Ford Performance dan RTR Vehicles telah memperkenalkan trak elektrik yang berkuasa yang dipanggil F-150 Lightning Switchgear. Ia direka untuk prestasi di atas dan luar jalan serta kelihatan berbeza dengan badan kustom dan reka bentuk yang canggih.
Trak elektrik ini adalah sebahagian daripada program Demonstrator Ford, di mana mereka mempamerkan apa yang boleh dilakukan oleh kenderaan elektrik. Ia seperti medan ujian untuk jurutera mempelajari lebih lanjut tentang membuat kenderaan elektrik menjadi lebih baik.
F-150 Lightning Switchgear dibuat untuk prestasi off-road yang tegang. Ia lebih lebar, jadi lebih stabil, dan boleh mengendalikan medan yang sukar. Sistem suspensi, yang membantu mengatasi ketidakselesaan dan lonjakan, menggunakan penyerap hentakan khas dan mempunyai bahagian khas untuk membuatnya berfungsi dengan baik.
Trak ini mempunyai badan yang kuat daripada bahan komposit karbon, menjadikannya kuat tetapi tidak terlalu berat. Ia juga dilengkapi dengan tayar 37 inci untuk cengkaman yang baik dan rak khas dengan tayar simpanan.
Trak elektrik ini akan dipamerkan di acara off-road di California, di mana Ford ingin menunjukkan betapa baiknya ia mengendalikan laluan yang kasar. Ini adalah cara baru untuk memikirkan tentang trak elektrik, dan Ford berharap F-150 Lightning Switchgear akan menetapkan piawai baru untuk apa yang boleh dilakukan trak elektrik.
In a groundbreaking move, Ford Performance has unleashed the F-150 Lightning Switchgear, a high-performance on- and off-road demonstrator that redefines the capabilities of America’s best-selling electric truck. Crafted in partnership with RTR Vehicles, this cutting-edge vehicle draws inspiration from the iconic F-150 RTR Ultimate Fun-Haver project of 2016, featuring custom exterior carbon bodywork adorned with a striking Ford Performance 2024 livery.
The Switchgear not only pushes the boundaries of electric trucks but also serves as the latest addition to Ford Performance’s Demonstrator program. This program, featuring notable predecessors like SuperVan 4.0, Mustang Mach-E 1400, Mustang CobraJet 1400, and the F-100 Eluminator, showcases the vast potential of electric vehicles, serving as a dynamic testing ground for engineers to rapidly advance their knowledge for future electric vehicle development.
Designed as a true off-road powerhouse, the F-150 Lightning Switchgear boasts a significant increase in track width for enhanced off-road stability. Improved ground clearance and suspension travel ensure this electric marvel conquers terrains never before explored by its counterparts.
To tackle rugged landscapes, the Switchgear’s suspension system employs FOX 3-inch diameter internal bypass shock absorbers, complemented by unique front and rear bumpers to optimise approach and departure angles. The front sports custom independent double-wishbone suspension, while the rear features multilink independent suspension with coil-over shocks, stabiliser bar, and custom control arms.
Dressed in carbon composite front fenders, bed sides, and rear bumper cover, the Switchgear is fortified with steel fabricated rock rails and a front skid plate to tackle the toughest off-road challenges. Limit straps are strategically incorporated to manage suspension and wheel travel effectively.
Adorning NITTO Ridge Grappler 37×12.5R18 tires and equipped with a distinctive chase rack featuring two spare wheels/tires, the F-150 Lightning Switchgear is ready to make its public debut at the King of the Hammers off-road racing event starting January 25 in Johnson Valley, California. Brace yourselves as Ford Performance electrifies the off-road experience, setting a new standard for electric trucks with the awe-inspiring F-150 Lightning Switchgear.
The all-new enhanced Ford SuperVan 4.2 is Ford Performance’s thrilling entry for the 101st running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo.
The event will highlight the innovative design, cutting-edge technologies, and distinctive features of the refined all-electric demonstrator that enhance its performance for the demanding hill climb.
Ford automobiles have constantly left their imprint on the renowned Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, with a history that dates back to the first race, which was completed in a Ford Model T, in 1916.
Ford has announced its return to Formula 1 after 22 years away from the sport. Despite having been absent from F1 since 2004, Ford remains the third most successful engine manufacturer in F1 history with 10 Constructors’ championships and 13 Drivers’ championships. Between 1967 and 2004, the carmaker provided engines to no less than 67 teams.
It was present in F1 up to 2004, with its last entry being with the Jaguar team (acquired from former F1 driver Jackie Stewart) as the British carmaker was then owned by Ford. The extremely high (and rising) cost of participating in F1 was given as the reason Ford withdrew and sold its team to Red Bull (the energy drinks company) for US$1 at the end of the 2004 season.
Drawing the carmaker back to the sport it dominated in the late 1960s and 1970s is the increasing interest in key markets around the world, including the USA. Furthermore, the FIA and F1 have a commitment to sustainability with increased use of electric power as well as sustainable fuels.
Production of the Ford GT is planned to end this month, and 1,350 units will have been built since the model was launched in 2016. One of the final models is the GT Mk IV which has the highest levels of performance, handling and advanced technology as it is a track-only car. Developed by Ford Performance and Multimatic, it is a radically advanced supercar with its unique bodywork, powertrain and suspension.
There will be only 67 units available, the number honouring the original 1967 GT Mk IV racing car which won the Le Mans 24-Hour race.
Remember the news about a new Ford Ranger Raptor being entered in the SCORE-International Baja 1000? Run in California, it’s one of the world’s toughest off-road races and just making it to the end in one piece is an achievement.
