Ford builds it, you test it

Only a select few usually get the opportunity to test out upcoming vehicles. Ford is bucking that trend by allowing customers to sign up at BuiltToughTest.com, and get the chance to explain how they would put the aluminum reinforced 2015 Ford F-150 to the test.

Product development does extensive testing to the extremes, going as far as disguising the F-150 and running it through the 2013 Baja 1000. Now that's all fine and dandy, but passing the keys off to real consumers and enthusiasts will likely yield the greatest testing results to date, in our opinion.

“We are looking for people who know how to punish a truck. 'Built Ford Tough' isn't just a tagline; it's the philosophy that drives us every day to make the best trucks out there, and it's what has made F-Series the No.1 truck for nearly 40 years,” said Eric Peterson, Ford F-150 marketing manager.

The marketing strategy -- contest, if you will -- has five winners total. So making a compelling test strategy will be important if you want to have the chance at beating on the new F-150 for nearly a week.

For you Ford slappys out there, the deadline for entries is May 31. Winners will be selected sometime around Sept. 1.

By Brad Wiley