Ben Welham
October 18, 2024
Over the last decade, pickup truck exterior design has seen a remarkable evolution as it aims to meet the changing (and increasingly awkward) demands of drivers.
A Look Back at Pickup Truck Exterior Design of the Last 10 Years
Looking back at truck design of the last decade with trucks such as the Ram and Ford F-150.
In the latter half of the decade, pickup trucks began to embrace luxury and customization
This transformation has pushed the boundaries of what a pickup truck can be.
The Rise of Bold, Aggressive Front Fascias
In the early 2010s, manufacturers like Ford and RAM began to really emphasize bolder, more aggressive front-end designs – a bit like a peacock doing its mating dance.
The Ford F-150, for example, introduced a massive grille with angular, muscular lines that convey strength and dominance.
Similarly, RAM’s trucks featured a more pronounced “RAM” badging in massive letters, making a statement on both highways and job sites.
Streamlining for Efficiency’s Sake
As fuel efficiency became a growing concern, pickup trucks began incorporating more aerodynamic designs.
The Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra exemplified this shift with sleeker body lines and refined aerodynamics to help improve overall efficiency.
These changes were not just about reducing drag but also about creating a modern, sophisticated look that appeals to a broader audience, including urban drivers who want to maximize their MPGs.
Embracing Hi-Tech Lights
The past decade also saw a significant shift towards advanced lighting technology as a key design element.
LED headlights and taillights became standard on many models, such as the Toyota Tundra and the Nissan Titan.
These lights not only improved visibility but also added a futuristic touch to the trucks’ exteriors.
The Move Towards Luxury and Customization
In the latter half of the decade, pickup trucks began to embrace luxury and customization.
Models like the GMC Sierra Denali and the Ford F-150 Platinum offer more sparkly chrome accents, premium paint finishes and even more personalization options.
