Ford Raptor T1+: Ready to Conquer Rally Raid Terrains – Including the Dakar
The new Ford Raptor T1+ represents the pinnacle of Ford Performance Raptor design and capability, meticulously engineered to tackle the formidable Dakar Rally. Featuring advanced suspension systems with adjustable Fox bypass dampers, this vehicle ensures exceptional handling and durability in extreme conditions. The robust Coyote-based V8 5.0L engine provides the necessary power and torque to master rugged terrains.
Developed in collaboration with Ford Performance and M-Sport, the Ford Raptor T1+ will be piloted by elite drivers Carlos Sainz Sr. and Nani Roma starting in August.
GOODWOOD, England, July 12, 2024 – With an eye on the grueling off-road Dakar Rally, Ford Performance, in collaboration with some of the best minds in off-road racing, has designed and engineered the new Ford Raptor T1+ – the pinnacle of Raptor design and capability.
Leveraging insights from this year’s Dakar Rally, the Raptor T1+ boasts an advanced suspension system, V8 performance, and a purpose-built design to conquer the most challenging rally raid terrains. Debuting at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Raptor T1+ was developed in partnership with long-term Ford Performance allies, M-Sport Ltd.
“Taking on a race as demanding as Dakar is a daunting task for everyone at Ford Performance, but we have never shied away from a challenge,” said Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Performance Motorsports. “To embrace this challenge, we have partnered with the best in the world with M-Sport and Red Bull, showcasing our serious commitment to this project. The Ford Raptor T1+ represents our global off-road vision – we aim to compete with the best and prove ourselves in the toughest environments on Earth. The lessons learned from the Raptor T1+, along with competing with stock trucks in the Baja 1000 and Finke Desert Race, will enhance Raptor vehicles for our customers.”
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. Additional teams will be announced later this year.
“This opportunity is a once-in-a-lifetime chance – supporting Ford Performance as they head to Dakar with the new Ford Raptor T1+ will be an incredible adventure,” said Matt Wilson, M-Sport Director and Dakar Team Manager. “We have already completed 10,000 kilometers (6,213 miles) of testing in some of the harshest conditions imaginable, so we feel ready to take on this ultimate challenge, starting with Baja Hungary next month.”
Key Features of the Ford Raptor T1+:
Advanced Suspension: The Ford Raptor T1+ is equipped with a front and rear independent double-wishbone suspension system in collaboration with Fox. Each wheel is outfitted with coilover three-way adjustable and four-way adjustable external bypass dampers with remote reservoirs, ensuring superior handling and durability in extreme conditions.
V8 Performance: Powered by a 5.0L Coyote-based engine, the Ford Raptor T1+ delivers the necessary power and torque to conquer rugged terrain. It features a unique dry-sump oil system and a tuned exhaust designed specifically for the challenges of Dakar.
Purpose-built Off-Road Design: Constructed with a T45 steel spaceframe and carbon fiber body panels, the Raptor T1+ combines functionality with Ford’s signature Raptor aesthetics. It boasts 400mm ground clearance, a wide stance for improved off-road stability, and a chiseled grille with “FORD” emblazoned across the front. The vehicle has a minimum weight of 2,010kg, a width of 2,300mm, and an approach angle exceeding 70°.
Competition Schedule:
2024 Baja Hungary (Aug. 8-10): Shortly after its debut at Goodwood, one team will embark on the Raptor T1+’s competition debut in Hungary. Known for its twisting course, Baja Hungary offers the team an opportunity to apply technical learnings and optimize the vehicle.
2024 Rallye du Maroc (Oct. 4-11): Two teams will compete in this critical final testing ground ahead of the Dakar Rally. Rallye du Maroc, with its diverse and challenging terrains, closely mirrors those found in Saudi Arabia. This week-long competition will be held in Morocco.
2025 Dakar Rally (Jan. 4-17, 2025): The pinnacle of off-road endurance racing, the 2025 Dakar Rally will be the ultimate test for the Ford Raptor T1+. The team aims to demonstrate the exceptional capabilities of both driver and machine, striving for a landmark victory. All four teams will compete in the 2025 Dakar Rally.
Attendees of the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed can join Ford Performance for a closer look at the Ford Raptor T1+ at 11 a.m. on July 12, in the Ballroom Paddock.
