Ford Makes 2021 F-150 More Eco-Friendly With Digital Owner’s Manual

Posted on October 16, 2020October 16, 2020 by Kamil Pietrzak

The Ford F-150’s First Digital Owner’s Manual

We’ve covered Ford’s 2021 F-150 equipped with the 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid engine extensively already, without even seeing it. We’d be lying if we weren’t excited about the first full-size hybrid truck that doesn’t just provide greater fuel efficiency, but also better performance than most other powertrain options. A hybrid powertrain isn’t the only steps Ford is taking to reduce their carbon footprint and be more eco-friendly, however, they’re also making the 2021 F-150 Owner’s Manual completely digital. Instead, a small manual will provide critical information that should always be accessible, while a digital copy is available from the digital center console display screen.

Advantages of the 2021 Ford F-150 Digital Owner’s Manual

Find What You Need Faster

The digital 2021 Ford F-150 Owner’s Manual will be more convenient to access than ever before. All your vehicle’s information is at your finger tips. By simply using the center display anyone who sits up front can access the owner’s manual. To find the information you need quickly, Ford integrated a search capability where you can search for key words and pull up the information you need immediately. For those of us that are tech-savvy, this definitely beats flipping through a book.

Never Lose Another Owner’s Manual

Have you previously bought a pre-owned truck that wasn’t equipped with an owner’s manual? For some reason, I never remember to check if an owner’s manual is present, despite how thoroughly I look over the rest of the truck. A digital owner’s manual means as long as the truck can operate, and the center console works, there is an owner’s manual present.

More Environmentally Friendly

The small change of a digital 2021 Ford F-150 Owner’s Manual results in a massive, positive environmental impact. This change leads to a reduction of paper use by 290 tons per year. To put that in perspective, 290 tons of paper equals the weight of 122 average 2021 Ford F-150 pickup trucks. If that paper was stacked one on top of the other, it would lead to a pile of paper that is 18,000 feet tall. That saves a lot of paper!

2021 Ford F-150 Digital Owner's Manual — Graphic Provided by Ford Media.

Potential Digital Owner’s Manual Issues

A digital owner’s manual is a good idea for a number of reasons. It’s better for the environment, and it makes accessing vehicle information easier and faster. But what if it’s not easier for everyone? We worry that some elderly 2021 Ford F-150 truck owners will have a tough time adapting to digital owners’ manuals. Not everyone is good with technology, so it could be a potential issue. On the bright side, there is a physical supplement manual. It’s about 25% of the size of the original owner’s manual, and it has the most important information included inside of it.

Another issue is that if your vehicle is not operating, you won’t be able to access your owner’s manual. You could also lose access if your center console display screen is broken. Books can be replaced for less than $100. Replacing a digital display screen is much more costly than that.

Overall Thoughts

Despite the few potential issues, the new digital owner’s manual is a, overwhelmingly positive change. We’re looking forward to seeing other manufacturers switch over and use digital owner’s manuals as a way to improve user experience while simultaneously reducing waste.

Learn More About the 2021 Ford F-150

Check out some of our other posts and resources about the new 2021 Ford F-150. Click on one of the links below to learn more.

2021 Ford F-150 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid Performance Specs Revealed

Posted on October 7, 2020October 7, 2020 by Kamil Pietrzak

Ford just released their performance specs for the 2021 Ford F-150. Six different engine options are available in 2021 including the 3.3l V6, 2.7l EcoBoost, 3.5L EcoBoost, 3.0L V-6 Powerstroke Diesel, 5.0l V-8, and the highly anticipated 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid. The PowerBoost is Ford’s first attempt at a hybrid full-size truck. Will it meet expectations though? Some folks are concerned about durability, especially considering it has an electric motor and a battery. Fortunately, Ford released how they’re making sure this new hybrid variant is just as durable as their other models. They’re putting the 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid through the same rigorous durability and reliability tests that Ford’s other F-150s have to go through. What about Performance though? What are the F-150 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid’s performance specs and how do they compared to their diesel and gasoline-powered counterparts?

