Ford Raptor T1+ Redefines Off-Road Performance, Roars onto the Dakar Rally Scene

Jul 13, 2024 12:11 AM EDT

Ford had announced its plans to run a Raptor racer in Dakar in 2025. The car manufacturer unleashed Raptor T1+ at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Ford's 5.0-liter V8 gives power to Raptor T1+.

Rally Car from Ford, Raptor T1+

After the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Ford targets Dakar Rally for Raptor T1+'s next run. The automaker built this truck in partnership with its Ford WRC partner M-Sport. One look and anyone would know this car's promising power. Those who love thrilling rides and adventure will take an interest in the Ford Raptor T1+. As reported by Autoblog, the Ford Raptor T1+ stands as a custom-crafted machine primed for the challenges of the Dakar Rally.

Featuring the renowned 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine delivering formidable power, the vehicle boasts a dry-sump oil system and a distinctive rear-facing exhaust design. Additionally, the Ford Raptor T1+ incorporates Fox dampers featuring advanced adjustability with external bypass capabilities and remote reservoirs. Highlighting a remarkable wheel travel of 13.8 inches, this beast cruises on 37-inch tires encasing 17-inch aluminum wheels.

Completing the package are Alcon discs paired with six-piston calipers on each corner, ensuring superior braking performance. With an impressive ground clearance of 15.7 inches, the vehicle's framework is composed entirely of lightweight carbon fiber panels.

Road & Track highlighted that the vehicle boasts impressive specifications, including a generous 400 mm ground clearance, 350 mm of wheel travel, and an exceptional approach angle exceeding 70 degrees. Road and Track reported that renowned Dakar champions Carlos Sainz Sr. and Nani Roma are set to pilot the Raptor T1+ in upcoming events, commencing with the Baja Hungary next month.

Following this, the trucks are scheduled to compete in Morocco in October before embarking on the ultimate challenge at the Dakar Rally in January 2025. Ford's ambition is to secure a victory that has eluded the brand thus far.

More from Ford Raptor T1+

The Ford Raptor T1+ is a head-turner with its design and color. As detailed by AutoGuide, The Ford Raptor T1+ is visually distinguished by its striking livery, showcasing Ford's collaboration with Red Bull through the incorporation of the iconic Red Bull colors and designs, alongside prominent Raptor branding.

The report also noted, that Mark Rushbrook's statement, the global director of Ford Performance Motorsports, highlighted the significance of this strategic alliance, underlining the commitment to excellence in the project.

He emphasized the partnership with M-Sport and Red Bull as a testament to Ford's dedication to the off-road domain. The Ford Raptor T1+ symbolizes the brand's bold step towards realizing its global off-road ambitions, aiming to compete against top contenders and demonstrate prowess in the world's most challenging terrains.

Insights gained from the Raptor T1+ and participation in events like the Baja 1000 and Finke Desert Race will be instrumental in enhancing future Raptor models to exceed customer expectations. The upcoming months will see Ford's strategic participation in multiple rally competitions with the Raptor T1+, leading up to the prestigious Dakar Rally scheduled for January.