The Dakar Rally is widely recognized as one of the toughest motorsport events in the world, demanding the ultimate in engineering, endurance, and driver skill. In the 2025 edition of the rally, Ford has introduced its latest challenger, the Ford Raptor T1+, a prototype that redefines performance and durability for the off-road landscape.
Designed for Dakar
The Ford Raptor T1+ is more than just a race car; it’s a testament to advanced automotive engineering. Developed in collaboration with M-Sport, this off-road beast combines raw power with precise handling, making it a serious contender in the world of rally raid racing.
Powerhouse Performance
At the heart of the Raptor T1+ lies a 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine delivering approximately 360 horsepower. This powerhouse is paired with a Sadev six-speed sequential gearbox, ensuring seamless power delivery in even the harshest conditions. Equipped with front, center, and rear limited-slip differentials, the drivetrain offers exceptional control and adaptability for varied terrains.
Advanced Suspension
Navigating the grueling dunes and rocky terrains of Dakar requires more than just speed—it demands resilience. The Raptor T1+ features an independent double-wishbone suspension with Fox shock absorbers, providing an impressive 350 mm of wheel travel. This state-of-the-art suspension system guarantees stability and comfort, even at high speeds.
Robust Braking and Durability
Braking performance is critical in the unpredictable conditions of rally racing. The Raptor T1+ is equipped with 355 mm Alcon ventilated discs and six-piston monobloc calipers, delivering reliable stopping power when it matters most. Its T45 steel spaceframe chassis and carbon fiber body panels ensure a perfect balance of strength and weight efficiency.
Built for Extreme Conditions
With a minimum weight of 2,010 kg, the Raptor T1+ adheres to strict Dakar regulations while maximizing performance. The prototype boasts an impressive ground clearance of 400 mm and houses a massive 520-liter fuel tank, ensuring it can tackle the most extended stages without compromise.
The vehicle’s 37-inch BFGoodrich KDR3 tires and 17-inch aluminum wheels offer unparalleled traction and durability, allowing it to conquer everything from loose sand to jagged rocks with ease.
A Driver-Centric Design
Designed with input from rally legends like Nani Roma, the Raptor T1+ focuses on driver comfort and efficiency. The interior features adjustable seats, pedals, and steering to suit diverse driver needs, while an integrated air conditioning system keeps the cabin cool even in extreme desert heat.
Proven Track Record
Before its Dakar debut, the Ford Raptor T1+ has already proven its mettle in rigorous tests, covering over 10,000 kilometers in harsh conditions. It has secured victories in prestigious events such as the Rallye du Maroc and Baja Hungary, showcasing its reliability and potential to dominate the 2025 Dakar Rally.
Engine and Performance:
- Engine: The Raptor T1+ is powered by a 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine, delivering approximately 360 horsepower (268 kW). This engine features a unique dry-sump oil system and a tuned exhaust tailored for the rigors of rally raid competitions.
- Transmission and Drivetrain:
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- Gearbox: Equipped with a Sadev six-speed sequential gearbox.
- Differentials: Features front, center, and rear limited-slip differentials with mechanical locks, allowing adjustments to suit various terrains.
- Suspension and Handling:
- Suspension: Utilizes independent double-wishbone suspension both front and rear, incorporating Fox shock absorbers—four coilovers and four external bypasses—providing up to 350 mm of wheel travel. This setup ensures optimal handling and durability across extreme conditions.
- Braking System:
- Brakes: Fitted with 355 mm Alcon ventilated discs at both front and rear, paired with six-piston monobloc calipers, delivering robust stopping power essential for high-speed desert navigation.
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The Ford Raptor T1+ is Ford’s latest high-performance off-road vehicle, engineered specifically for the 2025 Dakar Rally. Developed in collaboration with M-Sport, this vehicle combines advanced engineering with the rugged durability required for one of the world’s most challenging motorsport events.
Engine and Performance:
- Engine: The Raptor T1+ is powered by a 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine, delivering approximately 360 horsepower (268 kW). This engine features a unique dry-sump oil system and a tuned exhaust tailored for the rigors of rally raid competitions.
Transmission and Drivetrain:
- Gearbox: Equipped with a Sadev six-speed sequential gearbox.
- Differentials: Features front, center, and rear limited-slip differentials with mechanical locks, allowing adjustments to suit various terrains.
Suspension and Handling:
- Suspension: Utilizes independent double-wishbone suspension both front and rear, incorporating Fox shock absorbers—four coilovers and four external bypasses—providing up to 350 mm of wheel travel. This setup ensures optimal handling and durability across extreme conditions.
Braking System:
- Brakes: Fitted with 355 mm Alcon ventilated discs at both front and rear, paired with six-piston monobloc calipers, delivering robust stopping power essential for high-speed desert navigation.
Dimensions and Weight:
- Length: Approximately 4,855 mm.
- Width: Up to 2,300 mm.
- Wheelbase: 3,000 mm.
- Ground Clearance: Around 400 mm, facilitating navigation over challenging terrains.
- Weight: Minimum weight of 2,010 kg, adhering to Dakar Rally regulations.
Body and Chassis:
- Construction: Built on a T45 steel spaceframe chassis with carbon fiber body panels, combining strength with weight efficiency.
Fuel Capacity:
- Fuel Tank: Houses a 520-liter fuel tank positioned behind the safety cell, ensuring extended range between refueling stops during long stages.
Tires and Wheels:
- Tires: Equipped with 37-inch BFGoodrich KDR3 tires (37×12.50-17), designed to provide optimal traction and durability in diverse off-road conditions.
- Wheels: Mounted on 17-inch aluminum wheels, balancing strength and weight.
Additional Features:
- Cooling System: Includes an integrated air conditioning system to maintain driver and co-driver comfort in the extreme heat of desert environments.
- Interior Design: The cabin is ergonomically designed with input from experienced drivers like Nani Roma, featuring adjustable seats, pedals, and steering to accommodate various driver preferences.
A New Contender Emerges
The Ford Raptor T1+ is not just an entry into the Dakar Rally; it’s a bold statement from Ford Performance and M-Sport about their commitment to off-road motorsport. With its cutting-edge technology, rigorous testing, and proven performance, the Raptor T1+ is poised to set new standards in rally raid racing.
Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking machine as it takes on the unforgiving terrain of Dakar 2025.
