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Ford Atlas Concept Debut

A glimpse into the future of Ford trucks

2013 Ford F-150 Research Click to hide

By Matthew Askari | January 18, 2013

What's New

In a dramatic fashion befitting the most popular vehicle sold in America, the Ford Atlas Concept--a first look at the next-generation of Ford's F-150--was lowered from the ceiling of Detroit's Joe Lewis Arena at the 2013 North American International Auto Show. While a lot can change between now and when a production 2015 Ford F-Series actually goes on sale, it is likely to feature a new version of Ford's EcoBoost engines, like the Atlas Concept does. The Atlas also brings start/stop technology, and a whole bunch of small measures that show Ford is paying attention to government fuel regulations, and that of the modern and future truck buyers. There are even unique shutters on the grille and wheels that close at high speeds, adding to the aerodynamics and overall fuel economy. LED headlights and taillights, and a 110-volt plug outlet in the cargo bed for charging power tools all make the Ford Atlas Concept a truly modern pickup.

Who It's For

The Ford Atlas Concept previews the next generation of the Ford F-Series pickups. The Ford F-150 and its siblings have long been the best selling truck in America, and in large part thanks to its versatility; you can take them to the work site, and just about anywhere else. The Ford Atlas raises the bar by making the next generation of the F-Series modern and updated. The Atlas will compete against the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado, which also made its public debut at the 2013 Detroit auto show. The Ram 1500 will give the next-gen 2015 F-150 stiff competition, and the Toyota Tundra and Nissan Titan represent Japanese alternatives.

Key Features

The Ford Atlas Concept previews the future of the F-Series pickups from Ford.

Sleek design inside and out, sporty leather-trimmed seats, LED headlights and taillights.
EcoBoost engine with start/stop technology, and shutters on the grille and wheels that close to help aerodynamics and fuel economy.
Added functionality. Multiple tie-down points, and a 110-volt charger in the cargo bed to recharge power tools.

What We Think

The Ford Atlas Concept is a preview of the 2015 Ford F-Series of pickups. Ford clearly must feel pressure from the competition, seeing as how it's previewing its next-gen F-Series so early. The Ram 1500 was recently awarded the 2012 Motor Trend Truck of the Year, and Chevrolet just debuted a new Silverado. While a lot can change between now and the 2015 model's production debut, Ford is thinking of its future buyer. With several fuel-saving measures, including an improved EcoBoost engine with start-stop technology, and shutters on the grille and wheels that close at high speeds to improve overall mpg, the Atlas represents a step in the right direction. There's also added versatility, such as a 110-volt plug in the cargo hold, and several tie-down spots. Regardless the F-Series will sell well, but only time will tell is the Atlas does enough to hold Ford's market-share.

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