Ford Australia published footage from the comprehensive durability testing program of the right-hand-drive F-150 that will become available Down Under starting in 2023.
The full-size pickup which has been converted to right-hand-drive by Melbourne-based RMA, went through the same tests as the locally-developed Ranger and Everest, making sure it can withstand the harshest conditions. The truck was exposed to extreme temperatures ranging between -40° and +50° Celsius (-40° and 105° Fahrenheit), going through several water crossing, mud, sand, and corrosion tests. It also towed a 4.5-tonne (9,921 pounds) trailer with a boat on a high-speed oval track which is the limit of its towing capabilities.
Read: The RHD Ford F-150 Will Be Available In Australia In Mid-2023
The driveline, steering, wheels, and suspension components of the RHD F-150 were tested in Ford’s Silver Creek Road durability track, and in lab conditions. The latter was made possible thanks to a special Kinematic and Compliance rig at Ford Australia’s You Yangs Proving Ground. In total, the truck has traveled more than 135,000 km (83,835 miles) on Australian soil.
Local buyers will have a choice between the XLT and the Lariat trims in 4×4 Crew Cab configuration. There is also the option between the SWB bodystyle with a 145-inch wheelbase and a 5.5-foot bed, or the LWB bodystyle with a 157-inch wheelbase and a larger 6.5-foot bed. All Australian F-150s come fitted with the turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 producing 400 hp (298 kW / 405 PS) and 678 Nm (500 lb-ft) of torque since the V8 won’t be available Down Under. Power is transmitted to all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic gearbox.
Ford Australia says that more than 8,000 buyers have already registered their interest for the F-150. Local pricing and detailed technical specifications will be announced closer to the market launch which is expected in mid-2023.
