Heavy Equipment Guide Logo

Ford expands hybrid power offering, adds innovative tailgate option for 2024 F-150

A man loading equipment into a pickup bed through a side-swinging tailgate
The Pro Access Tailgate, available on the 2024 Ford F-150, offers easier reach into the truck bed. Ford

Ford's F-Series pickups have been tough, smart, and capable for more than 75 years, and the new 2024 F-150 is no different, designed to enhance the ability to tackle challenges with purposeful features and technology.

A rugged new design that includes the available Pro Access Tailgate gives the 2024 F-150 more access and utility. With a range of models that include increased production of the PowerBoost Hybrid and numerous trim levels and off-road-ready models, the F-150 is ready for use by industries like construction, road maintenance, and many more.

Engine options include popular PowerBoost hybrid

At the heart of the F-150 is a new standard engine, the 2.7-litre EcoBoost, which increases horsepower and torque. Other engine options include a 3.5-litre EcoBoost and 5.0-litre V8 - along with high-performance options for F-150 Raptor buyers.

Also available is the 3.5-litre PowerBoost hybrid option, which Ford says is becoming popular among truck buyers. The hybrid version will be available at the same starting MSRP as the 3.5-litre EcoBoost engine, making it available to more buyers. The PowerBoost offers 430 horsepower and 570 lb.-ft. of torque, the most on any F-Series vehicle outside the Raptor models, Ford states.

PowerBoost hybrid-equipped trucks also come with Ford's Pro Power Onboard as standard. The onboard power system generates 2.4 kW of power, which provides users plenty of time to operate power tools for jobs such as carpentry. A 2.0 kW version is available on gas trucks for lighter uses. For those needing more power, a 7.2 kW option is available that can supply power to a framing crew or mobile metal/welding shop for 32 hours straight, Ford states.

The F-150 is available in a range of models and trim levels, including the Lariat. Ford

Tailgate design improves access to truck bed

The F-150 is built on a fully boxed high-strength steel frame with a high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy body that ensures high payload and towing capacity. New for 2024 is the optional Pro Access Tailgate, which offers a 100-degree fully opened integrated swing gate. Opening from the driver's side, the solution reduces walking distance to the tailgate handle, facilitates operation when towing, and even features a specially designed integrated handle for easy entry and exit of the swing door opening.

Built-in stops on the swinging door ensure that it doesn't bump into other parts of the truck or, when towing, the trailer jack. Users can reach further into the bed compared to a traditional tailgate in the down position, making it easier to retrieve and store items. An available rear bumper step, with added width and depth for the Pro Access Tailgate, is also included in some configurations of the new design. Users can open the simple single-door design with one hand, or can open and close the entire tailgate using the key fob.

Also in the bed is a new storage box located behind one or both rear wheel wells. A heavy-duty locking mechanism protects smaller tools and accessories. This is standard on all models, with users who don't select Pro Power Onboard getting an additional box on the left side of the pickup.

In the cab, large touchscreens provide access to information and entertainment features. Ford

Technology aids drivers both on the road and when trailering

Ford has included 10 standard driver-assist features in the F-150, including its most recent versions of Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping System, and Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert. Users can also access more available driver assist technology such as a 360-degree camera and Ford's BlueCruise hands-free highway driving.

Trailering features include Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, Backup Assist, and Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch. Smart Hitch measures tongue weight to help customers properly hitch up and reduce the possibility of trailer sway when towing. Combined with Onboard Scales, it helps estimate approximate payload weight in real-time.

In the cab, passengers can access the SYNC 4 system through a 12-inch LCD touchscreen that is standard across the lineup and complements a 12-inch cluster screen behind the steering wheel. Or, drivers who want even easier information delivery can opt for a Head-Up Display offered on F-150 for the first time.

Ford will also make the 2024 F-150 the first Ford vehicle in North America to use Stolen Vehicle Services - a connected service that can help locate and aid recovery of stolen vehicles.

Related Articles