The new F-150 – riding a Harley inside a Ford
10 Feb 2009
Continuing its partnership with iconic motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson, Ford Motor Co has introduced a new F-150 truck, the 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150. To be unveiled this week at the Chicago Auto Show, the new model blends the styling of the popular motorcycle brand with Ford's top-selling truck. It is the 14th truck the two companies have designed together.
The vehicle is a niche item for Ford, which has sold 74,000 co-branded trucks since the partnership began in 2000. The collaboration has produced eight F-150 models, as well as six 'super duty' F-250, F-350, and in 2009, the first Harley-Davidson F-450 edition truck.
Ford executives say that while sales of luxury vehicles have fallen off during the recession, 'image buyers' remain. "Image buyers buy based on what the product represents," said Matt O'Leary, chief engineer for Ford, during a preview of the truck last week. "We have a very loyal following."
The truck is powered by a three-valve 5.4L V8 engine, rated at 320hp and 390lb-ft of torque and mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The new F-150 flaunts a bolder front grille, two-tone leather seats, 22-inch performance tires and sports suspension.
The deep red and black leather seats were designed to resemble a Harley-Davidson biker jacket, Ford said. The 2010 Harley F-150 is the first Harley-Davidson edition vehicle built off the 2009 Ford F-150 platform.
Inside, the seats and console lid have been fitted with hand-made Harley-Davidson badges and a limited-edition serialisation plate. It is available with 4x2 or optional AWD, which features settings of 4x2, AWD and 4x4 high, unique to the Harley-Davidson edition on the F-150 platform.
However, experts feel that the 2010 model differs from other F-150 mostly in its appearance, as the engine is no different from that used in earlier models. The major changes are inside, with both interior design and materials having been refined. The 22-inch aluminium wheels are also exclusive to this model, and the sport suspension has been tuned to improve ride and handling with the larger wheels.
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