Ford Motor Company took a major step forward in 1948 when they introduced the Ford Bonus-Built pickup to replace its car-based line of trucks. The move set the stage for generation after generation of F-Series trucks. In 1975, the Dearborn-based automaker recognized a growing need for an affordable blue-collar work truck and released the first F-150. Two years later, the Ford F-150 became America's best selling truck for the next 40 years and later the bestselling vehicle for 35 years. Today, Ford continues to make headlines having sold more than 26 million F-150 trucks and finding new uses for its high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body and 3.5L EcoBoost engine.
The first editions of the Ford F-150 Police Responder with a high-strength fully-boxed ladder frame will roll off the assembly lines in a few months as the industry's first pursuit-rated pickup. Ford's powerful 3.5L EcoBoost engine with 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque will have top speed capability above 100 mph. The Police Responder will feature Ford's 10-speed automatic transmission, two-speed transfer case, 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, and protective off-road skidplates. The vehicle's SuperCrew cab has a redesigned interior to make room for laptops and other essential police equipment.
Ford designed the purpose-built edition of the popular F-150 to give police the ability to pursue vehicles on and off road when patrolling in rural areas as well as mountainous, desert and beach environments. The vehicles front seats are comfortably upholstered in a heavy-duty fabric for comfort and enhanced with protective anti-stab plates. The rear cab area is finished in heavy-duty vinyl seating and flooring to allow for easy cleanup after transporting perpetrators. The Police Responder is a welcomed addition to Ford's line of interceptor, responder and special service sedans, trucks and SUVs.
