Lucas Bell 
With their debut of the 14th-generation Ford F-150, the Blue Oval has become the first automaker to offer a light-duty pickup with a full-hybrid system. While initial reports hinted at the battery assisted model coming later in the run, the 2021 Ford F-150 hybrid will be available with the all-new PowerBoost V6 engine from launch. Ford also promises that it will be the most capable engine in its class.
The PowerBoost V6 hybrid powertrain is a mashup of the well-vetted 3.5L EcoBoost V6 we’re all accustomed to, working in tandem with a new 35 kilowatt electric motor that produces 47 horsepower. The liquid-cooled 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery that feeds the motor has been mounted between the frame rails, and features an exclusive vibration isolation system. The engine is mated to a 10-speed modular hybrid transmission, which is produced entirely in house. The 2021 Ford F-150 hybrid will even feature a regenerative braking system, which will help to ensure that the 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery stays topped up.
Ford has been clear that this powertrain isn’t just for eco-minded buyers, as the new 2021 F-150 hybrid promises to be the most powerful light duty pickup on the market. We don’t have the output figures quite yet, but the Blue Oval states that they are targeting best-in-class ratings for both torque and horsepower figures. Not only that, but Ford ensures that this new system is capable of sustained battery usage at extreme outside temperatures or under heavy loads, so you’ll never be down on power. The 2021 F-150 Hybrid will also feature a maximum available towing capacity of at least 12,000 pounds, all while offering a targeted EPA-estimated range of approximately 700 mile per tank. Not bad for a large truck. Incredible, actually.
The PowerBoost V6 engine will also offer up some additional capability for the Pro Power Onboard generator system, which we here at MC&T were the first to report on. With hybrid powertrain, the truck will be able to run either 2.4kW or 7.2kW of power through the truck’s 120V/ 240V outlets when in generator mode. That’s enough juice to power 28 average refrigerators, at once. The system will work whether you’re in park or driving down the street, making it ideal for charging up tools or equipment on the move.
The PowerBoost V6 engine will be available on every 2021 Ford F-150 trim level from XL to Limited, and very well may turn out to be the engine to get. All eyes now look towards 2022 and the introduction of the fully electric F-150.
