Converting pickups into three-axle, six-wheel monsters isn’t entirely new. Typically, however, they are manufactured in the aftermarket, with companies like Hennessey and Rezvani adding third axles to existing pickups for additional performance. However, according to a new patent obtained by CarBuzz, Ford appears to want to give customers the option to add another axle to their F-150 pickups directly at the dealer.
Ford’s new patent, filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), shows a bolt-on third axle that can be added at any time. However, it’s not intended for off-road performance or pure badassery (although that’s certainly a side effect). Instead, this additional axle is intended to increase the F-150’s payload capacity. Ford previously offered a heavy-duty package for the F-150, but dropped it for the 2024 model year because it was too expensive to manufacture and not a popular option. According to Ford’s patent application, this bolt-on third axle would be less expensive to produce and would allow customers to install it even after their truck is delivered.
Even more interesting is the potential for electrification of the third axis. While the additional axle would be an inert axle not powered by the engine, Ford recognizes that customers may need additional power when hauling additional weight. An electric motor on the third axle powered by a small battery would transform the F-150 into a plug-in hybrid and give the engine a little more torque.
However, there is still a question of bodywork. Ford would have to pack some sort of modified wheel arch kit for the bed to accommodate the third axle and two additional wheels. However, if body modifications are made to the bed, the third axle could become a permanent addition to the truck.
Depending on the cost, this could be a very interesting option for F-150 owners. If it’s affordable enough, I can imagine F-150 owners putting this third axle in their trucks just to get the look of a 6×6 pickup, even if the third axle is lazy. But for owners who might actually need the extra payload capacity, this could both look cool and be helpful.
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