Improved fuel economy for both engines
In addition to supplying more power, both new engines reward with increased fuel economy. The diesel powerplant achieves an 18% fuel economy boost over the current generation 6.4-litre Power Stroke while the new gas engine averages a 15% improvement over today’s 5.4-litre V8. And naturally, the new gas powerplant is E85 capable.
The new diesel powerplant is B20 capable, meaning that it will happily consume a mix of 20% bio-diesel to 80% diesel. Regardless of which fuel or mixture is feeding the mill, this is the cleanest Ford diesel ever produced thanks in part to a urea injection process referred to by Ford as DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid).
New 6-speed automatic transmission backs-up both engines
Both new engines are backed by a robust 6-speed automatic transmission specifically designed to tame the massive diesel-derived torque. The new transmission also contributes to an increase in fuel economy by using the “right gear at the right time.”
A unique feature of the transmission is the availability of a Power-Take-Off (PTO) setup available with the diesel engine. The PTO function allows those using the truck for industrial-like purposes to supply power to equipment such as a dump box, spreader etc.
The new transmission also allows complete electronic manual control via a rocker switch located on the shift lever. This feature performed flawlessly in providing extensive engine-braking when descending from our mountain excursion.
A Super wrap-up
Along with the new powertrains and improved tow capabilities, the new Super Dutys are stuffed with technology, such as Ford Work Solutions, which includes: an in-dash computer with a wireless external keyboard, Tool Link RFID tagging and logging, Crew Chief GPS data and an in-box Cable Locking system.
This collection of assets provides fleet users with greater control, security and accountability of their vehicles and tools, including location and usage data. It also enables true “office functionality” from the truck’s enormous cab.
After a day of putting the 2011 Super Dutys through their paces on the highway and off road, I’ve come away impressed with what Ford has achieved. They’ve combined segment-leading workhorse ingredients with ride and comfort dynamics that extend far beyond that which is typical of heavy-duty diesel units.
These trucks are tough but it’s a toughness refined beyond expectation. Also beyond expectation is Ford’s ability to maintain, or in some cases reduce, the price-range of its Super Duty line, and that definitely puts the “super” back into Super Duty.
In addition to supplying more power, both new engines reward with increased fuel economy. The diesel powerplant achieves an 18% fuel economy boost over the current generation 6.4-litre Power Stroke while the new gas engine averages a 15% improvement over today’s 5.4-litre V8. And naturally, the new gas powerplant is E85 capable.
The new diesel powerplant is B20 capable, meaning that it will happily consume a mix of 20% bio-diesel to 80% diesel. Regardless of which fuel or mixture is feeding the mill, this is the cleanest Ford diesel ever produced thanks in part to a urea injection process referred to by Ford as DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid).
New 6-speed automatic transmission backs-up both engines
Both new engines are backed by a robust 6-speed automatic transmission specifically designed to tame the massive diesel-derived torque. The new transmission also contributes to an increase in fuel economy by using the “right gear at the right time.”
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| The PTO function allows those using the truck for industrial-like purposes to supply power to equipment (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |
A unique feature of the transmission is the availability of a Power-Take-Off (PTO) setup available with the diesel engine. The PTO function allows those using the truck for industrial-like purposes to supply power to equipment such as a dump box, spreader etc.
The new transmission also allows complete electronic manual control via a rocker switch located on the shift lever. This feature performed flawlessly in providing extensive engine-braking when descending from our mountain excursion.
A Super wrap-up
Along with the new powertrains and improved tow capabilities, the new Super Dutys are stuffed with technology, such as Ford Work Solutions, which includes: an in-dash computer with a wireless external keyboard, Tool Link RFID tagging and logging, Crew Chief GPS data and an in-box Cable Locking system.
This collection of assets provides fleet users with greater control, security and accountability of their vehicles and tools, including location and usage data. It also enables true “office functionality” from the truck’s enormous cab.
After a day of putting the 2011 Super Dutys through their paces on the highway and off road, I’ve come away impressed with what Ford has achieved. They’ve combined segment-leading workhorse ingredients with ride and comfort dynamics that extend far beyond that which is typical of heavy-duty diesel units.
These trucks are tough but it’s a toughness refined beyond expectation. Also beyond expectation is Ford’s ability to maintain, or in some cases reduce, the price-range of its Super Duty line, and that definitely puts the “super” back into Super Duty.
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