Ford Refreshes 2018 F-150 and Expedition Special Service Vehicles
Both trucks will use an aluminum-alloy body, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a 3.5-liter Ecoboost V6.
Ford and other manufacturers work hard to specialize their cars for the grueling duties of an emergency service vehicle. Rather than having to retrofit a civilian model for police work, departments can buy a vehicle truly tailored to the harsh conditions law enforcement and other members of the emergency services put their vehicles through every day.
The 2018 Ford F-150 SSV and Expedition SSV are perfect examples of two heavy-duty vehicles waiting to live a life on the beat. With a refresh from Ford, both vehicles are now made with “high strength aluminum-alloy bodies,” for improved fuel economy and longevity. Both vehicles will also utilize an impressive 10-speed automatic transmission for improved acceleration under stress. The standard engine for both the F-150 and Expedition will be the powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 making 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. This is plenty of power to catch a fleeing vehicle or get to that high-priority call in a timely manner. Still, if departments want to opt for the 5.0-liter V8, they can do so with the F-150.
In order to keep up with the demands of additional power draws like lights, sirens, K-9 fans, flood lights, and winches, Ford has installed a high output 240-amp alternator. In attempts to keep modification costs down, Ford offers pre-wiring for emergency lights and other necessary electronics for a life in the emergency services.
Rather than equipping each vehicle with hand stitched leather and other luxuries you may find in the Platinum edition of each vehicle, Ford will 40/blank/40 front seating, vinyl rear bench seats and vinyl flooring to ensure easy cleanup and plenty of room for storage.