Ford has updated its Class 6 to 7 medium-duty F-650 and F-750 trucks with performance and service improvements for the 2018 model-year.

Electronic stability control and traction control brakes are now standard on 2018 F-650 and F-750 tractor models. The system will initially be optional on certain F-750 diesel air-braked straight trucks with high-center-of-gravity-body upfits.

Also added for 2018 is a new high-output 240-amp alternator available with the 6.8L V-10 gasoline powertrain. Designed for applications with high electrical demands, the higher output alternator eliminates the need to specify a second alternator or generator to power auxiliary lights and equipment.

An optional automatic regeneration inhibitor is being offered on 2018 diesel trucks to give the operator more control over when the engine goes into regeneration to clean the diesel particulate filter. The soot trap regeneration inhibitor allows a driver to postpone incinerating trapped soot until it can be performed in a preferred location.

To limit potential hood wear and front-end collision damage, a new bumper extension moves the full-width front bumper from flush with the grille to three inches in front of it. It provides added protection to the grille and components behind it in the case of a collision, potentially reducing repair costs.

Lastly, the oil and transmission fluid dipstick has been relocated on 2018 F-650 and F-750 diesel trucks to be accessible from ground level. The transmission fluid dipstick has also been moved to provide ground-level access on gasoline models.

"The success of our new truck design is apparent from our growing sales and the fact it was named Medium-Duty Truck of the Year by Work Truck magazine in 2016 and 2017," said Kevin Koester, Ford's medium-duty truck and Super Duty fleet marketing manager. "For 2018, we’re enhancing this successful platform based on customer feedback."