The next generation of Ford’s popular F-Series pickup truck is still a few years away, but the signs suggest a huge technological leap for the best-selling model line in the United States. Specifically, the 2028 F-Series could adopt by-wire technology for steering and braking, which eliminates a mechanical connection between the steering wheel/wheels and brake pedal/brake pads. Instead, a series of sensors, motors, and electronics will replace these conventional components. But why does Ford look like the likeliest brand to take the rugged pickup in this direction? Here’s a deeper look.
The Software-Defined Pickup Truck
Ford
We’ve steadily seen the rise of software-defined vehicles, whereby multiple core features and functions are manipulated by and upgraded through software rather than hardware. Gas-powered trucks are not exactly at the forefront of this change, given their role as work vehicles, towing machines, and off-road toys. But that’s changing, and by-wire technology will form part of this change.
According to Richard Truett from Automotive News, planned supercapacitor production from major suppliers and Ford CEO Jim Farley’s own comments on the next-gen F-150 suggest the pickup will be the first of America’s major truck manufacturers to implement by-wire tech.
Supercapacitors are small energy devices that deliver high-voltage electricity in short bursts. They can also discharge and recharge quickly, making them suitable for by-wire steering and braking tech. The production timelines from major supercapacitor manufacturers like Clarios, together with Ford pickup production timelines, leads Truett to believe the next F-Series will adopt by-wire steering and braking. ZF, meanwhile, is planning to equip around 700,000 heavy-duty pickups with electric brake calipers over the next few years; Ford is one of the only companies with the truck volumes to justify a rollout of that magnitude.
Ford
The Tesla Cybertruck already has steer-by-wire technology, and it goes a long way to making the large, heavy EV feel more maneuverable. This same benefit could be seen in the next generation of gas-powered pickups, which still feel quite cumbersome alongside many SUVs.
Related: Rivian Taking On Tesla and Lexus With Steer-By-Wire System
Ford Is Open To Breakthrough Tech
Truett also mentioned the possibility of GM pickups adopting by-wire steering and braking, but believes Ford is a more tech-forward company that doesn’t shy away from advances in the industry.
“We’re doubling down on our icons, making the next-generation F-150 and Super Duty absolute breakthroughs in terms of cost, technology, powertrain choice and functional features,” said Ford CEO Jim Farley on February 10 on a sales call with media and analysts.
When Ford spokesman Mike Levine was asked about by-wire tech, he said the Blue Oval would not comment on future products—but there was no outright denial, either.
Final Thoughts
Although unconfirmed by Ford at this stage, the evidence suggests by-wire technology could very well make its way into the next-generation F-Series. Not only will this result in a pickup with fewer parts, but the tech promises shorter stopping distances and more responsive steering, which are traditional pickup weaknesses.
The challenge for Ford may be convincing truck loyalists that the tech is as dependable as traditional, mechanical steering and braking systems. We’ve also seen automakers like Lexus tease a steer-by-wire system for the RZ crossover, but it’s still not available in the U.S. Having experienced this steering system myself in an RZ back in 2023, I can confirm its responsiveness could prove game-changing in a heavy pickup, although it does require an adjustment to one’s driving style.
We expect more information to come to light over the next year or so, but it all points to a technological revolution for the 15th generation of the legendary F-Series.
