Category: Trucks

Oct 18

What to Expect: Pricing for the Fully Loaded 2024 Ford F-250

The 2024 Ford F-250 XL: Starting Strong

For those seeking a robust workhorse without excessive extras, the 2024 Ford F-250 XL is an ideal choice. Priced from $44,970 plus destination, this base model embodies a classic heavy-duty design with its imposing grille and versatile cab options. Under the hood, the standard 6.8-liter V8 engine delivers a solid 405 hp and 448 lb-ft of torque, with an optional 4WD for enhanced capability.

Luxury Meets Power: The 2024 Ford F-250 Limited

The 2024 Ford F-250 Limited represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance in the Super Duty lineup. This top-tier model comes equipped with the powerful 6.7-liter High-Output Power Stroke diesel V8 and a host of high-end features, including leather upholstery, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, and advanced Ford Co-Pilot360 safety technology. The Limited trim’s exterior enhancements, such as LED lighting and 20-inch wheels, set it apart as a premium option for those who demand both style and substance.

Customization Options for the 2024 Ford F-250

Ford offers a range of accessories and packages to tailor the 2024 F-250 to your needs. Options like the $1,705 7.3-liter V8 engine enhance power, while the $995 XL Off-Road package equips the truck with off-road essentials. Additionally, practical add-ons like the $3,855 Ford Performance Parts winch and $445 platform running boards enhance both utility and convenience.

Oct 18

Elon Musk Reacts to Surplus of Ford F-150 Lightning Trucks: Analyzing the Market Dynamics

Surplus of Ford F-150 Lightning Trucks

Recent data reveals a notable surplus of brand-new Ford F-150 Lightning electric pickup trucks at dealerships across the U.S. As of the latest report, there are over 8,000 units of this all-electric model available, significantly surpassing the less than 400 used versions listed. This large inventory suggests a potential mismatch between supply and demand for this highly anticipated vehicle.

Insights from Sales and Production Data

Ford has sold 27,877 F-150 Lightnings since its launch, including 12,260 units in the U.S. through September, showing a strong but uneven demand with a 40% year-over-year increase in sales, yet a 46% drop in the third quarter. This surplus, which constitutes roughly 22% of the total production, might indicate either production overestimates or shifting consumer preferences, exacerbated by recent price adjustments and ongoing production issues.

Market Impact and Industry Reactions

The surplus has caught the attention of industry leaders, including Tesla’s Elon Musk, who expressed surprise on the social media platform X. Ford’s significant price cuts and new discount promotions, coupled with production delays at their Dearborn plant, reflect ongoing challenges in the electric vehicle market. Additionally, General Motors’ decision to delay production at its Orion Assembly plant underscores broader concerns about attracting customers at the current price points and meeting market demand effectively.

Oct 18

Volta Trucks Sees Its US Dreams Crumble As It Files For Bankruptcy

Volta Trucks, the Swedish-based startup that developed a bespoke all-electric urban truck, has filed for bankruptcy in its home country, citing the significant impact caused by the recent Chapter 11 bankruptcy of its battery supplier, US-based Proterra.

Volta revealed its first model, the 16-tonne Zero, back in 2020 and said that production would begin in the United Kingdom two years later with an initial target of 500 units annually and a ramp-up to 5,000 units by 2025.

The second-generation “Production Verification” prototypes went into production at contract manufacturer Steyr Automotive’s plant in Austria in 2022, and earlier this year, Volta showed one of its later “Design Verification” prototypes in the US for the first time during the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in Anaheim, California.

The plan was to sell no fewer than three versions of the electric truck here, including Class-5, Class-6, and Class-7 medium-duty rigs, with the last two versions being based on their European 16-tonne counterpart. These could be ordered with either an ambient or refrigerated cargo box and could travel between 95-125 miles on a full charge depending on the battery setup.

A pilot fleet of 26,000-pound Class-6 and Class-7 trucks was supposed to go into operation toward the end of this year, with US-spec production units scheduled to follow next year, while the smaller, 19,500 lbs Class-5 model was expected to reach US shores in 2026.

The Volta Zero uses an e-Axle that embodies the electric motor, transmission, and axle in a single unit supplied by Michigan-based Accelera, which is a division of Cummins, and the chassis-mounted high-voltage batteries were sourced from California-based Proterra, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in August citing “various market and macroeconomic headwinds” that impacted its ability to scale efficiently.

Volta also pitched the so-called Truck as a Service (TaaS) proposition, which effectively meant that the vehicles would not be owned by its users but rather operated for a monthly fee that includes all the servicing, maintenance, finance, insurance, and training requirements. In other words, a subscription service for trucks.

