The story of Ford tailgates kicked off in 1925 with the debut of their very first pickup truck, marking the start of a century-long journey of innovative features that would set industry benchmarks for usability and design.
By 1929, the Ford Model A station wagon presented a tailgate remarkably similar to those on trucks today, establishing a foundational design that prioritized accessibility and utility in a neat package.
A significant leap occurred in 1964 when Ford introduced steel tailgate support straps that cleverly folded into the tailgate itself, not only creating a cleaner appearance by hiding hardware but also boosting the tailgate’s overall functionality and toughness.
The 1980s brought even more versatility with the F-Series offering a removable tailgate option, a move that provided truck owners with much greater ease when loading and unloading the cargo bed, especially for bulkier items.
By 2006, Ford enhanced the F-150 King Ranch model with an integrated extendable step right on the tailgate, a simple yet brilliant addition that made climbing into the truck bed safer and more convenient for everyone.
Just a year later, in 2007, Ford showcased a bold concept truck featuring a tailgate designed to fold down and serve as a step, signaling their innovative spirit and commitment to exploring new possibilities for tailgate design, even if it didn’t reach mass production.
The 2008 F-Series Super Duty then arrived with a revolutionary bed extender, fundamentally changing how drivers could manage and secure their cargo, proving Ford’s dedication to enhancing practical use through clever engineering.
Ford continued its innovative streak in 2021 by incorporating a versatile work surface into the tailgate, complete with handy features like a built-in measuring stick and bottle openers, reflecting a growing trend towards multifunctional truck components.
9. **Introduction of the Pro Access Tailgate (2024)**: The latest innovation, the Pro Access Tailgate, is set to debut in 2024 with the refreshed F-150. This new tailgate can swing open like a door, offering unprecedented access to the bed while aiming to outdo competitors like GM and Ram.
10. **The Competitive Landscape**: Ford’s commitment to tailgate innovation is a direct response to fierce competition in the pickup truck market, particularly from Chevrolet and Ram. This rivalry has fueled a continuous cycle of improvement and ingenuity, ensuring that customers receive the best possible features.
Each of these groundbreaking innovations has not only shaped the Ford tailgate experience but has also become an integral part of Ford’s rich truck heritage, underscoring a century of continuous progress and adaptation that keeps them at the forefront of the pickup truck market.
The remarkable evolution of Ford tailgates truly highlights the brand’s unwavering commitment to innovation, practicality, and ensuring customer satisfaction, consistently raising the bar for what truck owners can expect and eagerly anticipating what future advancements will bring.
