All-New Ford Raptor T1+ Set to Conquer Toughest Rally Raid Terrains including Legendary Dakar

The epitome of Ford Performance Raptor design and capability, tailor-made to tackle the challenges of the Dakar Rally

Alongside elite off-road racing specialists, Ford Performance has engineered the ultimate off-road machine - the Ford Raptor T1+. Taking cues from the demanding Dakar Rally, this truck features state-of-the-art suspension, a high-performance V8 engine, and a purpose-built design to conquer the most challenging rally raid terrains.

Making its debut at the esteemed Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Raptor T1+ is a product of collaboration with long-standing Ford Performance partners, M-Sport Ltd.

“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. “To embrace this challenge, we have partnered with the best in the world with M-Sport and Red Bull and I think it shows how seriously we are taking this project. The Ford Raptor T1+ is a stake in the ground for our global off-road vision – we want to take on the best and prove ourselves in the toughest places on earth. The lessons we are learning from Raptor T1+, along with competing with stock trucks in Baja 1000 and Finke Desert Race, will help make Raptor vehicles even better for our customers.”

Four teams of drivers and navigators are ready to take on the new Ford Raptor T1+, with rally stars Carlos Sainz Sr. and Lucas Cruz, along with Nani Roma and Alex Haro leading the charge. Keep an eye out for more team reveals coming soon.

“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 director and Dakar team manager. “We have already completed 10,000 kilometers (6,213 miles) of testing in some of the harshest conditions we could find so we feel ready to take on this ultimate challenge starting at Baja Hungary next month.”

Top Characteristics of the Ford Raptor T1+:

Advanced Suspension: The Ford Raptor T1+ comes equipped with a cutting-edge front and rear independent double-wishbone suspension system, developed in collaboration with Fox. This setup includes coilover three-way adjustable and four-way adjustable external bypass dampers with remote reservoirs on all four wheels, guaranteeing top-notch performance and resilience in even the harshest environments.

Equipped with 8.5-inch by 17-inch aluminum wheels and 37-inch tires, the Ford Raptor T1+ features front and rear 355mm Alcon ventilated discs and six piston monoblock calipers. With up to 350mm of wheel travel, this vehicle is ready for any terrain.

V8 Performance: Featuring a 5.0L Coyote-based engine, the Ford Raptor T1+ is built to handle rough terrain with its exceptional power and torque. It also boasts a special dry-sump oil system and a tuned exhaust system tailored for the demands of Dakar.

Purpose-built Off-Road Design: Featuring a robust T45 steel spaceframe and stylish carbon fiber body panels, the Ford Raptor T1+ seamlessly merges functionality with Ford's signature Raptor aesthetics. From its 400mm ground clearance to its wide stance for enhanced off-road stability, this vehicle is designed to impress. The chiseled grille proudly displaying FORD across the front adds to its striking appearance, while the minimum weight of 2,010kgs, width of 2,300mm, and approach angle of over 70° ensure top-notch performance.

Race Schedule:

2024 Baja Hungary (Aug. 8-10): Following the departure of the Ford Raptor T1+ from Goodwood, a team will make its competition debut in Hungary. Baja Hungary is renowned for its intricate course that pushes drivers to demonstrate their most advanced technical driving abilities, providing the team with an opportunity to implement their technical expertise and optimize the vehicle's performance.

2024 Rallye du Maroc (Oct. 4-11): Ahead of the Dakar Rally, two teams face off in a crucial final testing ground. Rallye du Maroc will feature a range of challenging terrains that closely mimic those found in Saudi Arabia. This weeklong competition is scheduled to take place in Morocco.

2025 Dakar Rally (Jan. 4-17, 2025): The 2025 Dakar Rally will be a true test of grit and determination for the Ford Raptor T1+ team. They're aiming for a historic win to showcase the exceptional abilities of both driver and machine. All four teams are preparing to go head-to-head in this prestigious event.

Join Ford Performance at 11 a.m. on July 12 in the Ballroom Paddock during the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed for an exclusive look at the Ford Raptor T1+.