Ford Planning a 750kW Hybrid Off-Road Supercar, Dubbed the Raptor
Ford is reportedly working on a hardcore off-road supercar, set to sit at the top of its Raptor line-up. This potential vehicle, if produced, is expected to be a game-changer in the off-road racing scene, aiming to outdo the Porsche 911 Dakar and Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato.
According to Ford's CEO, Jim Farley, the off-road supercar is designed to be capable of doing a full-on race, with a power output of 1000hp. It's also expected to have a digital-enabled platform, allowing for adjustable suspension travel, damping, and ride height.
The off-road supercar is likely to follow a similar limited-production style, much like the recently created high-performance Mustang GTD, which was made to rival the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. Only a limited number of the Mustang GTD are produced, with each priced from US$325,000 (NZ$556,000).
If produced, the off-road supercar will not be a pickup truck but rather a unique vehicle in Ford's line-up. It could potentially sit above the Bronco Raptor, Ranger Raptor, and F-150 Raptor R.
Farley's vision for this off-road supercar extends beyond the Baja 500 course. He wants the vehicle to be capable of competing in the gruelling Dakar Rally, a multi-day, off-road race that takes competitors across some of the world's most challenging terrains.
Ford's CEO sees this off-road supercar as a vehicle that allows people to experience the joy of driving, regardless of the conditions. He believes it will be a testament to Ford's commitment to innovation and performance.
Rumours suggest that Ford is considering a Mustang as a base for its potential off-road supercar. However, details about the vehicle's design and specifications are still scarce. One thing is certain, though: if produced, this off-road supercar is expected to be different from the Porsche 911 Dakar and Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato.
Meanwhile, Ford's return to Formula 1 is planned for 2026, in partnership with Red Bull Racing. While the off-road supercar and Formula 1 racing may seem unrelated, Ford's CEO, Jim Farley, has made it clear that he wants the off-road supercar to win the Dakar Rally, demonstrating the company's ambition in the off-road racing world.
As production details about the off-road supercar emerge, anticipation among racing enthusiasts continues to grow. With Ford's commitment to performance and innovation, it's safe to say that this off-road supercar, if produced, will undoubtedly shake up the off-road racing scene.
(Quote from Jack Quick, a production editor)
