(autoinsidernews) - Ford's next-generation F-150 pickup will lauch with a diesel powerplant when it goes on sale in 2008 or 2009, according to a former executive. If it arrives on time, the F-150 is expected to be the first diesel-powered light-duty pickup in North America, reports Trend.
Dave Szczupak, Ford's former vice president of manufacturing for the America, who retired from Ford last week, said the engine will be derived from the 3.6L V8 diesel used in the European market Range Rover. The Range Rover V8 develops 267-hp and a healthy 472 lb.-ft. of torque, all while delivering 25 mpg. The version for the U.S. would need to be reworked to conform to U.S. federal emissions standards.
Toyota and Nissan are searching for diesels for their Tundra and Titan pickups. Toyota has not yet sourced a diesel for the Toyota Tundra and is considering buying one from a supplier. Nissan is negotiating with International Truck & Engine Corp. for a V8 diesel for the Nissan Titan, but neither company has announced any deals. General Motors has announced plans for a small V8 diesel engine for use in light-duty trucks after 2010. Dodge is expecting new V6 and V8 diesels from longtime supplier Cummins in 2010.
Last month, as part of the Ford's Accelerated Way Forward plans, the automaker confirmed plans to launch a new F-150 in 2008 with powertrain, design and feature upgrades.