With the introduction of the mostly-aluminum 2015 Ford F-150, the Dearborn-based automaker also announced an all-new EcoBoost engine, a 2.7 liter V6 with high output and better fuel economy. Ford anticipates a lot of sales for this new engine, as the F-150 leads the competition in V6 truck sales.
In order to support the new 2015 F-150 and this new EcoBoost engine, Ford has announced a $500 million investment in its Lima, Ohio engine factory. This investment will add 300 jobs to help build this cutting-edge, small-displacement engine.
At just 2.7 liters, the new “Nano” V6 engine displaces less than some four-bangers. With an advanced turbocharging system and lightweight design, Ford is talking big one this little motor, though final horsepower and torque specs remain unspoken. The new Nano V6 has to slot between the base 3.5 liter V6 good for 305 horsepower, and the 3.5 liter EcoBoost making 365 horsepower.
We’ll reserve judgement until we see some power and MPG numbers. Ford has announced it will include a Stop-Start system standard on the Nano V6, which shuts down the engine at idle to conserve fuel, without any noticeable difference in performance. Combined with weight-saving aluminum construction, this could be the MPG Trump Card Ford needs to keep the F-150 as America’s favorite pickup for another forty-something years.
So how about that Nano V6 for the new Mustang? Not that we aren’t excited for the 2.3 liter EcoBoost, but you can never have too many turbo engine options.