The Ford Raptor T1+ is a fierce-looking vehicle specifically designed to participate in the Dakar Rally. This beast features a carbon-fiber body adorned with a Red Bull-themed livery, a sturdy steel spaceframe, and massive 37-inch tires attached to a long-travel suspension system. The new Raptor Dakar racer was introduced last year when Ford teamed up with M-Sport to create a Ranger-based race truck. While Ford’s lineup of production-spec Raptor models is impressive, the Raptor T1+ takes things to a whole new level of awesomeness.
The Ford Raptor T1+ boasts an advanced suspension system with a double-wishbone design both in the front and back, adjustable Fox external-bypass dampers, and up to 13.8 inches of travel. It rolls on rugged 37-inch off-road tires mounted on eye-catching 17-inch wheels in an orange hue. With 15.7 inches of ground clearance, the T1+ surpasses the Ford Bronco Raptor by over two inches. This high-riding, V-8-powered rally racer is not meant for everyday driving but rather for the intense competition of the Dakar Rally.
Constructed around a steel spaceframe, the T1+ features body panels made of lightweight carbon fiber. Adorned with a striking Red Bull-themed livery, this vehicle showcases a front skid plate with a “Raptor” cutout and bold “FORD” lettering on the grille flanked by distinctive C-shaped lighting elements. The side-mounted spare tires visible through the bodywork add to the rugged aesthetic of the T1+.
Under the hood, a Coyote-based 5.0-liter V-8 engine serves as the powerhouse of this rally-ready Raptor. Equipped with a dry-sump oil system and a specially designed exhaust for racing conditions, the T1+ delivers impressive performance. Although Ford has not disclosed the exact horsepower figure, the vehicle’s debut run at the Goodwood hill-climb event showcased its ample power and aggressive sound.
The Raptor T1+ is set to compete in the upcoming Dakar Rally with seasoned drivers Carlos Sainz Sr. and Nani Roma behind the wheel. Ford plans to announce two additional drivers at a later date for the 2025 Dakar Rally scheduled for January 4–17. With its formidable presence and performance capabilities, the Ford Raptor T1+ is poised to make a significant impact in the world of off-road racing.
Eric Stafford, a dedicated automotive journalist with a lifelong passion for cars, has been sharing his expertise and insights with Car and Driver since 2016. His journey from aspiring millionaire car collector to successful automotive journalist reflects his unwavering dedication to the world of automobiles. From writing news articles to reviewing the latest vehicles, Eric’s love for cars shines through in his work. His eclectic garage, housing a 2010 Acura RDX, a ’97 Chevy Camaro Z/28 with a manual transmission, and a ’90 Honda CRX Si, is a testament to his deep-rooted passion for all things automotive.