History of Ford Trucks | Charleston, SC
Ford has solidified its position as a leading and trusted truck brand in America through a century of innovation and dedication to quality. Celebrated for its best-selling F-150, the robust Super Duty lineup, and the adventurous Raptor, Ford trucks have consistently delivered a blend of performance, comfort, and unwavering reliability. Tracing back to the introduction of the Ford TT in 1917, the journey of Ford Trucks Over The Years showcases a remarkable evolution from their humble beginnings to the sophisticated machines we see today.
Early Pioneers: Model TT and Model AA
Nine years after the groundbreaking Model T revolutionized personal transportation, Ford ventured into the commercial vehicle market with the Model TT in 1917. This first foray into pickups utilized the Model T’s cab and engine as a foundation but distinguished itself with a heavier-duty frame. This robust construction enabled the Model TT to haul an impressive one-ton payload, marking it as a serious work vehicle from the start. Priced at $600, the initial year saw 209 units sold, laying the groundwork for Ford’s future truck dominance.
By 1928, the popularity of the Model TT soared, with over 1.3 million units finding homes across the United States. Ford’s commitment to progress led to the Model TT’s successor, the Model AA. This new model boasted a 1.5-ton chassis and incorporated further design enhancements, increasing its capability and appeal. Ford historian Bob Kreipke aptly described the Model AA’s versatility, noting, “Model AA trucks in particular had a certain class to them. Customers could use them on the farm, yet still take them to church on Sunday,” highlighting their dual-purpose nature for both work and personal use.
The “Built Ford Tough” Era and F-Series Revolution
The 1960s marked a significant turning point in the history of Ford trucks over the years with the arrival of the fourth-generation F-Series. This era ushered in a revolution in truck engineering, most notably with the introduction of twin I-beam suspensions in 1965. This innovation enhanced ride quality and handling, appealing to a broader customer base seeking both work capability and everyday usability. The early 1970s further refined the F-Series with the introduction of an upscale Ranger trim package, adding comfort and style, and the innovative SuperCab option, providing extended cab space for passengers or cargo.
Ford strategically shifted its marketing focus during this period, emphasizing comfort, value, and enduring durability. By offering trucks that balanced daily commuting needs with the strength to tackle demanding workloads, Ford broadened its appeal to a wider audience. This strategic direction culminated in 1977 when a copywriter for a Ford truck magazine coined the now-iconic slogan “Built Ford Tough.” This phrase perfectly encapsulated the modernized F-Series and resonated deeply with truck buyers, becoming synonymous with Ford truck reliability and ruggedness.
Modern Ford Truck Lineup: Super Duty and Raptor
The late 1990s witnessed the expansion of the Ford truck family with the introduction of the F-Series Super Duty line in 1998. Designed specifically for heavy-duty applications, the Super Duty range, encompassing models from F-250 to F-750, catered to the most demanding work needs. As customer expectations evolved, Ford further expanded the F-Series lineup to include luxury-focused trims such as the King Ranch and Limited models. These premium trims incorporated high-end features, advanced SYNC® infotainment systems, wireless connectivity, and impressive towing capabilities reaching up to 15,000 pounds, blending luxury with raw power.
In the modern era, Ford continues to push the boundaries of truck innovation with models like the F-150 Raptor. Uniquely engineered for high-performance off-road driving, the Raptor stands out as the first off-road trophy truck produced by a major manufacturer. This exemplifies Ford’s ongoing commitment to performance and specialized capabilities within its truck range.
Ford’s legacy of building trucks renowned for performance, capability, and refinement continues to this day. For those seeking a truck with a proven heritage of dependable design and enduring quality, exploring the current Ford truck lineup at Palmetto Ford offers a chance to experience the latest chapter in the long and storied history of Ford trucks over the years.
