Dearborn, Mich. – When you think of Ford, trucks are probably one of the first things to cross your mind. That’s understandable, considering the Dearborn-based automaker has built its empire primarily with pickups. Today marks the 100th anniversary of the start of Ford trucks. It’s been quite a journey.
Just a mere nine years after the Model T launched, Ford rolled out the Model TT. This first pickup delivered the kind of utility people wanted and needed.
If you’re observant enough, you’ll notice the cab is the same as the Model T. The same thing goes for the engine.
Where the Model TT really shined was its heavy-duty frame. It could handle one ton in the payload, making it a true workhorse. The truck could also accept third-party upfits, making it more useful to specialized industries.
Back when it debuted in 1917, the Model TT cost a mere $600. Despite a slow launch with only 209 sold that year, it got the ball rolling.
The Model AA and Model BB followed. Then came along the Model 50, which used the Ford Flathead V8, solidifying its legendary status.
When 1941 rolled around, Ford had placed over 4 million trucks in customers’ hands. But with war raging, the company switched from making consumer vehicles to fueling the military.
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Once World War II ended, Ford started applying what it learned from making heavy-duty military trucks and four-wheel-drive troop carriers for civilian uses.
In 1948, the F-Series launched. The F-1 through F-8 range covered many needs, and became popular in urban centers as well as in rural America. The second generation brought more power and capability in 1953.
With each passing generation, Ford improved the F-Series. It pushed an evolution in pickups from things of pure utilitarianism to vehicles that are sleek and more comfortable. As a market leader, Ford was able to greatly influence the trends we see with pickups today.
The current F-Series lineup is the most diverse ever. You can get a hardcore off-road racer with the Raptor, or opt for a ultra-lux F-150 King Ranch. Aluminum body panels, EcoBoost technology, and other changes are pushing the boundaries further.
Of course, Ford’s using this opportunity to remind everyone of its success. After all, the F-Series has claimed the best-selling truck slot for 40 years in a row. It’s also been the best-selling vehicle for 35 years straight, at least according to the company’s count.
It’s a tremendous legacy, one that Ford doesn’t mind celebrating.
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