Why The Ford F-150 Diesel Pickup Was Discontinued

The 3.0L Power Stroke V6 turbo-diesel engine was first available in 2018 and an option for the popular F-150 truck. The graphite-iron casted engine block, with a variable-geometry turbocharger could generate 250 horsepower, and 440-pound feet of torque. This engine also features impressive gas milage for some F-150 models with up to a 30-mpg highway EPA estimate. While diesel has been the go-to for heavy-duty hauling and towing, Ford ended production of their 3.0L Power Stroke turbo-diesel in 2021.

Despite the engine's power and gas mileage, Ford felt it had to move forward without the engine in its portfolio. There were two key points made about why the diesel option was being discontinued in the memo. First, an international semiconductor shortage forced the automaker to narrow their focus on production. Secondly, other engine configurations were outselling the diesel with drivers considering the Ford F-150 EcoBoost vs PowerBoost models, ultimately overshadowing the turbo-diesel. 

In 2020, a volatile mixture of economic issues, and manufacturing challenges, led to the scarcity of a critical component. This component, a semiconductor, is found inside everything from small electronics to major telecommunications infrastructures. Modern automobiles also rely heavily on these chips, creating a significant production dilemma, particularly during 2021. According to Statista.com, "When demand for new vehicles finally did return, carmakers were unable to source enough semiconductors, forcing them to restrict production once more. Consequently, global car sales in 2021 were down by more than 12 percent compared to 2019, resulting in a loss of some 210 million U.S. dollars in revenue for the global automotive industry."

As automakers scrambled to produce enough units for new customers, Ford decided to utilize their semiconductor chips in select models. While the 3.0L Power Stroke V6 turbo-diesel has its fans, and had just launched a few years prior, the scant amount of available chips were allocated elsewhere.

Customers also weren't buying many turbo-diesel F-150s. Instead, drivers were choosing the EcoBoost V6 gasoline configuration of the popular pickup. The 2.7L EcoBoost twin turbo V6 is an attractive alternative with 325 horsepower and 400-pound feet of torque. The 3.5L PowerBoost hybrid V6 offers even more robust output with 430 horsepower and 570-pound feet of torque.

Another factor was Ford's pricing. Drivers comparing diesel vs. gasoline engines were not only considering output, but total cost as well. Those wanting a new F-150 at the time, would have to grapple with a nearly $4,000 increase for a Power Stroke diesel. Tightening consumer budgets could also account for the release of the 2022 Ford Maverick – the 40-mpg pickup starting at $20,995.