News about the next-generation F-150 started circulating online earlier this week. According to the American automaker’s parts suppliers, Ford has decided to delay the launch of the next-generation F-150 until 2028, a year later than originally planned. The current generation has been on the market since 2021, meaning there will be an eight-year gap before a new F-150 arrives. The next generation is now set to debut as a 2029 model—an eternity in the automotive industry, especially for such a competitive and popular truck.
I have to believe that Ford has valid reasons for postponing the launch of its best-selling truck. So far, the company has not released any official information on the matter.
In my opinion, this delay is a matter of development. Ford may need more time to refine the new technologies that will be introduced in the next-generation F-150. Additionally, we know that the automaker intends to reduce the number of parts used in its trucks to improve long-term reliability and lower production costs. This could be one of the main focuses of Ford’s current efforts. In any case, there are several possible explanations for this delay, but I believe the F-150 will remain highly competitive—even if its next generation arrives later than expected.
Lightning Launch Delayed
The gasoline-powered F-150 isn’t the only model affected by this situation. Reports indicate that the launch of the next-generation F-150 Lightning has also been pushed back by a year, meaning it will now arrive in 2027 instead of 2026.
Several industry experts have weighed in, suggesting that current market conditions are to blame and that this situation is anything but normal. The market has evolved significantly in recent years, and public perception of electric vehicles has shifted. Furthermore, government announcements regarding the reduction or removal of EV subsidies have had a noticeable impact on the electric vehicle market. In uncertain times, patience is often the best approach, and Ford is clearly taking a cautious stance here.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
