A lot of people became anxious recently following the delay of the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptors due to last minute tests that were needed for the new model. For some, the anxiousness has been lifted as Ford rolls out half of the delayed 2017 F-150 Raptors.
The Raptors Partially Unleashed
It appears that the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptors have already been unleashed, albeit partially. According to a report from Reuters, a spokeswoman from Ford confirmed that over half of the 15,000 units of the 2017 Raptors that were delayed have already been released. Some of those that made their reservations earlier can now get their 2017 Ford F-150 Raptors in their respective dealers while the rest will have to wait a little longer.
Taking Extra Precaution
Earlier reports stated that the reason for the delay was caused by the new 10-speed transmission that needed to be further tested. Apparently, the new 10-speed automatic transmission is a result of General Motors and Ford teaming up as reported by CNET. Joe Hinrichs, head of Ford in America stated that holding the trucks was the prudent thing to do. "In the normal course of business, when we have a new product launch - this is a new product launch for that transmission - we wanted to be extra sure, to do extra testing," said Hinrichs. Generally, the automakers are taking extra precautions in order to make sure that everything is in proper order the first time to avoid costly recalls.
Sales Not Affected
Reports stated that Ford's F-Series pickup trucks hold the longest best-selling truck record in the U.S. auto market, having been there for 40 years. Even with the delayed delivery of the 2017 F-150 Raptors, it looks like this is not going to change any time soon. Hinrichs stated that the delayed shipments will not affect the company's fourth quarter profit picture because they will all be shipped before the end of the year.
