The Dakar Rally stands unparalleled as one of the most demanding challenges in motorsport, testing the limits of endurance for both vehicles and their drivers. This year, Ford has raised the stakes with its latest unveiling: the Ford Raptor T1+. Crafted in collaboration with long-standing partner M-Sport, this vehicle showcases cutting-edge design and engineering aimed squarely at conquering the harsh terrains of the Dakar Rally.
A Ceaseless Pursuit of Power
At the heart of the Ford Raptor T1+ is the formidable Coyote V8 engine. This powerhouse boasts an impressive output of 268kW, translating to approximately 360bhp. However, this figure may fluctuate as it adheres to the FIA’s new Torque Meter regulations, showcasing how technological regulations continue to evolve in motorsport. Coupled with a Sadev six-speed sequential gearbox, this configuration allows for rapid gear shifts, ensuring that the Raptor maintains optimal power distribution as it jets over challenging landscapes. An advanced limited-slip central differential provides the necessary torque management, adapting seamlessly to shifting conditions—whether on steep inclines or tricky turns.
Suspension technology in off-road racing is crucial, and Ford has placed significant emphasis on innovation in this arena. The Raptor features an independent front and rear suspension system, which is designed to enhance both durability and performance under the extreme conditions of the Dakar Rally. With a weight of just 30 kilograms per wheel, the vehicle employs substantial 37-inch tires, ensuring both traction and stability.
To absorb the rigors of this grueling race, the Ford Raptor T1+ employs a sophisticated suspension setup that includes eight FOX shock absorbers, each meticulously engineered to offer a smooth ride while enduring significant impacts. The vehicle is equipped with four coilovers and four external bypass shock absorbers, paired with eight Eibach springs that work in concert to deliver a remarkable 350mm of wheel travel. This design not only manages high-speed bumps effectively but also ensures that drivers enjoy a cushioned ride under the relentless pressure of Dakar’s diverse terrains.
Weight is an ever-constant adversary in rally racing, and the Raptor is no exception, tipping the scales at 2,010 kg. As a response, Ford has meticulously honed the vehicle’s aerodynamics, seeking performance advantages akin to those seen in Formula 1 racing. Utilizing both computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and traditional wind tunnel testing, Ford has crafted an aerodynamic profile that improves straight-line speed and cornering capabilities. Thus, the Raptor T1+ is not just about brute force, but about harnessing that force effectively against wind resistance.
The Human Element: Comfort and Customization
While performance is a critical factor, comfort is equally paramount in the context of the Dakar Rally, where drivers often spend hours navigating some of the world’s most unforgiving terrains. To that end, the Raptor is equipped with an integrated air conditioning system to provide relief from the intense desert heat. Furthermore, the vehicle’s cockpit, designed with input from experienced Dakar winner Nani Roma, prioritizes customization. The adjustable design of seats, pedals, and steering ensures that drivers can tailor their setups for optimum comfort and control, aided by advanced technology such as 3D scanning that informed the cockpit design using Roma’s specifications.
The Ford Raptor T1+ emerges as a testament to Ford’s commitment to off-road racing and innovation, especially within the rigorous framework of the Dakar Rally. Featuring an impressive roster of drivers including legends like Carlos Sainz Sr. and promising talents like Mitch Guthrie Jr., expectations are high for the performance of the Raptor. The combination of advanced engineering, focus on driver comfort, and a fierce competitive spirit positions the Raptor T1+ as a frontrunner in this year’s Dakar Rally. Ford has demonstrated that it is not merely participating in the race but is poised to make a significant statement. With a blend of technology, performance, and human-centric design, the Raptor may just redefine what it means to excel in one of the most challenging motorsport events on the planet.