The patent describes a strategy of integrating batteries into a system-on-body system. It is equivalent to a skateboard chassis that is grow to be widespread for all-electric powered autos, in which batteries are mounted minimal in the ground. In Ford’s software, crossmembers are mounted concerning the still left and correct body rails. All those crossmembers supply distinctive battery housings, and are in addition supported by a metallic plate. This is noteworthy for a couple of factors. 
While in a lot of EV chassis the battery pack is a one, massive device positioned centrally concerning the axles, the crossmember strategy enables the batteries to be positioned in different locations of the body. In the summary, Ford claims a “plurality of electrical power storage modules are disposed inside a plurality of compartments,” which could have rewards for bodyweight distribution, producing simplicity, and NVH reduction.
Furthermore, the typical strategy of inserting a one, significant battery pack in the ground can result in shear stresses on a car construction. In Ford’s patent, the crossmembers do a lot more than merely household the batteries—they supply reinforcement to the body rails, aiding make the construction more powerful. The patent reads, “Every crossmember is welded to the still left body rail, and the correct body rail, and the plate. The plate is welded to the still left and correct body rails.” This subsequently enables the body rails (designed of metal or aluminum) to be thinner and lighter.
The quantity of battery-made up of crossmembers is described by the size of the body rails. This indicates that lengthier vehicles could have a lot more electrical power and vary on faucet. Is Ford currently imagining about making use of this strategy to significant-responsibility-sized pickups?
Ford suggests that a one motor could be mounted to the body “ahead or rearward of the electrical power storage models,” but the likely addition of a 2nd travel motor reverse the initial is outlined a lot of periods. Also explained is an arrangement for powering each and every wheel independently, working with its very own motor.
Attention-grabbing about this entire matter is how it truly is equivalent and various from what is been displayed by Rivian, the electric powered car startup in which Ford invested $500 million. Rivian’s skateboard chassis is also system-on-body, but utilizes a a lot more typical massive one battery pack, not the divided crossmember building strategy explained listed here. Nevertheless, Rivian has mentioned that its autos will be out there with person motors for each and every wheel.
Potentially you will find mental home sharing heading on concerning the manufacturers, and something could modify by the time their respective electric trucks reach production. Probably they are locked in a launch day race with the Tesla Cybertruck. Suffice to say, whichever Ford does with the electric powered F-150 will make it compared with any truck to at any time dress in the Blue Oval.