Ford Unveils High-Performance Truck for the 2025 Dakar Rally

Photo Source: Ford

Snapshot

• Ford revealed the Raptor T1+ rally truck at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed.
• Built-in partnership with United Kingdom-based rally specialist M-Sport and Red Bull, it boasts 37-inch tires, a space frame chassis, and a 5.0-liter Coyote V-8 engine.
• The truck makes its competition premiere at Baja Hungary in August and will compete in the Dakar Rally in January with famed Carlos Sainz Sr. at the wheel.

Is There a Ford in the Dakar Rally?

Ford has set its sights on dominating the punishing Dakar Rally, and it has the ideal tool for the job. Meet the new Raptor T1+, a purpose-built race truck that the Blue Oval describes as “the pinnacle of Ford Performance Raptor design and capability.” Co-developed with M-Sport, the truck officially debuted at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on July 12, 2024. 

Motivated by a Coyote-based V-8 engine, the T1+ will have enough brute force to overcome even the most grueling terrain. As of this writing, the manufacturer has not revealed outputs but claims the motor has a special dry-sump oil system and a tuned exhaust “designed for the challenges of Dakar.”

Design Cues and Engine Specifications

Even though it says Ford, and the highly regarded Coyote V-8 powers it, the T1+ looks unlike anything in the Blue Oval’s global lineup. Granted, the C-shaped daytime running lights resemble those of the Ranger Raptor, and it possesses the unique grille with Ford lettering, but there is no denying that the T1+ is a custom-made machine designed to reign over the Dakar. 

For example, the purpose-built off-roader consists of lightweight carbon fiber body panels and a T45 steel space frame, lending it an original structure. Measuring 90.5 inches wide, the race truck also exhibits a striking stance that will benefit it, as the broad track will offer exceptional support in off-road situations. Additionally, the approach angle is over 70 degrees, while the ground clearance is 15.7 inches – 2.6 inches more than even the F-150 Raptor R.

“Taking on such a demanding race like Dakar is a daunting task for all of us at Ford Performance, but we have never shirked a challenge. To embrace this challenge, we have partnered with the best in the world with M-Sport and Red Bull and I think it shows how seriously we are taking this project. The Ford Raptor T1+ is a stake in the ground for our global off-road vision – we want to take on the best and prove ourselves in the toughest places on earth.”

–Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports

Advanced Suspension and Going Behind the Wheel

The suspension system is arguably the most significant component of this vehicle. The T1+ is outfitted with front and rear independent double-wishbone suspension. To that end, the automaker’s long-time collaborator Fox also cooperated, with coilover three-way adjustable and four-way adjustable external bypass reservoirs on each wheel coming from the experts. 

Dynamic and sturdy, the T1+ should be able to weather any hurdle it encounters. Its steadfastness should be even more evident by the drivers at the wheel. In other words, Ford’s new racing truck will be driven by four teams of drivers and navigators, including Carlos Sainz Sr. and Nani Roma. The brand will announce further teams later in the year (2024).

Join Us on the Road to Dakar at NYE Ford!

Before taking on the Dakar in January 2025, the T1+ will officially be introduced at the 2024 Baja Hungary on August 8-10. Afterward, it will charge through the dust at the 2024 Rallye du Maroc on October 4-11. All signs point to a winning contender, so please see what else Ford has to offer by viewing our new vehicle specials. If you need assistance purchasing a new automobile, do not hesitate to ask for financial help.