Ford Updates Cash-Cow ‘Super Duty’ Truck as Rivals Raise the Bar

Ford Motor Co. is beefing up its biggest F-Series trucks with more-powerful engines and high-tech touches as it confronts new competition from Fiat Chrysler’s resurgent Ram and General Motors Co.’s Chevrolet Silverado.

At the Chicago Auto Show this week, Ford is rolling out freshened versions of its Super Duty pickups -- F-250 up to F-450 -- and introducing new gasoline and diesel engines that will allow these heavy-duty trucks to haul and tow more. The automaker, which dominates the growing U.S. commercial-vehicle market, also is adding advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and technology that keeps the trucks in their lanes.