Ford today confirmed the launch of the new Ranger Raptor – the most radical and high-performance version of the best-selling pick-up in Europe – registering the debut of the new model at Gamescom, one of the most important video game events in the world.
Developed by Ford Performance, the first-ever Ford Ranger Raptor will be available to European customers in mid-2019. The inspiration of the “American sister” Ford F-150 Raptor is evident.
Engine and chassis
Driven by a Bi-turbo version of the Ford EcoBlue 2.0 Diesel engine, this engine in the Ford Ranger Raptor develops 213 hp and 500 Nm of torque, coupled with a new 10-speed automatic gearbox built in high-strength steel, aluminum alloys and composite materials. to optimize durability and weight.
In dynamic terms, the Ford Ranger Raptor received a chassis developed by Ford Performance fully optimized for off-road driving at… fast paced.
Leo Roeks, Director, Ford Performance EuropeWe can forget about everything we thought we knew about pick-ups. Our new Ranger Raptor belongs to a different breed: it is a thoroughbred capable of overcoming the desert at race pace, and a radical off-road vehicle for an active lifestyle, in the toughest and most demanding working conditions.
Ranger Raptor's unique new chassis features reinforced construction, using high-strength lightweight steel alloys to withstand the sacrifices posed by low-end off-road riding.
In addition to the chassis, Raptor's suspension is specially designed to tackle the toughest terrain at high speed, always maintaining total control and comfort. FOX Racing shocks with Position Sensitive Damping provide greater damping forces in extreme off-road driving situations and, where necessary, less firm damping for greater comfort.
These FOX Racing shock absorbers are complemented by aluminum suspension arms (triangles). At the rear we have a spring/damper assembly that also includes Watt connections that substantially mitigate the lateral oscillations of the axle in its movement.
Did you know that...
Ford engineers extensively tested the 2.0-litre EcoBlue Bi-turbo engine and 10-speed automatic transmission to prove its strength and durability in even the worst conditions. The tests included keeping the turbos running continuously for 200 hours until they reached the glow point.
Braking is carried out by ventilated discs at the front (332 mm diameter x 32 mm thick) with double piston calipers, and ventilated discs at the rear (332 mm by 24 mm).
BF Goodrich 285/70 R17 all-terrain tires were developed specifically for Ranger Raptor. With 838 mm in diameter and 285 mm in width, they have reinforced walls, prepared for the most hostile environments, as well as an aggressive tread and typically off-road that provides the best grip in wet, mud, sand and snow.
"Shameless" appearance
The Ford Ranger Raptor is not ashamed to show the muscle it has gained. Presenting itself in Ford Performance Blue, with contrasts in Dyno Grey, it distinguishes itself from the other Ford Rangers by its new and expressive grille, inspired by the world's first series-produced high-performance pick-up: the Ford F-150 Raptor.
Continuing through the body, the flared, composite front mudguards are not only eye-catching and designed to withstand and minimize damage caused by off-road use, as well as allowing for more suspension travel and larger tyres.
The side steps are specifically designed to prevent stones from hitting the rear of the pick-up, and have points to drain sand, mud and snow.
The new Ford Ranger Raptor hits the market as early as 2019.
