Despite the world financial crisis, the F-150 remained on top of the customers’ preferences, and the carmaker introduced a new model in 2009.
Ford showcased the F-150 at the 2008 North American International Motor Show. While the U.S. economy crumbled due to the financial crisis, Ford marched with its best-selling product of all times. Its hopes were high, and the twelfth F-150 generation had to pull them out from troubles (some Government money helped too).

The vehicle finally entered the assembly line in October 2008 as a 2009 model year. Ford built it in a few body versions, starting with the Regular-Cab option. It was the contractor’s workhorse, and its short cabin allowed only two doors and a thick B-pillar behind them. The carmaker offered it with either a bare-chassis or with a choice of beds. If the most extended version was not enough, the carmaker added a clever system that allowed the load to be kept safe with the tailgate open. Ford built the pickup for truckers and made a new chassis for the F-150, which was lighter and stronger than the one fitted under the eleventh series.

With the Regular-cab, Ford aimed at those who used the pickup mostly, or only, for work. Its cabin was available with either two seats or a bench seat with seating for three. The XL (base) version featured a radio, AC, and cranked windows, while the highest trim level provided the comfort needed by company owners.

Under the hood, Ford installed a choice of three V-8 engines for the Regular-Cab version, with an option for either rear or 4x4 systems.