Ford has just announced its newest addition to the Super Duty lineup – factory-installed LED warning lights – and in doing so, has confirmed it will be another year before the next-generation Super Duty makes production.
Though the lights are the main story here, the fact Ford->ke31 has announced them for the 2016 model year nearly confirms 2017 will likely be the year the automaker rolls out the updated heavy duty truck. Rumored to have an all-aluminum body like the 2015 F-150, the new Super Duty should be lighter yet stronger. It’s interior is also rumored to take heavy influences from the F-150, ending the reign of separately styled dashboards.
But back to the lights. Ford says the factory option is designed for folks like contractors or road construction crews that need added visibility. A total of four LED light pods are mounted to the truck and professionally wired to the interior. Trucks equipped with the optional Upfitter Switch kit will utilize the number three switch for the strobe lights. Those without the Upfitter Switch will have a stand-alone switch installed.
The lights are all mounted without adhesives, and more importantly, without drilling – helping prevent corrosion. The hood-mounted lights utilize a bracket system that clips onto the trailing edge of the hood. The rear lights are mounted with the same fasteners that hold the high-mount third brake light on, but with longer screws that accommodate for the added thickness of the bracketry.
Ford says the lights can be seen from 1,000 feet during the day and up to a mile away at night. Unfortunately for police and fire departments, Ford is only offering the lights in amber, with no other color options at this time.