Don't Wait For The Next-Gen Ford F-150
Ford has officially pushed back the launch of the next-generation F-150 gasoline and hybrid models by a year.
Key Points
- Ford has postponed the launch of its next-generation F-150 gasoline and hybrid models by a year, with production now set for April 2028
- The delay is largely attributed to uncertainty surrounding potential U.S. tariffs
- The extended lifecycle of the current F-150 could lead to higher dealer incentives to maintain sales, potentially affecting Ford’s profit margins
According to a report from Automotive News Ford has officially pushed back the launch of the next-generation F-150 gasoline and hybrid models by a year, with production now scheduled for April 2028. The current generation truck debuted in 2020, potentially putting pressure on dealers to offer additional incentives to maintain sales.
President Donald Trump recently proposed tariffs as high as 25% on imports, including automotive components and ket materials like steel. While Ford’s exposure to foreign parts is lower than some rivals, the potential impact of such tariffs appears to have made the company hesitant to move forward. Viewed in a different light, the pause could allow Ford to adjust features and technologies based on evolving market demands and regulatory pressures.
The impact on dealerships could be noticeable. With the F-150 remaining on the market without major updates, dealers may need to increase discounts to keep sales competitive.
The F-Series, led by the F-150, remains a cornerstone of Ford’s profitability, having been the bestselling vehicle in the U.S. for over 40 years. In 2024, F-Series shipments rose by 2% to 765,649 units, further cementing its role as Ford’s profit engine.
Ford’s product shuffle doesn’t stop there. A new midsize electric truck, developed in California, is also in the works. CEO Jim Farley teased it last year as a "game changer", promising a Ranger-sized footprint paired with an all-electric powertrain. Built on a new, lower-cost EV platform, this truck is scheduled for a 2027 launch.
Farley has been candid about the hurdles facing large electric pickups, citing weight issues, high battery costs, and towing limitations as “unresolvable” with current technology. In response, Ford is exploring extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs)—a setup where a combustion engine powers a generator to charge the battery, similar to the Ram 1500 Ramcharger launching later this year.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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