Dakar Rally-Inspired Raptor Incoming?
Ford is rumored to be working on a Dakar Rally-derived Raptor, aiming to boost its off-road credibility [https://carmag.co.za/news/dakar-rally-derived-ford-raptor-in-the-works]. There's also talk of a potential Raptor-inspired Mustang variant [https://carmag.co.za/news/dakar-rally-derived-ford-raptor-in-the-works].
Ford CEO Jim Farley has hinted at a road-legal version of the Raptor T1+ Dakar rally car, suggesting it "should be a product we sell". This stems from Ford's view of motorsports as integral to engineering, not just marketing. The T1+ boasts full rally marathon specs: a steel spaceframe, carbon panels, a 5.0-liter V8 derived from the Mustang GT, Fox suspension with significant travel, and impressive ground clearance. Farley envisions blurring the lines between supercars and off-roaders. He imagines a digitally-enabled "super vehicle" equally capable on and off-road, potentially with a partially electric powertrain and around 1,000 horsepower. Such a vehicle could establish Ford as the "Porsche of off-road," breaking conventional rules. The Raptor T1+ features a carbon-fiber body, Red Bull-themed livery, and 37-inch off-road tires. It has a double-wishbone suspension with adjustable Fox dampers allowing up to 13.8 inches of travel. Power comes from a Coyote-based 5.0-liter V8 engine.
