In 2024, at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed, Ford unveiled the Ford Raptor T1+, a fierce-looking off-roader that is specifically designed to compete in the grueling Dakar Rally. Developed in collaboration with Ford Performance and M-Sport Ltd, renowned for its rally expertise, this vehicle is equipped with a powerful 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine, a dry-sump oil system, and a unique exhaust system visible at the rear. The Raptor T1+ features Fox three-way adjustable and four-way adjustable external bypass dampers, providing 13.8 inches of wheel travel, and rides on 37-inch tires fitted onto 17-inch aluminum wheels. With a ground clearance of 15.7 inches and a body constructed of carbon fiber panels, this beast is ready to tackle the toughest terrains.
At the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Ford Raptor T1+ made its debut, showcasing a striking livery that highlights Ford’s partnership with Red Bull. The vehicle proudly displays Raptor branding and features a unique “RAPTOR” logo on the front skid plate. Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports, emphasized the collaboration with M-Sport and Red Bull, underscoring the seriousness with which Ford is approaching this project. The Raptor T1+ symbolizes Ford’s commitment to global off-road excellence and serves as a testament to their dedication to proving their prowess in the most challenging environments, such as the Dakar Rally.
Ford has ambitious plans for the Raptor T1+, aiming to compete in several rally events leading up to the Dakar Rally. With seasoned drivers Carlos Sainz Sr. and Nani Roma confirmed for the race, along with two additional unnamed drivers, Ford is positioning itself as a formidable contender in the rally world. By participating in events like the Baja 1000 and Finke Desert Race, Ford aims to leverage the insights gained from the Raptor T1+ to enhance their production Raptor vehicles for consumers. The Raptor T1+ represents Ford’s commitment to pushing boundaries and continually raising the bar in off-road performance.
The Ford Raptor T1+ serves as a testament to Ford’s global off-road vision, embodying their determination to compete against the best in the most challenging environments on Earth. By partnering with leading entities in the motorsports industry, such as M-Sport and Red Bull, Ford emphasizes the value they place on expertise and innovation. The development and testing of the Raptor T1+ in demanding rally conditions will inform future advancements in the Raptor lineup, ensuring that customers receive vehicles that are unparalleled in off-road capabilities.
If you happen to be at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the Ford Raptor T1+ up close and personal, showcasing its impressive off-road prowess and striking design. From its aggressive stance to its high-performance components, the Raptor T1+ is a visual and technical marvel that represents the pinnacle of off-road engineering. As Ford gears up for the Dakar Rally and other prestigious events, the Raptor T1+ stands as a beacon of their commitment to excellence in off-road racing.
In conclusion, the Ford Raptor T1+ is a formidable contender in the world of off-road racing, with its cutting-edge design, powerful performance, and unwavering commitment to excellence setting it apart from the competition. As it embarks on its journey to conquer the Dakar Rally and other challenging events, the Raptor T1+ exemplifies Ford’s dedication to pushing boundaries and redefining what is possible in the realm of off-road vehicles. With an impressive lineup of drivers and a strong partnership with industry leaders, Ford is poised to make a lasting impact on the world of off-road racing with the Raptor T1+.