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11/20/2023

A Century of Tailgate Innovation

For nearly a century, Ford engineers have adapted and improved tailgate experiences to meet the needs of station wagon, SUV and truck customers.

A man opening a truck bed

See How Ford Has Been Keeping Tailgate Innovations Front and Center for 100 Years

As long as Ford has been producing pickups, station wagons and SUVs, we’ve been creating innovations to make them more capable and easier for our customers to use. With F-Series leading the way, Ford has continued to advance tailgates since the 1920s, with the new Pro Access Tailgate on the 2024 Ford F-150 kicking off the second century of modernizations. Scroll through to see highlights of Ford’s innovations from the past 100 years.

100 Years of Tailgate Tech

Take a trip through a century of tailgating and discover the innovations that have made work and play part of the Ford tradition.

1925 first pickup

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, that is committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for and deepen the loyalty of those customers. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, as well as connected services. Additionally, Ford is establishing leadership positions in mobility solutions, including self-driving technology, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 182,000 people worldwide. More information about the company, its products and Ford Credit is available at corporate.ford.com.