In little more than a week, Ford will reveal the face and technology of the 2015 Ford F-150. We already know that extensive use of aluminum will drop as much as 700 pounds off of the curb weight of the new full-size pickup, and now rumor has it that Ford could also debut an all-new, 2.7 liter EcoBoost V6 engine, nicknamed “Nano”, alongside the next-gen truck.
Up until now, the Ford F-150 has had the choice of a 3.7 liter V6, a 5.0 liter V8, and of course the 3.5 liter EcoBoost V6 that promises both performance and fuel economy. Going forward though, fuel economy has become perhaps the most important factor of new vehicles, and Ford is utilizing all sorts of methods of maximize MPGs in the 2015 F150. But while the new F-150 may use active grille and wheel shutters, as seen on the Ford Atlas concept, the buzz around a new EcoBoost “Nano” V6 is even more exciting.
Rumored to make 320 horsepower and 375 ft-lbs of torque, this downsized V6 would slot in nicely between the base 3.7 liter V6 and the larger 5.0 engine. This would likely be the premium fuel economy offerings, and if rumors of massive weight loss are true, the smaller V6 engine could possibly push fuel economy over 30 MPG highway for the 2015 F-150 when combined with other fuel-saving technologies. That said, it will probably still have side mirrors instead of aerodynamic cameras.
The key to the new V6 engine is a twin-scroll turbocharger setup, which uses a smaller turbo at low RPMs that spools up quickly. At higher speeds, a larger turbocharger takes over, allowing for a seamless transition that keeps the power band consistent. With rivals like Chrysler and GM overtaking Ford in the pickup fuel economy race, the Blue Oval is in desperate need of a new contender to entice commercial and private owners that Ford is still the dominant force in full-size trucks.
We’ll find out in a few more days if the 2015 Ford F-150 has what it takes to stay on top in a time of increasing fuel economy and consumer expectations.
Source: Ford Authority
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