cars news 10: Spied: Ford F-150 Hybrid Prototype Tests on Public Roads (W/Video)

This Ford F-150 prototype with a camouflaged front clip suggests the automaker is testing a new variant of its best-selling pickup. The vehicle is likely a mule for an upcoming hybrid F-150.

Spotted in Dearborn, Mich., the F-150 was traveling at around 35 mph on public roads. At times, its engine noises would momentarily cease, according to our spy photographer. The engine sound was replaced by an electrical humming noise while the pickup was stopped at a traffic light. Could a hybridized F-150 be just around the corner?

Ford has already said it is “working very hard” on a hybrid version of the F-150 pickup in order to make it the most fuel-efficient model in its segment. For 2017, the automaker is adding a standard stop/start feature to all Ford F-150 pickups with EcoBoost engines. There also appears to be a charge port hidden by the camouflage, which indicates a plug-in hybrid. If so, the model could get an Energi badge, similar to the Fusion Energi.

A PHEV would likely use an electric motor mated to an EcoBoost V-6 engine. The new 10-speed automatic jointly developed by Ford and GM, first seen in the 2017 F-150 Raptor Crew Cab and Extra Cab concepts as well as the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, could also be added to the mix. Four-wheel-drive could also be standard on the F-150 PHEV.

A few years ago, Ford and Toyota were collaborating on hybrid tech for full-size pickups, but have since dissolved the partnership. The new hybridized Ford F-150 could debut in 2020, and a concept could be shown as early as next year.

Photo Source: Brian Williams