Details have been slowly trickling out about the new 2017 Ford Super Duty pickup trucks, and they are impressive. The new trucks will offer a slew of segment-first technology features, increased towing and payload ratings, and of course, an aluminum body.
Naturally, the new Super Duty also has to perform when aftermarket equipment is added to the cargo box, which Ford tested in both the virtual and real world at its Michigan Proving Grounds. Part of the switch to an aluminum body means the addition of an aluminum bed, just like the F-150, which Ford claims is more resistant to dings and dents than steel and is not subject to rust or corrosion. In fact, before Ford engineers headed out to the proving grounds, they tested the new bed structure in the virtual world by running it through super-computer simulations with many different types of aftermarket equipment. This data was used to design the panel shapes in the bed and identify areas where reinforcement might be needed.
After that and with those changes made, it was time to head into the real world at the proving grounds and run the 2017 Super Duty over different types of punishing road conditions, including potholes, off-road terrain and bumpy roads (see video below). Engineers used a variety of aftermarket add-ons, including an all-terrain-vehicle platform, ladder rack and even a salt spreader.
Ford says that even under intentionally harsh road conditions, the box designs held up quite well, with no issues found in the support structure or on the mounting surfaces. Stay tuned for more details on the 2017 Ford Super Duty as they become available or when we get a chance to tag along. The new Super Dutys will go on sale later next year.
Manufacturer images
