2017 Ford F-150 Raptor introduced – 324kW/588Nm

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor front quarter

Besides the spectacular Ford GT supercar, Ford has also introduced the highly anticipated 2017 F-150 Raptor at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

While the F-150 Raptor might look familiar, Ford said it has reengineered every part of the pick-up truck to make it the toughest, smartest and most capable off-roader. It is also claimed to be the most efficient ever.

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor front

“When we created the first Raptor, we set out to prove vehicle performance isn’t just measured on the street or at the track – off-road can be even more fun,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development.

“The original Raptor, plus enhancements on the all-new F-150 set the bar for us to make the all-new Raptor better in every way.”

The Raptor’s purpose-built frame is the strongest in the F-150 lineup, thanks to high-strength, military-grade, aluminium alloy that also helps shave more than 500 pounds (227kg) from the truck’s weight.

 

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor side

The Raptor is 6 inches (152mm) wider than the standard F-150 and boasts its first-ever dual exhaust and new 17-inch wheels shod with BF Goodrich All-Terrain KO2 tyres specifically designed for off-road performance.

Powering Ford’s most successful pick-up truck is the company’s second-generation 3.5-litre EcoBoost engine that produces 441hp (324kW) and 434 lb-ft (588Nm) of torque – more powerful than the current 6.2-litre V8.

It is married to an all-new 10-speed transmission that promises improved efficiency. An all-new four-wheel-drive, torque-on-demand transfer case, with an advanced, easier-to-use version of off-road mode driver-assist technology, further improves Raptor’s trail performance.

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor rear quarter-1

A new off-road drive mode technology called the Terrain Management System enables the driver to select modes to optimise driving dynamics to environmental conditions – from snow to mud, sand and more.

Ford says the system changes the calibration of the powertrain, driveline, traction control system, anti-lock brakes and AdvanceTrac stability control system for optimal performance for the chosen conditions. A Torsen front differential is available to increase off-road capability further.

The Ford F-150 Raptor will hit the market in the 3rd quarter of 2016 in the USA.

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