XL Hybrids, an aftermarket hybrid systems maker, has announced a Ford F-250-based hybrid pickup truck which will enter production this month. The truck was unveiled at the NTEA Work Truck Show in Indianapolis.
The hardware for the XLH system is added to the truck in a “ship-through upfit” where the truck is purchased from Ford and delivered to XLH for upgrade. The F-250 upfit comes on the heels of the company’s successful General Motors branded upfits.
The plug-in hybrid system adds a 15 kWh battery pack under the bed and an electric motor behind the transmission on the driveline. The system can be fitted to any cab (or body) configuration and will result in a 25 percent fuel efficiency improvement for the F-250 platform and a 50 percent boost to the F-150 with a 2.7-liter V6.
Fleets adding the XL Hybrids powertrain components retain the original warranty coverage from Ford with an additional warranty from XLH.
Aaron is an automotive journalist living in Wyoming, USA. His background includes technology, mechanics, commercial vehicles, and new vehicle evaluations. Aaron is a member of several automotive media groups and writes for many well-known publications.