SCORE Journal - The Official Publication of SCORE Off-Road Racing
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/485293
Perhaps the main reason why SCORE fans and racers have an appreciation for the Ford F-150 Raptor, is because it was one of the first vehicles built specifically for desert-style off-road performance. This race-ready truck was built with technologies common on most off-road race trucks, and with an aggressive appearance to match, it’s no wonder truck owners have been willing to pay a premium to own one. So when the new 2017 model was announced, SCORE fans wanted to know more about the vehicle’s improvements and capabilities. “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.” Ford’s performance heritage in off-road racing strongly influenced the exterior design on the new model. It features the strongest purpose-built frame in the F-150 lineup, with more high-strength steel than the previous generation. Taking cues from the world’s fastest and most powerful off-road racing Unlimited Trophy Trucks, the Raptor’s exterior is forged from high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy that helps shave more than 500 pounds of unnecessary weight. In addition, off-road stability was improved by increasing the track width six inches wider than the standard F-150. Along with greater stability while moving fast over rugged terrain, the 2017 Ford Raptor will also have better traction. Equipped with new 17-inch wheels and Baja proven next-generation BFG All-Terrain K02 tires designed specifically for off-road performance, the