2023 Ford F-Series Super Duty Enhances Power and Connectivity

While the Ford F-150 is making headlines with its electric vehicle, the next generation of heavy-duty F-Series Super Duty trucks and chassis cabs are sticking to gas and diesel engines. New technology and connectivity options promise to make work easier for small businesses and fleets.

Ford unveiled the 2023 Super Duty on Tuesday with two new engines, improved hauling and towing, and a full suite of connectivity features for businesses.

The new base engine is a 6.8-liter V-8 based on the available 7.3-liter V-8. It has a smaller bore and stroke than its larger mate, and although Ford has not yet shared specifications, it expects to make 385 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque more than the outgoing 6.2-liter V-8. It will also feature a 10-speed automatic transmission in place of the 6-speed automatic transmission.

Ford also did not disclose the power of the 7.3-liter V-8 engine. However, Ford has stated that it is targeting best-in-class gas horsepower and torque, thanks to new air intakes and better cooling. It will also be mated to a 10-speed automatic, as will the carryover 6.7-liter diesel V-8 engine. Last year's base version had 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft of torque, while the higher output version will feature a new turbocharger, upgraded exhaust manifolds, and revised tuning. According to Ford, the diesel will also have longer oil change intervals.

The new Super Duty will use the same ladder frame as the current model, but with minor changes to make it slightly stiffer. However, Ford says it has upgraded the rotors and calipers to accommodate the best-in-class towing and hauling capabilities it aims for. It will handle conventional towing as well as fifth-wheel and gooseneck design towing.

The exterior is an evolution of the current imposing truck. The grille now surrounds the C-clamp headlights, and there are seven different grille design and finish options, depending on the model. Large side steps, steps in front of the rear wheels, and bumper steps at the rear corners are included. A camera and rear parking sensors have been added to the tailgate, allowing the driver to use the rearview camera and parking sensors when backing up with the tailgate down.

The F-250 and F-350 lineups will again include regular, extended cab, and crew cab body styles with 6-foot-9 and 8-foot bed lengths.

The model lineup will consist of XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited trims with progressively higher equipment levels; four-wheel drive will be standard on all but the XL. Ford will also offer three off-road packages, including the new XL Off-Road Package and the Tremor Off-Road Package. The Tremor package includes a front end lift, off-road suspension tune, 35-inch Goodyear tires on 18-inch wheels, Dana front axle with limited-slip differential, skid plates, and water-soaking capability. Included are axle vent tubes for improved water immersion capability, and Ford's Turn Assist system, which locks the tires to one side to help the truck turn in slippery off-road conditions. A Ford Performance 12,000-pound Warn winch will be optional.

Inside, the new Super Duty will offer an 8.0-inch touchscreen on the XL and a 12.0-inch touchscreen on other models. Trucks will offer a 12.0-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless smartphone charging, a driver's seat that folds nearly flat like a futon, and a B&O audio system with 8 or 18 speakers. The center console will be 1.4 inches lower, and all trucks will feature a new upper glove box.

Super Duty will feature front and rear automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, and active lane control.

Ford will equip the Super Duty with a full range of standard and optional features to assist fleet managers and field workers.

Several blind-spot monitors detect the presence of a vehicle next to the trailer, a trailer backup assist system that automatically backs up to the hitch, and trailering navigation that sets routes to avoid bridges that are set too low. Trailering options will be available. The Smart Hitch feature will help drivers optimize trailer weight distribution, and owners will be able to wire available cameras into the trailer and monitor them from the driver's seat. Ford also offers an app that alerts owners to potential trailer theft.

Other available features include Pro Power Onboard with two outlets and up to 2.0 kw output to power tools and electronics, and an onboard scale to measure load and hitch weight. The latter can be monitored via an app, a center screen, and even a bar on the taillight that indicates how much of the truck's tongue weight capacity is being used.

A 5G wi-fi hotspot will enable wireless updates and connectivity to fleet services via Ford Pro software. Ford Pro Data Services can analyze fleet vehicle data and integrate with third party providers. Vehicle security features allow fleets to set time frames for operations and send alerts when vehicles are not running, being towed, or in the event of an impact or accident. Fleet management software can digitize vehicle reports and track real-time cost of ownership. Ford partners with Salesforce for field service management tools and ADT for security services. Ford will also offer an up-fit integration system that will make it easier for aftermarket companies to access the truck's electrical system and integrate it with digital displays.

Ford Pro also assists with financing, title and registration services, and driver record checks.

The 2023 Ford F-Series Super Duty will be produced in Kentucky and Ohio and will go on sale early next year. More detailed specs and pricing will be revealed closer to launch.