The first pickup truck was the Model T Runabout with Pickup Body, released in 1925 by Ford Motor Company. This model was the first mass-produced pickup truck, and it is widely considered to be the beginning of the modern pickup truck.
The Model T Runabout with Pickup Body was a two-door vehicle with a flatbed body attached to it. It had an open cab and no side windows, but it featured a rear window at the back of the cab. The extended flatbed could be used to transport goods and materials.
The Model T Runabout with Pickup Body had a four-cylinder 20-horsepower engine that could reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. It had two forward speeds and one reverse speed, which were controlled by a three-pedal system.
The pedal on the far left operated the brakes, the middle pedal shifted gears, and the right pedal was for starting and stopping. This model also came equipped with lights, a horn, and an electric starter.
The Ford Model T Runabout with Pickup Body cost around $281 in 1925 which is approximately $4100 today when adjusting for inflation. Despite its higher price tag than other vehicles of its time, this pickup truck sold well due to its versatility and performance compared to other available models.
Conclusion
The Ford Model T Runabout with Pickup Body, released in 1925 by Ford Motor Company, is widely considered to be the first mass-produced pickup truck in history. Its higher price tag than other vehicles of its time did not hinder its sales due to its performance and versatility.