Ford has been making waves in the world of high-performance vehicles. Rolling out insane race cars left, right, and centre, many of which sport cutting-edge EV drivetrains. However, in a nod to their roots, Ford has unleashed a beast powered by the legendary Coyote V8 engine. Enter the Ford Raptor T1+. The pinnacle of Raptor design and capability, purpose-built to conquer the Dakar Rally.
The Pinnacle of Ford Performance: Raptor T1+
Revealed at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Ford Raptor T1+ is the epitome of off-road excellence. Designed as a collaboration between Ford Performance, and the lunatics at M-Sport who built a road-going rally Ranger (check out our yarn here), the Raptor T1+ shows just how serious Ford takes off-roading.
“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,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports. Ford picked Carlos Sainz Sr and Nani Roma to pilot the T1+ to Dakar. But we reckon they should give Pat a run at it on the Canning first.
One Hell Of A Suspension Setup
One of the standout features of the Ford Raptor T1+ is its wild suspension system. Ford has partnered with Fox to equip the T1+ with front and rear independent double-wishbone suspension. Each wheel is outfitted with coilover three-way adjustable and four-way adjustable external bypass dampers with remote reservoirs, the setup is good for a huge 350mm of wheel travel on each corner. Paired with 17in beadlocked wheels wrapped in 37in tyres, the Raptor T1+ looks fast just sitting there.
Bringing Back The (V8) Beast
At the heart of the Raptor T1+ is the mighty 5.0L Coyote-based V8 engine, delivering bulk power and torque. The engine is fitted with a unique dry-sump oil system and a tuned exhaust, tailored for the extreme conditions of the Dakar Rally. Ford builds a variety of different Coyote engines, including one for the F-150. Mums the word on how much power it actually makes. But with the Dark Horse Mustang making 373kW (500hp) and 567Nm it’s safe to say a lot.
The Ford Raptor T1+ is not just about raw power; it’s a meticulously crafted off-road machine. Built on a T45 steel spaceframe with carbon fibre body panels, the T1+ combines strength with lightweight performance. It boasts a ground clearance of 400mm, a wide stance for improved stability, and the iconic chiseled grille with “FORD” proudly displayed across the front.
The Race Program
The Ford Raptor T1+ will soon prove its mettle across some of the most challenging off-road races:
Baja Hungary (Aug. 8-10, 2024): This will be the T1+’s competition debut, offering a technical course that will test the team’s driving skills.
Rallye du Maroc (Oct. 4-11, 2024): Two teams will tackle this event, which serves as a critical final testing ground ahead of the Dakar Rally, with terrains similar to those in Saudi Arabia.
Dakar Rally (Jan. 4-17, 2025): The ultimate test of endurance and skill, where all four teams will compete to showcase the capabilities of the Raptor T1+.
Conclusion
Ford’s return to the V8 with the Raptor T1+ is an exciting move for fans and a statement of their commitment to the V8 Coyote platform. This vehicle, born from a blend of innovation and heritage, is set to take on the toughest challenges and redefine what a performance 4X4 can do. Stay tuned, if the Raptor T1+ performs anywhere near the level of the milder Ranger Raptor race program it won’t be the last you hear of it.
