The Ford Atlas Concept, quite literally, dropped into the Detroit Auto Show. The oversized Tonka Truck was lowered onto stage to rapturous applause as, far from being a benign concept, the Atlas previews the forthcoming F-Series pick-up truck - the best-selling model in Ford's line-up.
Exterior
While the Atlas may not make production as is, the rectangular headlights, prominent wheel arches, wide stance and chiselled grille point towards the styling of the next Ford F-150 pick-up. The new F-Series will arrive at a time when stricter emission controls come into force so the concept features energy efficient touches such as LED lights front and rear and an aluminium frame that is said to be 350kg lighter than the current structure.
There are also some well thought out touches too such as additional tie-down points integrated into the load bed, along with 110-volt electrical outlets in the cargo box to charge power tools. A 360-degree camera gives the driver a bird's eye view of the car as well, which would be handy for getting the behemoth into tight spaces.
Interior
The interior of the Atlas is functional yet refined with 'glove-friendly' buttons (i.e. big buttons) that will suit the expected 'rough and ready' buyer of the F-Series. They'll ride in thin, lightweight, leather bound seats that free up extra legroom for rear seat passengers.
Mechanicals
With emissions in mind the Atlas Concept features a next-generation EcoBoost engine (the capacity of which Ford has neglected to tell us) using stop-start to cut the engine off at a standstill. The efficiency is bolstered by aerodynamic tweaks such as active shutters for both the grille and wheels and power running boards that retract when the vehicle is on the move.
Anything else?
You may be wondering what relevance the super-sized Atlas has to the European market. Well the concept is likely to not only morph into the F-Series but also inspire the rest of Ford's truck range that includes the Ranger currently sold in Ireland.