Ford’s fleet of production-spec Raptor models are all pretty. cool, but the new Raptor T1+ is easily the most badass. It was built to compete in the Dakar Rally, with the T1’s making its debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The Ford Raptor T1+ has a sophisticated suspension that features a double-wishbone design in the front and the back, adjustable Fox external-bypass dampers, and up to 13.8 inches of travel. It rides on chunky 37-inch off-road tires that are mounted on an orangish set of 17-inch wheels. Ford says the T1+ has 15.7 inches of ground clearances, which is over two inches more than the Ford Bronco Raptor.
The T1+ is also built around a steel spaceframe, and its body panels are made of carbon fiber. Ford’s Dakar racer is also decorated with a Red Bull-themed livery, as the two company’s have formed a partnership that dates back to last year when Ford announced its return to Formula 1. Other standout visual elements found on the T1+ include a front skid plate with “Raptor” cutout and distinctive “FORD” lettering on the grille between two C-shaped lighting elements.
A Coyote-based 5.0-liter V-8 acts as the heart of the rally-bred Raptor, which has a dry-sump oil system and an exhaust designed for the abuse that comes with racing. While Ford doesn’t explicitly say how much horsepower it makes, the T1’s inaugural run at the Goodwood hill-climb event proved its plenty powerful and sounds notably nasty.
The Raptor T1+ will be raced by Carlos Sainz Sr. and Nani Roma this August; Ford says two more drivers will be announced at a later date. The next Dakar Rally is scheduled for January 4–17, 2025.
