:

    – A new chamfered shape to the rear of the cab, which incorporated the center-high-mount stop lamp.  This shape helps direct aerodynamic wake over the pickup box efficiently.
    – The top of the tailgate, which angles outward to create a bold lip.  This wider surface at the top of the tailgate works with the cab chamfering to direct airflow over the box efficiently.
    – The front bumper valence and spoiler design, which has been improved to better manage airflow underneath the truck without compromising off-roading.

In addition, as part of the fuel economy improvements, Ford’s powertrain team delivered technology upgrades to make the F-150 powertrains more efficient.

The new six-speed automatic transmission offers a wider gear ratio span than four-speed transmissions, allowing engineers the flexibility to have responsiveness in low gears and better fuel economy in the taller gears.  The new double-overdrive gearbox is designed to contribute a 4 to 6 percent fuel economy improvement.

Both the 5.4-liter and 4.6-liter 3-valve V-8 engines utilize open valve injection.  This unique feature improves the air/fuel charge conditions in the combustion chamber, allowing greater spark advance at higher loads and engine speeds.  This delivers increased horsepower during towing and higher rpm operations, lower emissions and more efficient use of fuel.

The F-150 also regulates gas consumption by using aggressive deceleration fuel shut-off.   The fuel shut-off is automatic and requires no unusual actions from the driver.  When the driver releases the accelerator pedal, the system temporarily turns off the fuel.  The flow of fuel seamlessly resumes when the truck reaches a low speed or the driver accelerates again.

To prevent engine hesitation normally associated with fuel interruption, Ford’s powertrain team developed proprietary software to integrate the technology with the F-150’s powertrains.