Ford is introducing a gas/electric F-150 Hybrid into its 2021 lineup. They say it will be available for purchase this year. If you are concerned that the hybrid may not be as tough or as capable as another F-150, Ford is looking to put you at ease.
The company introduced a twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 F-150 around 10 years ago – many people and customers had serious doubts. Now, the F-150 EcoBoost engines are the most popular choice. Will the hybrid be the most popular in a few years? We will have to wait and see.
Here is the testing regimen that the new 2021 F-150 Hybrid went through. Ford says the new powertrain (that combines a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 and a modular electric motor 10-speed automatic transmission) went through the same rigorous testing procedures and then some. This includes the Borrego desert in California, Michigan proving grounds, Davis Dam grade, and special battery “shaker table” testing.
The new 2021 F-150 PowerBoost hybrid has a power rating of 430 hp and 570 lb-ft of torque. It uses a 1.5 kWh battery that allows full-hybrid operation. It means the truck is capable of driving a limited distance on electric power alone. We will have more details about the hybrid powertrain soon.
Update: We reached out to Ford for more information on the PowerBoost, and here were their responses:
– What is the power output of the electric motor alone?
“We are using 44HP, which is inclusive of losses. 44HP is what ends up in the system power calculations.“
– What distance can the truck drive on electric power alone, assuming the battery is fully charged and under what conditions can the truck drive on electric power alone?
“The answer depends on the state of the battery’s charge and the driving conditions, but in general the 2021 F-150 equipped with PowerBoost can travel limited distances in all-electric mode. The battery is more closely intended to optimize power, torque and fuel efficiency when accelerating from a stop and not travel extended periods in all electric mode.”
The F-150 hybrid comes standard with a 2.4 kW power-inverter / generator capability. The optional inverter has an output of 7.2 kW for an additional $750.
Take a look at the 2021 Ford F-150 pricing overview and the reported extended warranty on F-150 hybrid components.
