Ford Unveils E-550 Cutaway

Sept. 7, 2001
DALLAS – Ford Motor Co. believes a groundswell of demand is building for medium-duty “cutaway” truck chassis – so much so that the company has reserved an entire factory production line for its new E-550, set to roll out in January next year. At the Great American Truck Show yesterday, Ford explained that its research indicates some 42% of market demand for its E-550 cutaway will come from package
DALLAS – Ford Motor Co. believes a groundswell of demand is building for medium-duty “cutaway” truck chassis – so much so that the company has reserved an entire factory production line for its new E-550, set to roll out in January next year. At the Great American Truck Show yesterday, Ford explained that its research indicates some 42% of market demand for its E-550 cutaway will come from package delivery companies.

John Fink, director of Ford’s commercial truck sales and marketing division, went even further, saying that package delivery demand – and, consequently, demand for package delivery trucks – will grow enormously over the next three years because of e-commerce activity.

“We think the prospective package delivery truck market will grow four to five times faster because of e-commerce,” he said. “Right now, e-commerce activity is predicted to reach $3-trillion by 2004, so we want to position ourselves to be the dominant player in package delivery trucks when that demand starts to rise.”

Fink added that Ford began developing the E-550 2-1/2 years ago based on feedback from truck body makers. Those manufacturers said that there was growing demand for a higher gross vehicle weight rated (GVWR) cutaway, along with demand for more wheelbase options, better maneuverability, and both gasoline and diesel engine options.

Fink said the E-550 was developed to meet those demands. The truck comes with 17,500 and 19,000 pound GVWR options, powered by a 6.8 liter V10 gasoline or 7.3 liter Powerstroke diesel engine. The truck has 5 wheelbase options, ranging from 159.5 inches and a 49.8-foot turning radius up to a 233.5-inch and 70.5-foot turning radius. Fink said Ford also beefed up the vehicle’s front axle, giving it a gross axle weight rating (GAWR) of 6,000 pounds.

Larry Cooper, Ford’s chief engineer for the E-series line, added that the E-550 increases the cutaway options already offered by the E-450 line. He also said the current production run of the E-450 line has been sold out for 2001 and he expects similar performance from the E-550 next year.

“Cutaways are a growth market for us,” Cooper said. “I’m sold out of all the ones I have now.”

About the Author

Sean Kilcarr | Editor in Chief

Sean reports and comments on trends affecting the many different strata of the trucking industry -- light and medium duty fleets up through over-the-road truckload, less-than-truckload, and private fleet operations Also be sure to visit Sean's blog Trucks at Work where he offers analysis on a variety of different topics inside the trucking industry.

Sponsored Recommendations

Tackling the Tech Shortage: Lessons in Recruiting Talent and Reducing Turnover

Discover innovative strategies for recruiting and retaining tech talent in the trucking industry at our April 16th webinar, where experts will share insights on competitive pay...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!