• The Dearborn Truck Plant will begin production of the new Ford F-150 in 2004.
• Dearborn Truck will showcase Ford's new, next-generation, flexible manufacturing system and be Ford's most flexible globally - able to produce up to nine different models off three vehicle platforms.
• The F-Series has been the best-selling full-size pickup in the United States for 26 years and the nation's best-selling vehicle for 21 years running.

DEARBORN, Mich., June 12, 2003 - The star of America's best-selling Ford F-Series truck lineup, the new Ford F-150, soon will have a new home at one of Ford's most historic locations, when production of the truck begins at the Ford Rouge Center's new Dearborn Truck Plant in 2004.

Ford also is showcasing its new flexible production system. "Just as the F-Series has defined the truck market for more than 26 years, our all-new flexible manufacturing system introduces a new era of flexible manufacturing at Ford," said Roman Krygier, group vice president, Global Manufacturing and Quality.

The Dearborn Truck Plant is among the first of several Ford plants to install a next-generation flexible assembly system, allowing it to build up to nine different models off three platforms. It will be Ford's most flexible plant globally.

"Dearborn Truck will have the ability to change the mix, volume and options of products in response to consumer demand and market segmentation - all with minimal investment and changeover loss," Krygier said.

During the next decade, Ford expects to save $1.5 to 2 billion because its flexible system will cost 10 percent to 15 percent less than traditional systems, with an added 50 percent savings in changeover costs.

2004 Ford F-150
Tough, capable and powerful, the F-Series has been the best-selling full-size pickup in the United States for 26 years and the nation's best-selling vehicle for 21 years running.

When the new 2004 F-150 hits showrooms this fall, customers will discover a broad range of overarching product enhancements. The truck's strong backbone - the industry's stiffest, fully boxed frame -- gives it great handling precision. Its wider track provides great stability, and the all-new coil-over-shock front suspension system provides a greater sense of control. Other enhancements include:

• Stronger stance and style - The new F-150 features an all-new design, with a bold exterior shape that exemplifies Ford truck toughness and capability. The interiors boldly take the full-size pickup into a new dimension of comfort and refinement.
• Power - Ford's new 5.4-liter, 3-valve TritonT V-8 engine produces 300 peak horsepower - a 15-percent improvement over the previous award-winning 5.4-liter engine, and 365 foot-pounds of torque for improved low-speed and peak pulling power. Mated with the new 4R75E transmission for smoother shifts and improved fuel efficiency, the 5.4L 3V also contributes to a quieter cab environment for F-150 customers.
• Even tougher - The fully boxed frame is approximately nine times stiffer torsionally than its tough predecessor, providing the foundation for enhancements in durability, safety, driving dynamics and refined, quiet ride.