How Are Truck Engines Getting Smaller But Create Just As Much Power?

Every year, it seems that your local Ford Dealer has more prominent, more powerful, and higher performance-based trucks. At the same time, more modern trucks aren’t just coming with the giant engines you’d expect. Many trucks are coming equipped with smaller engines, and that doesn’t seem to be causing any concerns.

Here’s what you need to know about the smaller engines that are delivering the massive power specs on your favorite trucks.

Why Go Smaller?

One of the prime reasons that drivers are looking for smaller engines deals with fuel economy. The price of gas certainly isn’t going down, so a more fuel-efficient engine can cost drivers a ton of money over time.

Anyone at your local Ford Dealer will tell you that most people are deciding to forego the V8 offered on the Ford F-150. Over the past year, nearly 50% of buyers have opted for Ford’s EcoBoost or another V6 engine option.

As a whole, truck sales are showing that Americans are downsizing their trucks. We’re seeing more mid-size trucks gain attention and come to market. Vehicles like the Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Tacoma, and Honda Ridgeline are seeing renewed attention as drivers look for something that will save them money and take up less room in their driveways.

Turn It Up With Advanced Engines

Of course, just because drivers are looking to save money on fuel costs and sticker prices doesn’t mean they don’t crave power. Modern trucks are utilizing different powertrain technologies to make them more powerful.

The turbo engine, for example, has been a popular engine for decades. A turbo engine employs fan blades that compress fresh air that is forced back into the engine. Exhaust gases power these fans. The end result is an engine that produces the same amount of horsepower and torque as larger versions. You also get to enjoy greater fuel economy.

Other technologies help smaller engines keep up with high power demands. Many auto manufacturers are improving on technologies like direct injection, variable valve/cam timing, and more.

Even without innovative engine technologies, newer trucks are out-performing trucks of the past. From upgraded transmissions to lighter-weight construction materials, the mere construction of modern pickups is allowing drivers to enjoy plenty of pick up with a smaller engine.

The Future is Wide Open

Another factor to consider when it comes to newer trucks available at your local Ford Dealer is the focus on eco-friendly options. With the release of trucks like the Ford Lightning and the GMC Hummer EV, drivers will be able to cruise through town in a fully electric truck.

One of the most significant perks of an electric powertrain is that power is available much faster than it is with a gas engine. Manufacturers are able to produce some pretty impressive horsepower and torque numbers with a massively smaller powertrain.

All of this is not to say that giant engines are going away. Your Ford Dealer will still have plenty of V8 trucks available for sale. At the same time, you’ll have more options for fuel-efficient, less expensive, and more powerful engines to ensure you get what you get precisely what you need from your next pickup truck.