With its sights set on the grueling Dakar Rally, Ford Performance has teamed up with some of the best minds in off-road racing to create the new Ford Raptor T1+ – the pinnacle of Raptor design and capability. This beast of a truck applies learnings from the 2024 Dakar Rally to deliver advanced suspension, V8 performance, and a purpose-built design to conquer the most unforgiving rally raid terrains.
Key Features and Specifications
- Advanced Suspension: The Ford Raptor T1+ features front and rear independent double-wishbone suspension, developed in partnership with Fox. The suspension includes coilover three-way adjustable and four-way adjustable external bypass dampers with remote reservoirs, ensuring superior handling and durability in extreme conditions. The truck sits on 8.5-inch by 17-inch aluminum wheels with 37-inch tires and is equipped with front and rear 355mm Alcon ventilated discs and six-piston monoblock calipers. The Raptor T1+ boasts up to 350mm of wheel travel.
- V8 Performance: Under the hood, the Ford Raptor T1+ is powered by a 5.0L Coyote-based engine, delivering the power and torque needed to tackle rugged terrains. The engine features a unique dry-sump oil system and a tuned exhaust, specifically designed for the challenges of Dakar.
- Purpose-Built Off-Road Design: The Raptor T1+ combines functionality with Ford’s signature Raptor aesthetics. It features a T45 steel spaceframe and carbon fiber body panels, providing a lightweight yet robust structure. With 400mm ground clearance, a wide stance for improved off-road stability, and a chiseled grille with “FORD” boldly spelled across the front, the Raptor T1+ offers both striking appearance and performance benefits. The vehicle has a minimum weight of 2,010kgs, a width of 2,300mm, and an approach angle of over 70°.
Collaborations and Testing
Engineered in collaboration with long-term Ford Performance partners M-Sport Ltd., the Raptor T1+ debuted at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed. Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports, highlighted the importance of this project: “Taking on such a demanding race like Dakar is a daunting task for all of us at Ford Performance, but we have never shirked a challenge. Partnering with M-Sport and Red Bull shows how seriously we are taking this project.”
The Ford Raptor T1+ will be driven by four teams of drivers and navigators, including rally legends Carlos Sainz Sr. with navigator Lucas Cruz, and Nani Roma with navigator Alex Haro.
Testing and Readiness
Matt Wilson, M-Sport director and Dakar team manager, expressed excitement for the adventure ahead: “We have already completed 10,000 kilometers (6,213 miles) of testing in some of the harshest conditions we could find so we feel ready to take on this ultimate challenge starting at Baja Hungary next month.”
Source: Ford
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