Ford is seeking upwards of 20,000 consumers to test-drive the 2011 F-150 trucks. This offer, which is being made months in advance of the new models appearing in dealer showrooms nationwide, is effective immediately.

Dubbed the Built Ford Tough Roundup, the intent of the program is to show off the most extensive powertrain overhaul in the 62-year history of the F-Series to its distribution network as well as consumers.

If you are so inclined for a closer look and a test drive, Ford awaits eagerly to hear from you and can be reached online at DriveF150.com. From that site, consumers can share the link on Facebook and then write about it on their walls.

This is the second major automaker sited within a week to be using its Facebook presence to reach out to its followers. Audi recently opted to make its TT RS model available in the U.S. based on consumers’ feedback stemming from a petition on its FB page.

Mr. Mark Grueber, F-150 marketing manager, said “It’s a great opportunity for people to experience how the new F-150 compares to the competition in back-to-back drives and do things they would not be able to do easily in a dealership test drive.”

Effective now and running through November, the extensive test-drive tour will be in Aberdeen, Atlanta, Dallas, Detroit, Houston, L.A., and Orlando. Ford also will be at the State Fair in Dallas. Along with the trucks’ new powertrain, four new engines also will be showcased, including the d 3.5-liter EcoBoost.

While the official purpose of Ford’s early bird test-drive program is to introduce the most extensive powertrain overhaul in the 62-year history of F-Series, it also gives the automaker a significant jumpstart on the competition. It is likely the effectiveness of this campaign will be an industry-wide curiosity.