Why does the 2009 F-150 need 10 Million variations?

Just build one great truck with a few simple trims/variations, why build a truck with 10 million option possibilities?

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Domestic pickups are famous for being available in a massive array of different trims, cab sizes, and powertrain options, and with 10 million different configurations the 2009 F-150 should live up to this reputation. But if that number sounds like a lot, you might be surprised to learn that it's approximately 99% fewer combinations than are available on the current model, which can literally be outfitted in billions of different ways. Even with annual sales approaching 400,000 vehicles, according to Ford truck and SUV group marking manager Mike Crowley this meant the company was "building custom units each time they went down the line," which severely ate into profits.

Central to cutting the number of F-150 combinations available for 2009, Ford decided to make several highly-popular features standard, such as air conditioning and an automatic transmission. In addition unpopular extras like the rear-seat DVD entertainment system were cut, since dealers already offer headrest-mounted DVD screens as an accessory. In addition several major convenience options, such as keyless entry and adjustable pedals, are now available in a single package like on many cars, which cuts the number of different wiring harnesses used in the truck. And since Dearborn expects more customers to opt for the package, it can actually offer the features at a lower price.



Source: http://www.trucktrend.com/features/news/2008/163_news080819_ford_cuts_2009_f150_combos/index.html