The Ford Atlas is a concept pickup truck designed by Ford. Debuted at the 2013 North American International Auto Show, the Atlas was developed as a close preview of the 2015 F-150 (particularly a mix between the Platinum and Limited (the latter's 2016 return) trims).[1] Along with showcasing the transition of the model line to aluminum-intensive construction, the concept vehicle also included additional features to further enhance fuel economy.[1][2] Sized similar to the existing F-150 SuperCrew, the aluminum construction of the Atlas saves approximately 700 pounds over its steel-bodied counterpart (no official curb weight for the Atlas was given).[3]

Ford Atlas
Overview
ManufacturerFord
Also calledFord F-150 Atlas
Model years2013
Body and chassis
ClassConcept pickup truck
LayoutFront engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine3.5 L EcoBoost V6
Transmission6-speed 6R80 automatic
Chronology
SuccessorFord F-Series (thirteenth generation)
2013 North American International Auto Show Detroit, Michigan
Rear ¾ view

In addition to design elements developed to enhance fuel economy (including unprecedented active wheel shutters[1]), the Atlas was also designed with enhanced capability and ease of use.[4][5]

Overview edit

Chassis edit

Alongside the introduction of aluminum-intensive construction for the production F-Series, the Atlas debuted the second generation of the Ford 3.5L twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine. While unchanged in displacement or in the use of turbocharging, the updated engine is primarily distinguished by the introduction of start-stop capability to reduce idling.[1][6]

Exterior edit

Styled as a sharper-edged evolution of the twelfth-generation F-150, the Atlas was fitted with quad LED headlamps and taillamps.[1] Alongside active grille and bumper air dam aerodynamics, the tailgate was fitted with a decklid spoiler. Introducing a redesign of a rear tailgate step, the cargo bed of the Atlas also included a set of hidden cargo ramps for wheeling items into the bed.[1]

Interior edit

Configured with a 5-passenger interior, the Atlas was fitted with leather seats.[6] To improve driving in small spaces, the Atlas was fitted with a 360-degree camera, giving a "birds' eye view" of the vehicle.[6][7] As a truck version of its Active Park Assist parking feature, the Atlas debuted Trailer Backup Assist, allowing drivers to back up a trailer with the turn of a knob;[6][7] Dynamic Hitch Assist uses the backup camera to line up the trailer hitch to a trailer.[6]

References edit

  1. ^ a b c d e f Seabaugh, Christian (January 15, 2013). "Ford Atlas Concept First Look". Motor Trend. Archived from the original on February 8, 2013.
  2. ^ Williams, Mark (November 15, 2013). "2015 Ford F-150 spied, shows resemblance to Ford Atlas concept". Long Island Newsday.
  3. ^ Holmes, Jake (January 15, 2013). "First Look: Ford Atlas Concept". Automobile.
  4. ^ admin (2016-11-17). "2017 Ford Atlas release date, Interior, Exterior and price - Taaxe". Taaxe. Retrieved 2016-11-24.
  5. ^ Chowdhury, Mashfique Hussain (November 2, 2013). "Ford Atlas Concept and F-150 engineers in Dubai". Drive Arabia.
  6. ^ a b c d e Sessions, Ryan (January 2013). "Ford Atlas Concept". Car and Driver.
  7. ^ a b Vlasuk, Zach (January 15, 2013). "Ford Atlas Concept Hints at 2015 F-150 - Detroit 2013". Kelly Blue Book. Archived from the original on January 22, 2013.