A new graphic illustrates the evolution of the Ford F-150 grille since the truck model was introduced in 1975. With the latest F-150 grilles spanning up to 54 inches, Ford Parts On Sale created the graphic to chart the significant design and size changes over time.
The first F-150 trucks had a hood that came down to meet the grille. The Ford name was on that hood overhang, and the grille was small. These days, the grille takes up most of the F-150’s front end, with just enough space reserved for the headlights.
“Look at the late 1990s to early 2000s truck, and it’s clear that Ford took some style risks in an effort to improve aerodynamics,” says Don Heelon, parts manager at FordPartsOnSale.com. “Now, Ford trucks have the Active Grille Shutters for aerodynamics and a much tougher profile. The actual size of today’s F-150 and its aggressive grille make it a standout on the road.”
Here are some highlights from the F-150 grille infographic:
- The front end received its first slight rounding during 1987’s redesign. The headlights blended into the fenders, the grille size was reduced, and the egg crate style was eliminated.
- During the truck’s 10th generation, Andrew K. Jacobson and his team did a major update to the front end in 1997. The rounded design became known as the “jellybean.”
- The 2015 redesign harkens back to the 1987 overhaul. The front end was squared a bit more, the headlights blended even more into the fenders, and, instead of reducing the grille size, Ford increased it.
“Ford is offering more grille options these days,” says Heelon. “Some look beefy and attractive, but there’s still a lot of plastic and chrome coating on OEM grilles. I’ll be eager to see if more stainless steel appears on future designs.”
Members of the media are invited to share or publish the graphic with a link back to the original image found here: https://www.fordpartsonsale.com/blog/f150-grille-evolution
About FordPartsOnSale.com
For over 30 years, FordPartsOnSale.com has been a leading retailer of Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury auto parts and accessories. To learn more, visit https://www.fordpartsonsale.com/