Ford E-Series
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The Ford E-Series, also known as the Econoline, is a line of full-size vans (both cargo and passenger) and truck chassis from Ford Motor Company. The E-series is related to the Ford F-Series line of pickup trucks. The line was introduced in 1961 and its descendents are still produced today. The Econoline is produced at Ford's Lorain, Ohio and Avon Lake, Ohio plants.
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1961
The 1961 E-Series truck placed the engine between and behind the front seats. It was an immediate success with utilities like the Bell Telephone System. It was originally offered as a cargo van, 8-passenger full-size van and pickup truck. Engines were Ford's 170CID and 240CID sixes. The model was updated in 1968 with Ford's "Twin I-Beam" front suspension, optional air conditioning and a V8 engine choice.
1970
The 1970 Ford E-Series changed van design by moving the engine all the way to the front under a short hood. Over the next five years, more vans would use this layout, with the engine eventually housed under a much more conventional truck-like hood.
1975
The E-Series was redone in 1975 with more environmental controls and a full frame design, allowing it to be used as a truck chassis. The nose now had a proper hood, very close to the length used today.
1992
The redesigned 1992 E-Series featured a 7.3 liter Power Stroke diesel engine as well as the Ford Triton engines. The consumer-oriented Chateau Club Wagon version was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 1992.
2001
For 2001, Ford again refreshed the E-Series, with a new E-150 Traveler model targeted at families.
2003
Econoline_black.jpg
For 2003, Ford refreshed the E-Series by changing the grille style, incorporating an integral Ford logo.
2006
The Econoline and E-Series body is expected to be refreshed for 2006 (code name VN127).