Today, Ford announced its newest version of its F-150 pick-up truck for the 2021 model year. Utility fleets' favorite truck will be equipped with never before seen options — including full hybrid power.

It's full hybrid F-150 option will store energy in large battery packs and be powered by stronger motors when moving at slower speeds or under light loads, without the need for the internal combustion engine to run simultaneously. Fleets will be the judge of whether this new line of pick-up trucks can replicate the same towing and hauling tasks that its current internal combustion engine powered trucks perform.

"Today's news from Ford supports a strong directional focus for the commercial fleet industry. I think it will be important to tune in as hybridization provides a key look into the future of fleet technology. The up-sides of hybrid vehicles can include improved performance and better fuel economy, and down-sides should be relatively minimal for fleets. It's also a big stepping stone for pick-up and service vehicle electrification, which could be right around the corner."

- Chris Shaffer, CEO, Utilimarc

The Ford F-150 is the chosen light body pick-up truck for most Utilimarc customers and fleets within the utility and municipality space.

Most people tend to associate hybrid vehicles with smaller, lighter duty models that are not designed for heavier work loads. However, with Ford's new F-150 model, they are setting themselves apart from their competitors by pushing the boundaries and setting the standard for other brands to pursue hybrid or fully-electrified models in the future.

To learn more about the Ford F-Series models in the fleet space, speak to an analyst today.