Author Topic: The case against American truck bloat  (Read 623 times)

ergophobe

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The case against American truck bloat
« on: August 13, 2020, 04:33:25 PM »
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Furthermore, the specific design trend of the massive hood sticking way out in front of the driver, with a cliff-face front grille obstructing the view several feet out in front of the wheels, is entirely a marketing gimmick. The explicit point is to create an angry, aggressive face that will intimidate others, especially pedestrians. Don't take it from me, take it from the guy who designed the latest GM Sierra HD: "The front end was always the focal point... we spent a lot of time making sure that when you stand in front of this thing it looks like it's going to come get you. It's got that pissed-off feel," he told Muscle Cars & Trucks.

https://theweek.com/articles/929196/case-against-american-truck-bloat

rcjordan

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Re: The case against American truck bloat
« Reply #1 on: August 13, 2020, 04:47:12 PM »
No better example of this than the Ford F150 Raptor.  You're paying $30k for aggressive design.  It is still a light-duty truck with, IMO, weak bones (chassis).

Travoli

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Re: The case against American truck bloat
« Reply #2 on: August 13, 2020, 05:03:27 PM »
The F150 Raptor is more of a Baja race truck than a work vehicle. I'm excited to see the rumored Raptor Bronco, but not excited enough to sell old faithful.

I understand the author's point. Americans older than 30 probably still feel a cultural connection with their vehicle, or that it is an extension of their personality. Mid 20's down, its an appliance, expense and responsibility they'd rather not deal with. My 17 Y.O niece and her friends don't want to drive. Would rather Uber. End of the Brodozer era?
« Last Edit: August 13, 2020, 05:17:59 PM by Travoli »