The Aerodynamics of the 2015 Ford F-150
It’s been a staple look of the F-150 since the Eleventh Generation came into production. The squared-up, tough look is part of what makes the F-150 feel capable and rugged. This design also can play a crucial role in the aerodynamic properties that influence the fuel economy of the 2015 F-150.
The designs added have not only improved the looks of the truck, but have helped make the F-150 more fuel efficient and suffer less in Noise, Vibration, and Harshness. Let’s take a look at some of the interesting features.
The first feature is one you probably won’t see right away. Underneath the headlights is a little channel that blends the air into the wheel well and allows the air to flow smoothly, rolling around the tire and into the body air.
The windows feature a molding-less design that reduces the drag on the windshield around the A-pillar, reducing noise and improving the air flow going over the windshield. The squared up look of the front of the F-150 may seem less efficient, but in reality is a very smooth design that allows air to flow around the truck in a way Ford Engineers are looking for.
Heading to the back, the bed is actually narrower than the body and a trim piece prevents air from creating drag by being caught between the bed and the body. The tail-lamps and rear-most portion of the bed are angled for maximum wind efficiency. Finally, there is a piece on the tailgate top designed to act as a spoiler, giving air that flows off the roof a place to land before smoothly trailing off and reducing turbulence behind the truck.
“The shapes, lines, angles and motifs are much stronger on the all-new F-150, and the chiseled edges convey toughness,” said Brad Richards, Ford F-150 exterior design manager. “The hallmark beltline along the outside mirrors is the strongest piece of Built Ford Tough DNA. That’s inspired by heavy equipment such as cranes and bulldozers. It looks good, but it also improves driver visibility.”
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