Fifty Years of the F-150 and Still Going Strong

The year 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the Ford F-150. While it may seem like the F-150 has been around forever, the badge was first placed on a 1975 model-year Ford truck. Dick Smith Ford of Columbia pauses for a moment to celebrate that milestone and all that it means.  

Of course, there were Ford pickup trucks before the F-150. It dates back over 100 years ago to when Ford introduced its first truck in 1917, just in time for World War II. Dubbed the Model TT, the vehicle used the Model T’s engine and cab but had a sturdier frame that could handle a one-ton payload. Ford has used other names throughout the years, including the popular F-100, which began in 1953. The 1975 F-150 was sold alongside the F-100 for eight years, quickly surpassing the F-100 in popularity. By 1977, it became the best-selling pickup truck in the U.S., an achievement it has not relinquished since with over 33 million vehicles sold. The 2024 calendar year also marked the F-150’s 43rd year as the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. of any kind.  

“The enduring legacy of the F-Series is not just a result of our relentless pursuit of improvement but also a reflection of the trust between Ford, our dealers and customers,” said Andrew Frick, President of Ford Blue. “We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve our customers and are committed to continuing to earn their business every single day.” 

The F-150 enters its 50th year with a greater range of choices than ever before, including gas and diesel powertrains, and the all-electric F-150 Lightning. Innovations and achievements for the 2025 model year include: 

• BlueCruise – Ford has mapped over 130,000 miles of “Hands-Free Blue Zones” that enable you to drive hands- and feet-free down the highway. 

• Pro Power Onboard – This system transforms your truck into a mobile power source with the most exportable power of any gas-powered pickup in its class. A version of this system is also included in the F-150 Lightning. 

• Pro Access Tailgate – Provides improved access and use of the bed, even when towing. 

• Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, Smart Hitch and Pro Trailer Backup Assist – All of these systems make it easier to connect a trailer and back up a trailer. 

• Ford Pro™ Vehicle Integration System 2.0 – This system on the Super Duty makes it easier to install upfit instrumentation into the truck’s digital systems, helping simplify industry-specific vehicle conversions. 

• Best-in-class maximum available payload – The Super Duty F-350 can carry up to 8,000 pounds. 

• Best-in-class maximum available towing – The Super Duty F-450 can tow up to 40,000 pounds with a gooseneck hitch. 

Learn more about what Ford has achieved after 100 years of truck building and 50 years of the F-150 at Dick Smith Ford of Columbia.