With sliding doors on both sides of the cab, a wraparound windshield, and a central driving position, the Volta Zero was touted as having very good visibility, while the sliding doors allowed the driver to get out on the sidewalk without potentially hitting cyclists or pedestrians.

Oct 18

Australia’s Love for Big SUVs and Trucks: Are Car Parks Being Overlooked?

Embracing the Big Vehicle Trend in Australia

Living in rural Australia, I’ve observed a growing trend where massive SUVs and trucks dominate the roads, sparking a mix of fascination and concern. While these large vehicles offer impressive capabilities and appeal, their size poses significant challenges for urban infrastructure, particularly car parks. It’s time to consider how the surge in big vehicle ownership might impact everyday conveniences like parking.

The Practical Implications of Larger Vehicles

The shift towards larger vehicles in Australia raises important questions about their impact on urban planning and parking solutions. As more drivers opt for SUVs and trucks, the strain on existing car parks becomes more evident, leading to tighter spaces and increased congestion. Balancing vehicle preferences with practical infrastructure development is essential to ensure that urban areas remain functional and accessible for all drivers.

Oct 18

It Looks Like Ram Is Doomed to Lose Ground to Its 2 Biggest Rivals This Year

With its redesign in 2019, the Ram trucks lineup took the fight for supremacy to both Chevrolet and Ford. While the Ford F-Series’ place atop the sales-figure standings never waivered, Ram took over second place for a time. However, Ram is losing ground to its two biggest rivals in 2023.

2023 Ram pickup truck sales figures

GoodCarBadCar reported U.S. vehicle sales figures for the third quarter (Q3) of 2023 earlier this month. Sorting the data reveals that the Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado saw increasing sales, while Ram lost ground.

So far this year, Ford sold 573,370 F-Series, up 22.70%, and Chevrolet sold 411,758 Silverados, up 8.64%. For comparison, Ram sold 332,441 trucks thus far in 2023, a decrease of 8.44 percent from 2022. Ram must sell 80,000 more trucks than Chevy in Q4 to overtake second place, but that seems unlikely.

Why are Ram’s sales figures slipping?

While Ram was a solid top-three contender for years, its 2019 redesign put it ahead of the Chevy Silverado. In fact, while reviewing the 2019 Ram 1500, Car and Driver called it “the best pickup truck for 2019.” That’s a bold statement about the third-best-selling line of pickup trucks at the time.

In 2019, Ram sold 633,694 trucks combined between the newly redesigned version and the older-style Ram Classic. Ram rival Chevrolet sold 575,569 Silverados, falling behind Ram in sales for the first time. Then, in 2021, Ram sold 39,624 more trucks than Chevrolet to prove the first time wasn’t an accident.

With all of the success enjoyed by Ram’s 2019 redesign, the lack of standard features is a hurdle people must cross when buying a 2023 Ram. U.S. News ranks the 2023 Ram 1500 ahead of the Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado thanks to its low MSRP, upscale interior, confident handling, and comfortable ride. However, consumers continue buying more Fords and Chevys.

Will Ram ever replace Ford or Chevy in the top two?

Considering the historical sales performance of the three brands, it seems unlikely that Ram will ever entirely surpass the Ford F-Series for the top spot. Although, Ram will likely keep dogging Chevrolet for the number two spot, occasionally taking it over for periods.

However, imagine if General Motors decided to bring its two full-size truck brands under one umbrella, something like GM-Series trucks. So far in 2023, GM has sold 216,227 Sierras and 411,758 Silverados, together far outselling the Ford F-Series.

Like Ram, the Chevrolet Silverado also underwent its last redesign in 2019. On the other hand, Ford introduced its fourteenth generation F-150 for the 2021 model year. If Ram wants to regain market share and overtake the Chevy Silverado again, it must present a more attractive package to consumers.

Ram’s most recent strategy of offering an updated version alongside the previous generation Classic seems to have run its course. Consumers appear content with buying a truck loaded with popular options at a higher price instead of a lower base-priced truck and adding options through conflicting package offerings.

Aug 20

Exploring the Legacy of the Mitsubishi Mighty Max: From Workhorse to Collector’s Gem

The Unsung Hero of Pickup Trucks: Mitsubishi Mighty Max

Mitsubishi has long been a trailblazer in the automotive industry, creating vehicles that blend innovative engineering with distinctive style. Among these, the Mitsubishi Mighty Max pickup truck holds a special place. Produced between 1986 and 1996, the Mighty Max was known for its durability and versatility, though it never reached the iconic status of competitors like the Toyota Tacoma or Nissan Frontier. This exploration delves into the attributes and historical significance of the Mighty Max.

