In late June, Ford debuted their newly redesigned 2021 Ford F-150. With the new features and technology it brings to the light-duty pickup truck class, it promises to usher in a new truck era. 

The new F-150 offers six powertrain options, including a first-time hybrid. There’s dynamic new safety tech across all models like auto emergency braking. The body is still mostly aluminum though all exterior body panels are new. The same steel chassis used for the 2020 models is still here. 

But there are a couple of new additions that you’ll want to check out. The hybrid is an exciting addition, sure, but so in the innovative new Pro Power Onboard electrical generator system.

The new 2021 Ford F-150

According to Car and Driver, the new F-150 is brand new from grille to tailgate, and an electric model is coming in the next year or two. 

With six powertrains, including the new hybrid and three new cab configurations, the new F-150 can be anything you need it to be. Want a luxury cruiser? The upscale models don’t disappoint. Want to do some heavy hauling and towing? The 2021 Ford F-150 can do that too with an anticipated 13,000-pound tow rating.   

While you won’t mistake this Ford F-150 for anything else, every exterior panel is new in the 2021 model. The result is a new, modern look. The size difference is minimal, with a 0.7-inch increase in length since the 2020 models.

An onboard electrical generator

According to PickupTrucks.com, there’s a lot to be excited about with the first-ever Ford F-150 hybrid. 

The hybrid models feature a 1.5-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery that’s liquid-cooled and 35-kilowatt electric motor combination with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain should lend itself well to towing and greater fuel efficiency. It also enables Ford to offer an innovative new feature in the Pro Power Onboard electrical generator system.

The 2021 Ford F-150’s generator system uses an inverter to produce power and converts it into current that can be used to power anything from camping gear to household appliances and electronics. It sends power to outlets in the cabin, and the system has its exclusive panel in the truck bed.

There are three versions of the generator system available. The 2.0-kW system is available with all gas engines except for the standard 3.3-liter V6. There’s also a 2.4-kW version that’s standard on the new hybrid models. There’s also a 7.2-kW system that is only available for the hybrid models.

When in use, the system operates the engine, sending power to the inverter and two 120-volt, 20-amp three-prong outlets in the truck bed. You can get up to 2,000 watts of power, and you can use the system when the truck is in motion or parked. With 2,000 watts available, you can power small appliances, TVs or speakers, and much more.

When you consider the generator system can run all night, it can be controlled by an app on your phone. It’s designed with safety in mind. The Ford F-150 with the pro power onboard electrical generator system is the full-size pickup truck taken to the next level. 

 Other innovative new features

The new 2021 Ford F-150 will feature Active Drive Assist, which lets you drive hands-free on selected highway locations. Built-in sensors will monitor your attention level as you drive. The system will disengage if it determines you’re not paying attention.

When you buy the truck, you can have it equipped with the Active Drive Assist prep kit. Once the software releases in the latter part of 2021, Ford can wirelessly download it at the dealership for a fee.

The latest version of Active Park Assist 2.0 is also included with the 2021 models to help you navigate parking spaces.

The new 2021 models will also feature active aerodynamic features like an automatic front air dam that lowers at 40 mph. There are also grille shutters that shut when you’re cruising.

While a few unknowns are surrounding the new 2021 Ford F-150, we know it is very exciting. The redesign of the truck that’s carried the industry’s standard for decades was sorely needed. Ford’s technology leaps in its new F-150s promise to take the full-size truck segment to the next level.