Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/116487
Kelley's Kool Running Continued Apart from extensive use of brushed aluminum and stainless steel interior trim, the interior appears to be evolutionary from that of the existing F-150. JOBS for TEAMS Ford's iconic F-150. Introduced as the "Atlas Concept," with the questionable disclaimer stating that it was NOT intended to be an early look at the next F-150, the concept is nonetheless a good indication of what to expect in the next F-150. With the exception of a few surface trim pieces that wouldn't be practical in everyday use, and a few bits of eye-candy tech to raise the overall cool factor, most of what is featured on the Atlas Concept is just too realistic not to show up on the next F-150. Although the full effect was a bit diminished by the auto show's high-intensity stage-lighting, a key feature appearing from end to end on the Atlas was its LED lighting. From the headlights to the taillights, to the mirrors, to the cargo box, to the interior, virtually all lighting on the Atlas Concept is provided by LED lamps. Long-available and well-proven on heavy-duty trucks, LED lights are just beginning to gain serious momentum on the back of light-duty trucks and passenger vehicles. Given the benefits and practicality of LED lighting, it doesn't take a crystal ball to believe that the Atlas' lighting is a sneak peek of what will debut on the next F-150. Even less of a stretch to the imagination is a minor modification to the F-Series' already popular tailgate step that allows it to also serve as a "cargo cradle." In Ford's earlier efforts to increase ground clearance, they created a problem with gaining access to the cargo bed. The simple solution was to build a retractable step into the top edge of the tailgate that would, when the tailgate was open, hang down a few feet below the level of the cargo bed floor, effectively splitting the distance between the ground and the cargo floor. By simply allowing that tailgate step to be extended straight up and locked in place when the tailgate is closed, the step now serves a double purpose as | 24 JFT0413_Kool Runnings.indd 2 www.jobsforteams.com 3/5/13 1:41 PM