The Mitsubishi Mighty Max: A Closer Look at Its Features and Legacy

Though not as widely recognized, the Mighty Max boasted features that catered to the rugged needs of its owners. It was powered by a 2.4-liter engine delivering 116 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque, equipped with advanced features for its time such as electronic fuel injection and dual balance shafts, enhancing engine smoothness and durability. Its exterior was marked by a utilitarian design with practical elements like rubber side moldings for protection and large wheel wells suited for off-road adventures.

Inside, the Mighty Max emphasized functionality over luxury, with a spacious cabin and simple, durable materials. It was available in various configurations including two-wheel and four-wheel drive, with options for different cab sizes and bed lengths, making it adaptable to a range of consumer needs. Despite its strengths, the Mighty Max often flew under the radar compared to more mainstream pickups.

Reflections on the Mighty Max and Its Place in Pickup Truck History

While the Mighty Max may not have been the most popular truck of its era, it has gained a dedicated following among enthusiasts who appreciate its reliability and straightforward design. Reviews from owners highlight its endurance and performance, with many vehicles still in use today, testifying to their build quality. The Mighty Max serves as a reminder of Mitsubishi’s contribution to the pickup truck market, offering a unique blend of practicality and performance that still resonates with a niche group of pickup aficionados.

In summary, the Mitsubishi Mighty Max offers a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of automotive history. While it didn’t achieve the fame of some of its contemporaries, it stands out for its robust engineering and functional design. For those interested in automotive history or in search of a reliable classic pickup, the Mighty Max remains a noteworthy option.

Aug 20

Why the 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road is the Top Choice for Buyers

Overview of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma Trims

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma offers a range of trims to suit various needs, from basic to high-performance. Starting at $28,600, the base SR trim provides essential features and a modest four-cylinder engine, while higher trims like the TRD Pro, priced from $48,035, deliver enhanced off-road capabilities and luxury features. Despite the variety, one trim stands out as the clear favorite among buyers.

The Popularity of the TRD Off-Road Trim

Data from Edmunds reveals that the Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road trim is the most popular among buyers. This trim strikes a balance between price and capability, featuring standard Bilstein shocks, an electronic locking rear differential, and crawl control for off-road performance. It also offers optional four-wheel drive and a multi-terrain select system, making it an appealing choice for those who seek adventure without breaking the bank.

Why the TRD Off-Road is a Smart Choice

The TRD Off-Road’s blend of off-road prowess and value is a major draw for customers. Car and Driver reviewers favor this trim for its robust capabilities and reasonable price, while Edmunds suggests the SR5 if off-roading isn’t a priority. Looking ahead, the redesigned 2024 Tacoma promises even more enhancements, including a new Trailhunter trim with advanced features, but the TRD Off-Road remains a strong contender for those who need a versatile and well-priced option now.

Aug 20

This Ford F-150 Lightning Trip Proves What We Already Know

Range anxiety is a real issue when it comes to electric vehicles like the Ford F-150 Lightning. Typically, EVs provide more than enough range for daily errands and can last for days without being charged. However, Ford CEO, Jim Farley, took the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning on a road trip to discover one issue we’ve already faced.

How fast does the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning charge?

At peak conditions, with a DC fast charger or at a Level three charging station, you can recharge the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning from 15 to 80% in roughly 44 minutes. A Level two charger takes about eight hours to recharge the batteries fully.

You can use a 120V or home outlet to charge the F-150 Lightning, but this method can take days. It only adds about one mile of range per hour.

When Jim Farley took a Ford Lightning on a road trip, he admitted that charging the truck caused a few headaches. This is because the Electrify America charging stations aren’t as dependable as expected.

There aren’t as many fast charging stations available, and we’ve often found that the charging stations are down. We’ve arrived at a few different charging stations with issues and had to move to other locations.

If the charging network was up, sometimes the DC fast charging stations weren’t functioning correctly, so we had to settle for Level 2 charging instead.

Jim Farley can relate because, near Tesla Superchargers, he had to use a low-speed charger that only delivered about 40% of charge after 40 minutes.

He shared that charging has been challenging, and the road trip was a good reality check about the issues Ford customers face and the importance of fast charging. He shared that improvements need to be made.

Can you charge the F-150 Lightning at a Tesla station?

Soon, people can charge their 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning trucks at Tesla Supercharger stations. Ford partnered with Tesla to provide Ford EV customers with access to over 12,000 Telsa charging stations.

But the Tesla stations won’t be available until the spring of 2024. A Tesla-developed adaptor will allow the F-150 Lightning, Mustang Mach-E, and E-Transit vehicles with the Combined Charging System (CCS) port to access Tesla Superchargers.

