The Ford Raptor T1+, forged through a longstanding partnership with M-Sport, is set to make waves in the upcoming Dakar Rally. With a driver lineup featuring rally legends such as Carlos Sainz Sr., Nani Roma, and Mattias Ekstrom, alongside up-and-coming talent Mitch Guthrie Jr., Ford is banking on both experience and youthful exuberance to conquer the 47th edition of this grueling test of endurance.
At the core of the Raptor T1+ is Ford’s formidable Coyote V8 engine, a powerhouse capable of producing impressive figures, specifically 268 kW (or 360 bhp). While these numbers are formidable on their own, they hinge on the new Torque Meter introduced by the FIA, which is set to refine the power delivery during the race. This engine configuration allows for power to be distributed to all four wheels, essential for navigating the varied terrain of the Dakar. The sizable 37-inch wheels, remarkably lightweight at just 30 kilograms, are designed for durability and traction, ensuring that the vehicle can tackle both sandy dunes and rocky trails with equal prowess.
The transmission of power is facilitated by a Sadev six-speed sequential gearbox, allowing for quick gear shifts that are crucial in rally racing scenarios. The torque distribution is intelligently managed through a limited-slip central differential, which drivers can adjust on-the-fly—this adaptability is vital when facing unpredictable conditions in the desert.
The Raptor boasts an independent front and rear suspension system, the design of which focuses on maximizing both durability and performance while minimizing unsprung mass. Equipped with a remarkable setup featuring eight FOX shock absorbers, this suspension uses a combination of four coilovers and four external bypass shocks to achieve an exceptional wheel travel of 350mm, aligning perfectly with competition regulations.
Interestingly, the FOX shock absorbers have a storied history in extreme off-road events, such as the Baja 1000 and King of the Hammers. Their capability to absorb massive impacts is enhanced by five adjustment levels, offering drivers the control needed to adapt to the terrain ahead. The incorporation of double Eibach springs introduces progressive stiffness, ensuring that even during intense jolts, the Raptor remains stable and comfortable.
An integral aspect of the Raptor’s performance is its advanced aerodynamics. Weighing in at 2,010 kg, this vehicle’s design echoes that employed in high-performance motorsports, like Formula 1. Ford’s commitment to aerodynamic efficiency is evident in the extensive use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) testing, complemented by wind tunnel assessments to refine the body shape. Such meticulous attention to aerodynamics facilitates improved handling both in straight lines and dynamic corners, giving Ford a competitive advantage in the challenging conditions of the Dakar Rally.
While performance is paramount, comfort in the cockpit is equally crucial, considering drivers spend extensive hours navigating the rugged landscape. The Raptor T1+ is equipped with a built-in air conditioning system, an essential feature when racing through scorching deserts. Moreover, the interior has been meticulously crafted with insights from two-time Dakar champion Nani Roma, ensuring it meets the unique needs of rally drivers.
Ergonomics play a significant role, with adjustable seats, pedals, and steering systems tailored to each driver’s preferences. Ford has gone a step further by utilizing 3D scanning technology of Roma himself to guide the design process. This personalized approach underscores Ford’s commitment to providing a vehicle that is not only high-performance but also comfortable for the long-haul demands of the Dakar Rally.
The Ford Raptor T1+ represents a convergence of cutting-edge technology, stellar engineering, and driver-centric design. As it prepares to enter the challenge of the Dakar Rally, it is clear that Ford is positioned not only to participate but to potentially dominate in one of the harshest tests of endurance on the planet. With a powerful engine, an advanced suspension system, and a commitment to both driver comfort and safety, the T1+ is a testament to Ford’s prowess in rally racing. Each strategic feature, from aerodynamics to adjustable cockpit elements, underscores the hours of labor and design that have gone into creating a formidable competitor for this iconic rally.