One of the most useful things about a truck is its cargo box. The average truck bed is about 6.5 feet in length, though a full-size truck bed can be as long as 8 feet. They can also haul a good deal of weight: when properly equipped, the 2021 Ford F-150 will likely be able to carry 3,270 pounds.

The 2021 Ford F-150 is almost here, and it may be even more powerful in the hauling and towing department. We also got word from Car and Driver that the new truck will have a multifunctional tailgate. Here’s how it works and why it may be a must-have for drivers in a certain industry.

What’s included on the Ford F-150’s new tailgate

The outgoing Ford F-150’s bed already has quite a few useful features. Ford’s BoxLink system is available, which is a set of moveable tie-downs for securing a wide variety of cargo. Other extras include a tailgate step, LED in-bed lighting, and loading ramps. 

All of these options are expected to return for 2021 alongside some new additions. The tailgate now has cleats on either side of it, along with clamp pockets on both ends. This allows drivers to secure something in place even if the tailgate is down.

These features will be standard on all 2021 Ford F-150 trims, but a few extra features can be added as well. You can add in a few pockets that can be utilized when the tailgate is down. These holes are shaped to hold cups, pencils, and even a tablet. 

A usable ruler design can also be printed onto the tailgate. The cargo box also has a built-in generator, and the cab has a fold-out sleeper seat and work surface.

Highly appealing to workers

As you can probably tell, many of these features will be a godsend for construction workers or architects. The built-in clamps allow workers to keep a piece of wood in place while they make cuts. They can use the available integrated ruler instead of finding their own, which can be a big timesaver. 

The holes for tablets and pencils are also incredibly convenient. The holders allow workers to make adjustments or look at plans easily. Additionally, if some overnight work is required, the sleeper seats allow the driver to have a comfortable place to rest.

The 2021 Ford F-150 is definitely not the first truck to have a highly functional tailgate. The Ram 1500 has a tailgate with 60/40 sections that can swing outward, which makes it easier to load items inside. The tailgate can also be lowered the traditional way and both functions can be controlled with a remote.

The GMC Sierra 1500 was released with a standard MultiPro tailgate for the 2019 model year. Using the remote control, you can fold or extend parts of the tailgate to accommodate all sorts of cargo. The tailgate can also act as a workbench or a step for easy access to the truck bed.

However, neither of the Ford F-150’s competitors offer cleats and clamps on the tailgates. While the MultiPro has a useful work surface, it lacks the shallow dips that can hold items.

When will the new 2021 Ford F-150 be released?

Even if drivers just purchase the standard model, the 2021 Ford F-150 should be a great asset for construction workers. The standard XL trim will also have Dynamic Hitch Assist, the Sync 3 infotainment system, and an optional hybrid V6 engine.

The new F-150’s production was slightly delayed due to the coronavirus, but it seems to be back on track now. We expect the 2021 Ford F-150 to be released in the third or fourth quarter of 2020.