Ford unveils 2018 Special Service F-150 and Expedition

They might be the only new vehicles sold in the U.S. with high-strength aluminum-alloy bodies, vinyl seats and 10-speed column-mounted shifters—and it’s just the way their customers want them.

For its law enforcement, government and fleet customers, Ford is unveiling its new 2018 F-150 Special Service Vehicle and all-new 2018 Expedition Special Service Vehicle designed to meet their specialized needs.

Ford reports that its 2018 F-150 SSV features a segment-exclusive combination of advanced materials that are durable and inhibit corrosion, technologies that improve productivity, efficiency and driver confidence, plus the best towing capability of any F-150 to date.

The all-new 2018 Expedition SSV provides fleets with ample interior space, connectivity and new technology for specialized applications.

2018 Expedition Special Service Vehicle

Both vehicles have updated powertrains, including a second-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost or newly upgraded 5.0-liter V8 for F-150, paired to a segment-exclusive 10-speed automatic. The Ford-built transmission delivers improved acceleration and performance over previous six-speed automatics. Expedition is powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost. Both vehicles add Auto Start-Stop for greater fuel efficiency. On Expedition SSV, a 3.73 rear differential is now an electronic limited-slip differential.

A high-output 240-amp alternator replaces the stock unit to accommodate for extended idle times and meet the demands for additional on-board electrical power in both vehicles.

Standard 40/20/40 seats are replaced with 40/blank/40 seats, with the center section deleted to create more space for customization. Because law enforcement, government and fleet work can be messy, a vinyl bench in place of the rear seat aids in quick cleanup, while easy-to-clean vinyl flooring replaces carpeting.

According to Ford, law enforcement agencies are increasingly looking to vehicles beyond the traditional sedan for specialized duty.

“While our Police Interceptor Utility remains the best-selling law enforcement vehicle in the country by a large margin, some agencies need to haul five people with higher equipment-carrying capacity, or off-road capabilities are required,” said Stephen Tyler, Ford police brand marketing manager. “That’s where the F-150 SSV and Expedition SSV come in.”

F-150 SSV provides a selection of configurations so fleets can pick what best suits their needs. Available in XL trim for F-150 SuperCrew or SuperCab configuration, customers can opt for either a 4×4 or 4×2 drivetrain. Whether equipped with the V8 or high-torque EcoBoost, power is not a problem for customers choosing either of these Special Service Vehicles.