The Ford F-650 has been around for quite some time and has gone through several changes. What has remained constant is the F-650s outstanding quality and dependability that everyone expects from a Ford truck.
The original purpose of the F-650 was to satisfy the needs of companies that desired to move objects from one location to another. Sounds straightforward right? Well, it was back in 2000 when Ford first started production of the F-650. Originally, the F-650 was manufactured in Escobedo Mexico. What is interesting is that Ford partnered with Cummins and Navistar and produced the F-650 with a Cummins diesel engine. Back in 1990 Ford actually owned around 10% of Cummins stock! This relationship did not last forever and eventually Cummins bought the stock back. Regardless, still an interesting pairing of two related organizations. The production of the F-650 remained in Mexico for around 15 years.
Eventually the production of the F-650 was moved back to the United States, specifically in to the State of Ohio in the town of Avon Lake. As the trucking needs altered, Ford responded appropriately by increasing the available options for the F-650. Starting with 2016 model Ford dropped the Cummins diesel and plopped in a 6.7-liter Powerstroke V8-engine. Ford also expanded the offerings by providing three different cab styles. Again, Ford was showing the world that they were serious about entering several segments within the commercial space and were willing to spend the research dollars to put them in their targeted areas.
Read on to find out more about the Ford F-650...
Humble Beginnings To Increased Sales
Ford keeps on adding features to its F-650 and F750 models that companies just cannot refuse. To put this into perspective, in August of 2016, Ford had already sold more F-650s than it had in the entire year of 2015. This was not just a blip on the radar screen but an actual trend that has continued through 2019. As a matter of fact, the sales for both the F-650 and F-750 are up 37% year-over-year. How many companies that manufacture trucks the class 6 range can boast sale increases of this magnitude?
The durability of the F-650 is evident in the fact that many of those that were manufactured in 2000 are still on the road. It is not difficult to find a 2000 model for sale, and what is amazing is how well they hold their value. Should you find one available with under 100 thousand miles on the odometer expect to pay between 15k to 20k. Of course, these prices can fluctuate quite a bit, depending upon whether it is a dump truck, a box truck, and so on. If you happen to come across one with close to 200k, it might be possible to snag it for under 10k.
Can Be Customized For Private Use
As movie stars and athletes have become more well-known and larger than life, so too has their need for bigger and better vehicles. This is where the F-650 fits in quite nicely. Because the vehicle does not require any special kind of license besides the standard driver's license, anyone with the appropriate funds can buy one. When it comes to Shaquille O'Neil, he actually needs a large vehicle that can support his massive 7 foot 1 inch frame. Back in 2017 Shaq bought a customized F-650. As huge as this truck is, it's still less than a foot higher than Shaq's head! Seems like a perfect match.
It is possible to purchase a new entry level F-650 for around $55,000, but once it is customized that cost can easily exceed the 100k mark. Apparently, there is a substantial market for customized F650s, as there are companies that specialize in providing custom-made trucks for those that require a vehicle of this magnitude. For these customers, obviously gas mileage is not a concern.
Where The F-650 Stands In 2022
Ford is breaking all kinds of barriers in 2022 by providing a key feature for the F-650s. An integrated air compressor will be available with the 7.3 liter gas engine. This will help Ford in its effort to get the gas engine module up to the same standards as the diesel-powered engine. Currently, just the diesel engine version of the F-650 provides an integrated air compressor. To a certain extent, companies had limited options and were left without a viable choice besides the diesel engine. Now the benefits of using cheaper gas can be had without sacrificing the safety that comes with air brakes. The gas-powered version of the F-650 costs over $9,000 less than the diesel option.
The future looks bright for Ford and their pickup truck endeavors. Like other truck companies, Ford wants to continue to grow its share in the trucking market space. By continuously investing in improvements and listening to the needs of their customers, the path seems straight forward.