Yesterday we learned that the next-generation Ford F-150 will be launched about two months later than initially planned. The delay was reportedly caused by aluminum body panels that “did not meet internal forming requirements for the tooling tryout phase of pre-production”.
According to The Truth About Cars, said parts were supplied by Alcoa and other tier 2 suppliers, who will now “be under the gun to deliver proper materials on time and not drag the delays out any further”. Replying to TTAC’s story, Alcoa said they do not have any issues with their automotive production line, which makes us wonder whether or not the 2015 F-150 was delayed for different reasons.
“While details of future programs and timelines should come from automotive OEMs themselves – regardless of the platform — we can say that Alcoa does not have any issues with its automotive production lines. It is important to note that aluminum is the second most used material to build cars today. Automakers have successfully used Alcoa materials to produce aluminum-intensive vehicles since the mid 1990s,” Alcoa said in an e-mail sent to TTAC.
Whatever the case, make sure you stick around for updates on the story and new details about Ford upcoming pickup truck.
“While details of future programs and timelines should come from automotive OEMs themselves – regardless of the platform — we can say that Alcoa does not have any issues with its automotive production lines. It is important to note that aluminum is the second most used material to build cars today. Automakers have successfully used Alcoa materials to produce aluminum-intensive vehicles since the mid 1990s,” Alcoa said in an e-mail sent to TTAC.
Whatever the case, make sure you stick around for updates on the story and new details about Ford upcoming pickup truck.