Ford's special development team, the SVT, intends to race its ultimate Raptor R pickup in the 2009 "Best in the Desert" endurance race series. Based on the regular versions, the Raptor is a true off-road monster.

During the competition, two truck racing veterans and former "Rough Riders," winners of countless titles, will take the wheel: Rob MacCachren and Steve Olliges. In addition to participating in the series, both drivers will continue the development of the Raptor R to push back the limits of the components.


Although the standard versions of the 2010 Raptor are powered by V8 engines featuring 5,4 litres, 320 hp and 390 ft-lb of torque and 6,2 litres, 400 hp and 400 ft-lb of torque respectively, the "R" competition model benefits from a modified 500-hp, 6.2-litre mill.

Despite the considerable number of modifications, many of them will be carried into production, as the race is not only a prestigious event but also a testing ground for the endurance of the mechanical components. The automatic six-speed transmission will make its way into the standard models, as well as the 35-inch tires.

The basic production version equipped with a 5.4-litre engine will be available this summer, while the 6.2-litre model is still being tested, during the "Best in the Desert" series among others.


Photo Credit : Ford