2022 Ford Super Duty Tremor XLT Is Dead For A Sad Reason

Jul. 14, 2021 10:41 AM ET by Jay Traugott Trucks / 8 Comments

Will it return for 2023?

Automakers are continuing to make tough decisions regarding production because of the semiconductor chip crisis. There simply aren't enough of those crucial chips to retain normal production outputs, so it boils down to which models are most important. Not surprisingly, trucks and SUVs are a priority because they are in-demand money makers. But not all of these rigs can survive the chip shortage. One of them is the 2022 Ford Super Duty Tremor XLT.

A Ford representative confirmed to TFL Truck that the entry-level XLT trim for the F-250 and F-350 Tremor off-road package will not be returning for the upcoming model year.

"The Super Duty Tremor does continue for the '22MY (model year)! Due to the chip shortages, the XLT Tremor was removed from our offering in 22MY."

The Tremor kit can still be had with the 2022 Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum trims, fortunately. Those who were planning to buy a new Super Duty Tremor XLT are probably already out of luck because Ford has closed the order books for 2021. The official Ford website makes this clear because the model/trim can't be ordered anymore. The 2022 Super Duty lineup receives an updated interior and higher trim levels get a new 12-inch infotainment screen and an updated SYNC system. It's way too soon to know whether the most affordable Super Duty Tremor will return for 2023.

The chip shortage crisis may not be fully resolved by then, but it'll definitely be in better shape than it is today. Industry analysts predict some relief by the middle of next year but a complete recovery back to pre-pandemic chip levels will require additional time. Ford's decision to cancel the 2022 Super Duty Tremor XLT probably boiled down to sales figures. The higher trims, though more expensive, were probably more popular and they also have greater profit margins.

For now, there's no indication the 2022 F-150 Tremor will be affected by the shortage. It's still possible certain features that require these chips, like start/stop, could be temporarily eliminated. We'll just have to wait and see.