Next-gen Ford F-150: Leave the House Behind?

Steph Willems
by Steph Willems

Even before the pandemic and subsequent economic crash, much talk was being made about living in your car. Specifically, the vehicle of choice would be a spacious yet efficient van. It continues to this day in many corners of the Internet.

Ford apparently took this discourse to heart, reportedly adding a new feature to the upcoming 2021 F-150 pickup that makes home ownership unnecessary.

Preferable, yes, but unnecessary.

As Ford readies its next-generation full-sizer for public viewing in late June, Reuters reports that the model will gain a feature sure to make long-distance drivers, nervous campers, and the temporarily homeless cheer.

In addition to the over-the-air software updates awaiting the new model (a feature that should reduce trips to the service bay while keeping the model’s tech somewhat fresh), Ford plans to make like the defunct Nash Motors and offer an in-car sleep solution.

A person with knowledge of the vehicle tells Reuters that buyers can opt for a lay-flat passenger seat that mimics the lounging chairs you’d find in the ritziest airline cabins. “You can basically live in the truck,” the source claims.

Obviously an appealing feature, assuming usage doesn’t overlap with worry about missed payments. It isn’t known on what trims this seat will be offered. If worse comes to worse, you can opt for a low-end model with front bench seat, or just recline the best you can and try to catch some Zzzzs.

Spy photos of camouflaged prototypes reveal an evolutionary styling change, with Ford preferring to keep the radical alterations hidden. That includes the new OVA capability, as well as the hybrid variant slated to join the lineup in short order (a vehicle Ford touts as a mobile power solution). Within two years, customers will be able to get their hands on a fully electric version.

This week, the f150gen14 forum pointed out a teaser image offered alongside the model’s June 25th launch info (see header image above). Clearly, Ford didn’t take Tesla’s Cybertruck for a muse.

[Image: Ford]

Steph Willems
Steph Willems

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  • JMII JMII on Jun 19, 2020

    Given the size of these trucks its likely the interior space is larger then the bedroom in my first apartment. Having internet connectivity gives it another leg up on my first apartment. The price will be close that of my first house so this sleeper cab is starting to make sense.

  • Scott Scott on Jun 21, 2020

    My only question is, Wouldnt it make more sense for the rear bench to fold out into a bed in some fashion, rather than making the front passenger seat a recliner? I have had cars with the front seat the went all the way down, and while you could sleep on them they weren’t entirely comfortable.

  • Dave M. We had a base 2001 model for 6 years and 150k miles. It was perfect for our young family. Still think the design and size of the ‘01 was perfect.
  • Miguel Perrito took to the end to learn its not hecho in china. too many youtube vids out there showing how many bad GM chinese plastic modules fail. just soak em in salt water!
  • ToolGuy A physical switch labeled "I'M DRIVING LEAVE ME ALONE" and I switch it on and it stays on until I sell the vehicle.
  • IBx1 Leave it alone, it already mirrors maps
  • ToolGuy If I ever stop caring about NVH, handling and fuel economy, I'll keep this in mind.
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