Ford trucks have come a long way from their simple beginnings, with numerous features and buttons that can be overwhelming for some users. However, there seems to be a new trend towards reducing complexity in a different way, which has already begun.
Ford Super Duty
One notable change is in the 2023 Ford Super Duty lineup, where only the base XL trim is available with two-wheel drive, while all other trim levels are four-wheel drive only. This move towards simplification is one of the first examples that CEO Jim Farley has discussed for some time.
ICE Trucks Aren't Going Anywhere
During Ford’s Q2 2022 earnings call, Farley mentioned that the Ford Blue lineup, which focuses on the ICE side of the business, is too complex in terms of configurations, options packages, and perhaps even trim levels. It makes sense to simplify the lineup if some of these configurations don’t have the sales volume to back up their existence. As a result, multiple options packages and configurations have been dropped for the 2023 F-150, including the Raptor’s standard 400A package, and the Limited is now hybrid only.
Ford F-150 & Ranger
Further simplification is on the horizon for the 2024 model year, as Jim Baumbick, Ford’s vice president of product development operations and quality, recently revealed that “dramatic reductions in complexity” are coming, according to Ford Authority. This is significant news for Ford truck fans, as the F-150 is set to receive a refresh for the 2024 model year, while the next-generation Ford Ranger is also scheduled to launch in North America.
SuperCrew Simplicity
Ford’s mission to simplify its lineup may mean fewer option packages being offered, which could be beneficial in some cases, as many models are available in an overwhelming number of configurations. The regular cab or SuperCab pickup may also start to disappear, as the majority of buyers are opting for SuperCrew cabs. Although some potential drawbacks may arise from this decision, it’s necessary for Ford to reduce complexity to cut costs after posting disappointing 2022 financial results. Reducing complexity is one of the initiatives that Farley will oversee as the company aims to become more profitable while continuing to invest heavily in its EV business.
