Ford is retooling its Louisville, Kentucky truck plant for the production of the new aluminum 2017 Ford Super Duty. However, it is the same plant that builds the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator. What is the company to do if it wants to continue the production of its large SUVs? How about doing a complete redesign, and employing aluminum body construction for the next Expedition and Navigator?
It appears that Ford is doing just that. Last month, the Lincoln Navigator concept made its debut at the 2016 New York Auto Show. It makes logical sense that the next generation of the Expedition is not far behind.
This prototype appears to borrow most from the current aluminum F-150. All of the body panels and components forward of the c-pillar are F-150. The rear section is new with tinted glass and tail-lights from the current Expedition.
If this is the case, then the next Expedition will be a lighter vehicle with a selection of EcoBoost powertrains. The 10-speed automatic transmission may also appears in this large family hauler.
Lincoln said that the next Navigator will have an EcoBoost engine with an output of over 400 horsepower. The Expedition will not be far behind.
What do you think? Should Ford continue the investment and producer aluminum-bodied 2018 Expedition and Navigator?
Here is a quick prototype hunting video where Nathan and Andre catch a glimpse of the 2018 Ford Expedition prototype.
And here is the introduction of the Lincoln Navigator concept from New York.
