Ford is set to make its mark in the intense world of rally racing with the new Ford Ranger Raptor T1+. The Dakar Rally, known for its demanding off-road stages, is a highly respected event in the rally racing community. Winning the rally can earn a driver, car, or manufacturer a prestigious place in rally history. Ford aims to achieve this distinction with its latest Raptor machine, the Ford Ranger Raptor.
The Ford Ranger Raptor is known for its increased power and performance, with the Raptor name being synonymous with high-performance off-road capabilities. In line with this, Ford has developed the Ford Ranger Raptor T1+ specifically designed to compete for victory at the 2024 Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia.
The Dakar Rally presents a new frontier for Ford Performance, who have already achieved victories at renowned racing venues such as Le Mans, Monaco, and Daytona. By entering the Dakar Rally, Ford not only aims to win in the T1+ category but also to gather valuable knowledge and information that can be used for future rally efforts and the development of production performance off-roaders.
The Ranger Raptor T1+ is based on the previous generation Ranger and is equipped with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine. Before participating in the Dakar Rally, it will compete in the Baja España Aragón and the Rally du Maroc. In preparation for the 2025 Dakar Rally, Ford Performance and M-Sport plan to create a custom-built Ranger Raptor T1+ that adheres to the category’s regulations.
Ford’s decision to venture into the Dakar Rally is an exciting announcement that showcases the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries in the racing world.