Ford has finally revealed its Raptor T1+ rally raid car, set to compete in the Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia in January 2025. The American automaker is sending four of these beasts to take on the competition, marking a significant push into the world of rally racing.
Ford Unveils Raptor T1
Power and Performance
The Raptor T1+ is a powerhouse, developed with Ford Performance’s long-term partners M-Sport. It boasts a race spec, dry-sumped, Coyote-based 5.0-litre V8 engine. While FIA rules limit power to around 400bhp in the T1+ prototype class, the combination of power and noise is sure to thrill spectators and competitors alike.
Advanced Suspension and Robust Build
Fox has engineered the suspension, featuring a front and rear independent double-wishbone setup with three-way adjustable and four-way adjustable external bypass dampers with remote reservoirs at each wheel. The car rides on 17-inch aluminium wheels wrapped in massive 37-inch tyres. Stopping power is provided by Alcon brakes, with 355mm ventilated discs and six-piston calipers on both the front and rear.
The spaceframe is constructed from T45 steel tubing, but the Raptor T1+ also features carbon fibre body panels, ensuring a minimum weight of 2,010kg. The design is aggressive and stylish, highlighted by the iconic Ford grille and striking Red Bull livery.
Impressive Stats
The Raptor T1+ boasts 400mm of ground clearance and an approach angle of over 70 degrees, making it well-suited for the challenging terrains of the Dakar Rally.
Ready for the Challenge
“This is the kind of opportunity that comes once in a lifetime – to support Ford Performance as they head to Dakar with this new Ford Raptor T1+ is going to be an incredible adventure,” said Matt Wilson, M-Sport boss and Dakar team manager. He added that the team has already completed 10,000km (6,213 miles) of testing in some of the harshest conditions to prepare for this ultimate challenge.
Upcoming Competitions
The journey begins in Hungary, where the team will first compete with one car. Next, two cars will tackle the Rallye du Maroc in October. The final preparations will see four cars ready for the Dakar Rally. Notable drivers Carlos Sainz Sr and Nani Roma have already been confirmed, with additional drivers and navigators to be announced later this year.
As the countdown to Dakar 2025 continues, the excitement builds for Ford’s ambitious entry into one of the most grueling motorsport events in the world. Stay tuned for more updates on this incredible adventure!
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