We would never insert ourselves into the ongoing debate about which brand of pickup truck reigns supreme, but if an onboard generator option is a must-have, the new Ford F-150 has got you covered. The feature got rave reviews from midwesterners impacted by February’s freak winter storm that left millions without power.
During the storm, Ford even authorized its dealers in Texas to ink loaner agreements for unsold models so they could be used for emergency power.
There are three different levels of “Pro Power Onboard,” as it has been dubbed by Ford, and the charts below serve as a good reference to understand what each level is capable of handling.
Car and Driver reviewer Ezra Dyer noted in January that the 7.2-kW version is the quietest generator you’ll ever hear. Just a “muted whirr from beneath the truck.” Upsizing to the 7.2-kW version costs less than $1,000 when buying an F-150 Hybrd and to quote Dyer, “A 7,000-watt Honda—the aspirational luxury brand of generator—goes for about $4,500. The F-150 generator is a deal, and you don’t have to lug it around, find a place for it in your garage, or worry about the fuel going stale.” While Dyer and other reviewers utilized the onboard power via heavy guage extension cords, a 30-amp transfer switch could deliver meter base power to dedicated household circuits.
The onboard generator can also be monitored and controled via the Ford Pass mobile app. You can see what the load is on each circuit and more. If the system detects a ground fault, it immediately shuts off.
As always, we remind you that a carbon monoxide detector remains essential in your home or business when operating any generator. That’s even more important with an idling vehicle.
The Importance of Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Because carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, it is hard to detect exposure. And too much exposure can lead to death. Find out more about how to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning with a detector.
What can PRO POWER ONBOARD do for you?
Check out the many ways you can use the power created by using your Ford F-150 as a mobile generator. There are three levels of electrical output depending upon engine choice.