NOTABLE
When the 2015 Ford F-150 pickup debuted, it was revolu-
tionary inasmuch as it was arguably the frst volume-pro-
duced vehicle with an aluminum body—and when we say
"volume-produced," we mean volume: the F-Series is the
biggest-selling nameplate in the U.S. auto market.
When the 2017 Ford F-150 is introduced this fall it will
be revolutionary inasmuch as it will ofer the "frst vol-
ume-production 10-speed automatic."
Just as they changed up the game with the use of alumi-
num for the body of the 2015, this transmission, accord-
ing to Ford, will be the frst that doesn't have cast-iron
components.
According to a Ford spokesperson, "the 10R80 utilizes
high-strength steel and aluminum alloys. It also leverages
advanced metal forming processes to maximize strength
and minimize weight, as well as incorporating composite
materials where it makes sense, such as the oil pan."
The transmission is being produced at the Livonia
Transmission Plant in Michigan. Ford spent $1.4-billion to
provide the capacity at the facility for the 10-speed.
Ford 10-Speed: No Cast Iron
The Ford 10R80 10-speed automatic is the frst from the
company that doesn't use cast iron components. Instead, it
is primarily high-strength steel and aluminum alloys.
Look carefully: You've not seen that countdown sequence
of numbers on a light-duty pickup truck before: the 2017
Ford F-150 is being offered with a 10-speed automatic, the
frst in a volume production vehicle application.
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