3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid Performance Specs

Ford made it crystal clear the PowerBoost is not just an option for eco-conscious truck owners looking to save at the gas pump. The 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid F-150 is Ford’s most capable F-150, by far. At 430 Horsepower and 570 ft-lbs of torque, it outshines even the popular 3.5L EcoBoost turbocharged engine. The 2021 3.5L EcoBoost offers the second best overall performance in the F-150 lineup with 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. While there’s only a 30 horsepower difference between the two, the 70 extra lb-ft of torque with the PowerBoost is significant.

Here is a chart comparing the 3.5L PowerBoost to their other powertrains in both standard and towing performance.

Engine	Horsepower	Torque
3.3L Ti-VCT V6	290 @ 6,500 rpm	265 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
2.7L EcoBoost V6	325 @ 5,000 rpm	400 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
5.0L V8	400 @ 6,000 rpm	410 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm
3.0L Powerstroke Diesel V6	250 @ 3,250 rpm	440 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm
3.5L EcoBoost V6	400 @ 6,000 rpm	500 lb-ft @ 3,100 rpm
3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6	430 @ 6,000 rpm	570 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm

2021 Ford F-150 Powertrain Performance Specs

Other Powertrain Improvements for 2021

Two of the returning engine options, the 5.0L V-8 and the 3.5L EcoBoost will provide slightly better performance compared to previous years. The 5.0L V-8 engine gains 5 horsepower and 10 lb-ft of torque compared to the previois model year. The 3.5L EcoBoost has 25 more horsepower and 30 lb-ft more torque.

Towing & Payload Information

Despite the extra power however, the 3.5L PowerBoost isn’t the top rated powertrain in the F-150 Lineup when it comes to tow capacity. 3.5L Powerboost models have a max tow capacity of 12,700 pounds. This is below the 3.5L EcoBoost engine’s max tow capacity of 14,000 pounds. Max payload for the 3.5L PowerBoost is 2,120 pounds. This is also significantly lower than the 3.5L EcoBoost at 3,250 pounds or the 5.0 V-8 model at 3,325 pounds. What the 3.5L PowerBoost lacks in the towing capacity is vastly made up because of it’s superior technological performance.

2021 Ford F-150 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid Performance Specs — The 2021 Ford F-150 Max Tow capacity is 14,000 pounds.That’s 800 pounds more than 2020 models. Max payload for an F-150 is 3,325 pounds. Photo courtesy of Ford Media.

Here’s how the 3.5L PowerBoost compares to other powertrain options in max tow capacity and max payload.

Engine	Max Payload	Max Tow Capacity
3.3L Ti-VCT V6	1,985 lbs	8,200 lbs
2.7L EcoBoost V6	2,480 lbs	10,100 lbs
5.0L V8	3,325 lbs	13,000 lbs
3.0L Powerstroke Diesel V6	1,840 lbs	12,100 lbs
3.5L EcoBoost V6	3,250 lbs	14,000 lbs
3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6	2,120 lbs	12,700 lbs

2021 Ford F-150 Powertrain Towing Specs

Versatility and Job Site Performance

While high horsepower and torque numbers get everyone excited, we’re more excited about the versatility and job site performance of the new F-150. Pro Power Onboard, a new feature, acts as a portable on-board generator that provides up to 18x more exportable power than Ford’s nearest competitor. Just think, no more searching around for outlets at a customer’s home, or having to pull out the extra long extension cord. You can now power tools from the bed of your truck. Tailgate and interior work surfaces make work easier inside and outside the vehicle. The F-150 also comes available with a 4-G LTE modem that offers a mobile hotspot for connectivity away from the office.

Learn More About the 3.5L PowerBoost

Want to find out more about the 3.5L PowerBoost hybrid? Check out some of our other Powerboost Posts and resources by clicking on one of the links below or related posts in the sidebar.

3.5L PowerBoost Specs

2021 Ford F-150 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid Reliability

Posted on October 6, 2020October 7, 2020 by Kamil Pietrzak

How Ford is Testing the 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid to Make Sure It’s Built “Ford Tough”

Ford is releasing the new 2021 F-150 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid this fall. It’s been eagerly anticipated by many people because it’s Ford’s first full-size hybrid F-150 truck. A couple of weeks ago, the 3.5L PowerBoost’s performance specs were released and they definitely exceeded our expectations. At 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque, the Powerboost Hybrid definitely has enough power to get the job done, but what about durability? Truck owners often use trucks for work, offroad adventures, or heavy towing. For that reason, a truck needs to be heavy duty. While we haven’t tested the new Hybrid F-150 for ourselves yet, Ford just released some promising information on the steps they’re taking to assure its dependability. Here’s what we’ve learned about Ford’s process for testing the F-150 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid’s reliability and dependability.

