Jim Farley, CEO of Ford Motor Company, has unveiled that his team is actively considering a standalone Raptor-branded off-road supercar. Ford aims to capitalize on the Raptor brand's popularity and their commitment to "own off-road" terrains, demonstrated by their participation in the Dakar Rally with the Raptor T1+ securing a podium finish.
- Ford's Vision: Ford is exploring the idea of not just a variant but a fully independent off-road supercar.
- Key Insights: Farley noted that the attraction of vehicles like the Ranger Raptor lies not just in their fun nature but in their compliant damping. This feature provides a unique off-road experience, different from performance cars like the Porsche 911 GT2 RS.
Mark Rushbrook, Ford Performance's global director, emphasized the division's mission to infuse the essence of motorsport into consumer vehicles. While they have enjoyed success with models like the F-150, Bronco, and Ranger Raptor, Ford believes there is room for growth.
- Raptor T1+: This vehicle represents the pinnacle of Raptor innovation, gathering significant insights from both competition and customer feedback.
Picture a road-ready Ford Trophy Truck with 1,000 horsepower, advanced suspension, and a design built to handle jumps and skids effortlessly. In today's crowded supercar market, such a vehicle could stand out as a thrilling, performance-focused alternative that isn't daunted by speed bumps.
Ford's exploration of a standalone Raptor off-road supercar could introduce a new category of performance vehicles. With lessons learned from the Raptor T1+ and a commitment to innovation within the off-road sector, Ford aims to deliver an exhilarating driving experience that redefines the boundaries of conventional supercars. Stay tuned for more updates from this exciting venture.
