The Nation’s Favorite Truck Is Far From the Most American
Unfortunately, just because the Ford F-150 is the most popular truck doesn’t mean it’s the most American. This may come as a shock since the Ford F-150 has plenty of heritage and hourly autoworkers, but some parts are assembled in other countries.
What truck is the most American?
Based on the American Made Index (AMI), the most American-made truck is the Honda Ridgeline. This Japanese model has topped the list for three years in a row. The most American-made full-size truck is the Toyota Tundra.
So, that’s two wins for Japanese truck brands. The most ‘American’ American-made truck is the Jeep Gladiator. It’s followed by the Ram 1500. Then, the Hyundai Santa Cruz, Chevy Colorado, and GMC Canyon come ahead of the Ford F-150 Lightning.
The Tundra Hybrid and Nissan Titan are more American-made than the F-150 Hybrid. Then, the Nissan Frontier falls ahead of the gas-powered Ford F-150. But at least it comes ahead of the Ram 1500 Classic, Chevy Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra.
Also, the Ford Ranger is almost the least American-made full-size truck, but it’s ahead of the Toyota Tacoma, which is now assembled in Mexico.
The AMI is based on assembly location, parts content, engine origin, transmission origin, and the United States manufacturing workforce.
Three hundred eighty-eight vehicles were vetted to create the list of the 100 most American-made vehicles, with the Tesla Model Y claiming the top spot.
Ford does have a strong position by employing the most hourly workers and assembling the most vehicles in America, though.
Why is the F-150 so expensive?
The Ford F-150 could be more expensive because it’s the most popular vehicle in America. The F-150 has a stout legacy and has been the most popular truck for over 40 years. It could drive demand because its American history provides more name-brand recognition.
Plus, even if the 2023 Ford F-150’s reliability ranking just took a tumble, the F-150 still has a reputation for being hard-working, rugged, and reliable. It’s seen as a muscular work truck that’s great for towing, off-roading, and play.
It offers a diverse list of configurations to meet various needs. Even without a diesel powertrain, the 2024 F-150 has six powertrains available, including a hybrid setup. There’s also the fully electric Ford F-150 Lightning.
Also, supply and demand play a crucial role. Things are still getting back on track after Covid 19 shutdowns. Trucks have been facing delays due to supply chain shortages, the semiconductor chip shortage, and inflation.
Does the F-150 hold its value well?
The Ford F-150 does maintain a solid resale value, but it’s not the truck with the best resale value. The Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra still maintain more value after five years of ownership.
You can expect an average F-150 model to retain 57.3% of its resale value over five years. The Tacoma is expected to retain roughly 60.6% of its value, so the F-150 isn’t too far behind. It outsells rials by thousands of models, which may lead to more used options on the market.
With more supply to meet demand, prices may drop. If an F-150 depreciates by about 24% over five years, then it could maintain a resale value of about $45,328. This is with a selling price of $59,650 when new and if the truck is in good condition with low mileage.
Stay tuned because trucks move around to different plants each year. The 2024 F-150 could be more American-made than the previous generation.