2021 Ford F-150 PowerBoost — Rolling Shot of the new 2021 PowerBoost F-150
Photo Courtesy of Ford Media

Torture Testing the 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid

Craig Schmatz, Ford F-150 Chief Engineer, sums it up best by his statement, “Just because it’s a hybrid, doesn’t mean we treated the Powerboost with kid gloves”. True to his word, Craig, along with the other F-150 engineers, test the 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid to the same standards as Ford’s other pickup trucks. No punches are pulled, because Ford want’s to make the F-150 a viable option for those looking for a hard working truck. In fact, to address concerns about the electric motor and the battery on the new hybrid F-150, an extra test was designed to make sure the hybrid powertrain is capable of withstanding significant “torture”. Here’s what Ford’s engineers put the new F-150 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid through to test reliability.

Offroad Testing – Borrego Springs, California

Borrego Springs is Ford’s favorite testing site for offroad capability. Ford F-150 engineering manager, Dawn Piechocki, describes it as the “Worst Case Scenario”. Why does she call it this? Well, this environment subjects the F-150 PowerBoost to extreme high temperatures, mountainous terrain, deep caverns, sand, slippery rock, and high elevations. She further explains that the new 3.5L Powerboost Hybrid F-150 has to perform in the same conditions and meet the same standards other F-150 powertrains.

Offroad Testing 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid — Photo Courtesy of Ford Media

Durability – Michigan Proving Grounds – Romeo, Michigan

In 3 months of testing, Ford’s engineers are able to simulate 10 years of real world driving. The Michigan Proving Grounds are the F-150’s “Hell Hole”. In order to test durability, the F-150 has to undergo a number of painful obstacles. These obstacles are so demanding and deadly, that often the tests have to be completed by robots instead of humans. One of Ford’s engineers described it as running over potholes and bumps continuously for three months. The Proving Grounds are the ideal test for the F-150 3.5L PowerBoost’s underbody, suspension, and overall durability.

Michigan-Proving-Grounds-F-150-Hybrid — Photo Courtesy of Ford Media

Battery Testing – Akron, New York

A special torture test was designed to test the battery’s durability. Described as a “mechanical bull on steroids”, the battery torture test uses a custom testing machine to simulate harsh driving conditions on the battery. This test puts the battery through 10 years of life in only 82 hours. If you’re going to make the F-150 a powerful, portable generator, it needs to be able to make it to and from the job site and still be able to power tools and devices. This test alleviates some of our worries about battery durability.

Battery Durability Testing 3.5L Powerboost Hybrid — Photo Courtesy of Ford Media

Towing – Davis Dam, Arizona

To test F-150 3.5L PowerBoost towing capabilities, Ford brought the Powerboost to Davis Dam in Arizona. The Davis Dam is one of the most difficult towing feats in the United States. This is because it’s an 11.4 mile slope that climbs 3,500 feet, with an average 6 percent grade and treacherous heat. What better way to test the 3.5L Powerboost’s 12,700 pounds of tow capacity? Ford’s engineers had the F-150 3.5L Powerboost continuously traveling up and down the dam to fully test the hybrid powertrain, cooling systems, and overall towing reliability.

Watch Ford F-150 3.5L PowerBoost Testing

Ford on Torture Testing the New F-150 Equipped with the 3.5L Powerboost Engine

Our Take on F-150 3.5L PowerBoost Reliability

While we’re reserving final judgement until we test these vehicles out ourselves, the 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid looks promising. It’s fantastic to see Ford testing these trucks like any other full-size truck. Just because this truck is a hybrid, it shouldn’t be given a pass. This is especially true if contractors and commercial users are the primary target market of the PowerBoost. All the cool gadgets and technology in the world won’t make this truck successful if it’s not durable. If the PowerBoost isn’t up to the tasks demanded of the standard pickup, it won’t be successful in the F-150 lineup.