Software integration and payment will be made through the Ford Pass or Ford Pro Intelligence apps. Electric Ford vehicles will be built with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector to eliminate the need for an adapter to connect to Tesla stations.

Can you charge the Ford Lightning at home?

Yes, you can charge the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning at home. It comes with an adapter that connects to a regular home outlet. But this is the slowest method of charging, and it could take three to four days for a full charge.

The Ford Charge Station Pro comes standard with the Extended Ranger F-150 Lightning models. It’s available with the Standard Range trucks for $1,310. Don’t forget about the installation fee from your local electrician.

This method provides faster Level Two charging times. Plus, it allows you to use the truck to power your home if needed.

Also, the available Mobile Power Cord with a 240V connector costs $470. You can take it with you as you travel, and it works with regular home outlets and 240V NEMA 14-50 outlets.

Be sure to top off your Ford F-150 Lightning before taking a road trip. We’ve been stranded due to malfunctioning charging outlets and slow charging times. Stay tuned because Ford is working to correct this issue.

Aug 20

What Ford F-150 Owners Love Most After 90 Days: Insights from J.D. Power’s 2023 Study

Key Highlights from the 2023 J.D. Power APEAL Study on the Ford F-150

The 2023 J.D. Power APEAL study reveals what Ford F-150 owners appreciate most about their trucks just 90 days after purchase. Top highlights include impressive fuel economy, user-friendly infotainment screens, and effective headlights. When compared to rivals like the Chevy Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500, these features set the F-150 apart in terms of owner satisfaction.

What Owners Appreciate Most

Ford F-150 owners have expressed strong approval for their truck’s fuel efficiency, achieving 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway in the Lariat trim. This surpasses the 2023 Chevy Silverado’s 19 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, though the Ram 1500 is close with 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. Additionally, the F-150’s infotainment options are notable, with an 8.0-inch screen standard on lower trims and an optional 12-inch display on higher trims, outperforming the Ram 1500’s smaller screens but trailing the Silverado’s largest 13.4-inch display.

Another aspect Ford owners appreciate is the F-150’s headlights, which have been rated highly for their effectiveness. This is in stark contrast to the Silverado, where headlights were a noted drawback. The Ram 1500’s headlights are rated ‘Good’ by the IIHS, indicating strong visibility but not necessarily surpassing the F-150’s performance.

Understanding J.D. Power’s APEAL Study

J.D. Power’s APEAL study surveys vehicle owners around 90 days after purchase to assess their emotional connection and satisfaction with their vehicles. The study evaluates 37 aspects of vehicle performance, from comfort to driving exhilaration, compiling data to highlight what drivers love and what they wish could be improved. This year’s results place Ford F-150 among the top performers in terms of owner satisfaction, particularly excelling in fuel economy, infotainment, and headlight performance.

Ratings and Overall Satisfaction

The Ford F-150 scored well across key categories, including Quality and Reliability (86/100), Driving Experience (83/100), Resale Value (81/100), and Dealership Experience (79/100). These scores reflect a high level of satisfaction with the truck’s reliability, driving comfort, and resale potential. Overall, F-150 owners are pleased with their purchase, valuing its efficiency, advanced features, and driving experience.

Aug 20

Exciting Updates Coming to the 2024 Ram 1500

The current Ram 1500 has long held its position as a leading pickup truck, but a refreshed model is set to make its debut in early 2024. Known for its extensive trim options, impressive interior, and powerful engine choices, the Ram 1500 has maintained its popularity. However, it’s been since 2019 that the truck saw significant updates, making the upcoming changes highly anticipated.

What to Expect from the New Ram 1500

Recent spy shots reveal a heavily camouflaged Ram 1500, hinting at the upcoming redesign. The new model is expected to debut in Q1 2024, potentially at the L.A. Auto Show, as reported by the Detroit News. Early indications suggest updates will include changes to the grille, headlights, tailgate, and bumpers, giving the truck a refreshed look.

Interior and Engine Updates

While Ram has been tight-lipped about interior changes, it’s notable that the current model is praised for its luxurious cabin. It’s possible that the new Ram 1500 will feature updated technology, although specifics remain under wraps. On the engine front, there are rumors of a new twin-turbo straight-six option from Jeep, potentially offering up to 510 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque.

Timing and Pricing

Although the updated Ram 1500 will be unveiled in early 2024, it’s unclear if these updates will be available for the 2024 model year or if they will be reserved for 2025. Ram’s website currently lacks details on the 2024 model, suggesting potential updates may be included. As new trucks become more advanced and complex, expect potential price increases; it’s wise to prepare for higher costs as technology and features continue to evolve.