The ultimate test won’t happen until these vehicles hit the road though. Stay tuned for our comprehensive 3.5L PowerBoost Review coming soon. You can also visit our 3.5L PowerBoost Specs Guide for more information about features and capabilities of these trucks.

2021 Ford F-150 Pro Power Onboard — Pro Power OnBoard and the TailGate Work Surface: Two new features of the 2021 Ford F-150

4 Best Rivian R1T Electric Truck Features

Posted on March 17, 2020March 17, 2020 by Kamil Pietrzak

What are the best features of the Rivian R1T Electric Truck?

The Rivian R1T electric truck is already making a name for itself with its functionality and futuristic design. Unlike Tesla’s Cybertruck, it looks like a true pickup. It gives truck owners a significant improvement over the standard internal combustion engine without forcing them to buy a spaceship. The quad electric motors make the Rivian R1T capable, and make maintenance easy. Overall, the cost of upkeep is lower and you don’t have to empty your wallet at the gas pump. The benefits of an electric truck are obvious, but what features make the Rivian R1T electric truck a standout compared to other pickups? Keep reading to find out the 4 best Rivian R1T features.

1. Storage

Traditionally, the bed of a pickup truck is where you store your cargo. I never find myself with enough dry storage though. Especially when i’m traveling with family or friends. You can put a tonneau cover on your truck, but then your truck loses cargo space or utility. This is where the Rivian R1T really shines. There is front trunk space, a gear tunnel, and the bed that can all be used for storage. Because of the lack of an internal combustion engine, many electric trucks will come with front storage. The bed is also standard on any pickup. The Gear tunnel is really unique however. It reminds me of storage found on Campers or RVs. By opening a latch you have access to a lockable storage “tunnel”. Who doesn’t love more space to put your tools?

2. Utility

While the Rivian R1T looks like a luxury truck, engineers built it for work. It has an 11,000 lb towing capacity, which is on-par with most half ton trucks. When you compare it to fuel efficient models like the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, GM 1500 3.0L LM2 Duramax, or the F-150 with the 3.0L Powerstroke engine, it’s very competitive. It’ll give you roughly the same tow capacity for a fraction of the fuel cost. Towing is just one aspect of utility though.

Some of the best Rivian R1T truck features are found in the bed. The R1T has three 110v plug-ins, it can hold compressed air, and it has lockable in-bed storage. I’m ecstatic about the spare tire being located in a bin underneath the bed. I’ve had the spare tire lowering mechanisms seize on my work trucks and vans, rendering the spare tire useless. Another feature is the flexible crossbar system that can adjust to mount storage on the bed, on the bed floor, and on the cabin roof. Check out the pictures below!

Rivian R1T Utility Features — Bed utility is a major feature of the Rivian R1T. Check out the

Rivian R1T Spare Tire Location — Bed utility is a major feature of the Rivian R1T. Check out the

3. Offroad Capabilities

Engineers built the R1T with owners who want to explore untravelled roads in mind. Key Rivian R1T offroad features including all-wheel drive, an adjustable air suspension, and adaptive damping control make navigating back country roads and trails a breeze. All-wheel drive is powered by four electric motors. This helps maximize traction in muddy, snowy, or wet conditions. Adjustable air suspension helps improve both on-road and off-road performance. It allows the vehicle to lower to become more aerodynamic or rise to increase ground clearance. This is a big contributor to the R1T’s 3 foot water fording ability. The last offroad feature is adaptive damping control, which makes adjustments in a fraction of a second to improve traction and comfort.

Rivian R1T Electric Truck Offroading — Conquer Offroading – Photo Courtesy of Rivian

4. Performance

Despite driving a pickup truck every day since I started driving, I love to go fast. Big trucks take some effort to make them go quick, but once they’re fast and fun to drive, you’re paying for that fun at the gas station. The Rivian R1T has 829 lb-ft of torque, up to 750 horsepower, and a max 0-60 speed of 3 seconds. That’s in the ballpark of some super cars. Driving a truck doesn’t mean you have to drive a slug. The R1T is so capable, and even though I haven’t driven one yet, I relish the chance.

Electric Truck Resource | Your go-to electric truck experts

Author: Kamil Pietrzak