The Ranger Raptor – prepared in Australia for desert racing but still quite standard and even road-legal, finished its class in first place. And it was still in such good condition that the team decided to drive it back to its home base. In 2017, a stock F-150 Raptor also did the same thing.
Even as the Ford+ Plan has the carmaker putting in bigger investments in electric vehicles, attention has not diminished for vehicles with combustion engines. Particularly with pick-up trucks, which Ford is a leader in, there is continued development with sustainable clean energy solutions being explored.
At the SCORE International Baja 1000 – one of the toughest off-road races in the world – Ford Performance will enter a new Ranger Raptor running on a low-carbon biofuel, demonstrating the potential of these fuels in the most demanding environments.
One of the pleasures that driving enthusiasts enjoy is the ‘music’ from the exhaust of their cars. It can convey emotion and form part of the car’s character, especially with sportscars. Some manufacturers have their engineers spend a lot of time and effort to ensure that the car has a sound unique enough to become an aural signature that signifies the presence of the car near or far.
Generally, the growls or roars have been associated with sportscars but now, Ford is also bringing a new feature to truck owners which will allow them to customise the exhaust sound in various ways. It’s made possible by the new active valve twin exhaust system fitted to the 3-litre twin-turbo V6 engine of the latest Ranger Raptor.
The next-generation Ford Ranger has arrived in Malaysia and also joining the range before the end of the year will be the new Ranger Raptor. Developed by Ford Performance, the Ranger Raptor has proven to be the ultimate Ranger which blends raw power with mechanical and technical precision to create the most advanced Ranger ever.
The big news for performance fans is the introduction of a new twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 producing up to 392 ps at 5,650rpm and 583 Nm at 3,500rpm tuned by Ford Performance. However, the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine will also be available in markets where a smaller displacement is more practical. Malaysia would be one of them.
The 2-litre Bi-turbo engine with high-pressure Commonrail Direct Injection is already a familiar powerplant as it is used in the latest Ranger Wildtrak. With two turbochargers, the engine (for the Raptor) pushes out 213 ps, with a massive 500 NM of torque.
All that power and torque flows through Ford’s own 10-speed automatic transmission which has been specially calibrated to work perfectly with the turbocharged engine. Not only is power delivery smooth but gear changes are also quick and precise with advanced programming to ensure the right gear for every situation.
With an electronically-controlled active exhaust system that amplifies the engine note in 4 selectable drive modes (Quiet, Normal, Sport and Baja), the Raptor’s vocal character ranges from mild to wild. Drivers can choose their preferred engine sound by pressing a button on the steering wheel or by selecting a drive mode.
While there are similarities, the new Ranger Raptor has a unique chassis when compared to latest Ranger. A series of unique mounts and reinforcements, for elements including the C-pillar, load box and spare wheel, as well as unique frames for the jounce bumper, shock tower and rear shock bracket all combine to give the vehicle much more capability in extreme conditions.
The suspension is completely redesigned, with all-new tough, lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms, long travel front and rear suspension and refined Watt’s link rear end designed to deliver more control across rough terrain at high speed.
The new suspension upgrades in the Ranger Raptor make the most of the new FOX Live Valve dampers. The suspension adapts in real time to enable exceptional on-road body control while absorbing corrugations and bigger ruts off-road with ease ensuring maximum control and performance.
Soaking up those humps and bumps are next-generation FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shock absorbers with cutting-edge control technology offering position-sensitive damping capability. These shock absorbers are the most sophisticated ever on Ranger Raptor and are filled with Teflon-infused oil that reduces friction by around 50% compared to those on the previous Raptor.
While the hardware is FOX, the tuning and development work was carried out by Ford Performance using a mixture of computer-aided engineering and real-world testing. Everything from adjusting the spring rates to setting the ride height, valve tuning and honing the ride zones was performed to create the perfect balance between comfort, control, stability and traction on-road and off-road.
In addition to working with the drive modes, the system works in the background to prepare the Ranger Raptor for different conditions. As the shocks compress, different zones within the bypass system give exactly the amount of support needed for the travel being used and work in reverse as the shocks rebound back to full height.
The Ranger Raptor’s ability to tackle rough terrain is further enhanced with tough underbody protection. The front bashplate is almost double the size of the standard Ranger bashplate and made from 2.3 mm-thick high-strength steel. This bashplate, combined with the engine undershield and transfer case shield, provides protection for key components like the radiator, steering system, front cross member, engine sump and front differential.
For the first time, the Ranger Raptor gets an advanced permanent 4-wheel drive system with an all-new electronically controlled on-demand 2-speed transfer case, combined with front and rear locking differentials, a feature that hardcore off-roaders will appreciate.
Unlike other pick-up trucks in the market with bodykits to just give a sportier image, the Ranger Raptor’s was specially developed by Ford Performance. The flared fenders accommodate a choice of two muscular 17-inch wheel designs, one with beadlock capability, and each wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain tyres.
Functional vents, aero features, and tough, new-design cast aluminium side steps help enhance the look and functionality of the truck. At the rear, LED taillights provide a signature link to the front, while the precision grey rear bumper features an integrated step pad and towbar that is tucked up high to aid the truck’s departure angle.
Inside, the theme continues to emphasize the off-road performance and high-energy nature of the exterior. The cabin features all-new, jet fighter-inspired sports seats – both in the front and rear – that are not only more comfortable but more supportive during high-speed cornering.
When the first Ranger Raptor was launched in Malaysia, its RM209,000 pricetag was thought to be excessive. But much to SDAC’s surprise, the model was in high demand. It was just the thing for the hardcore types who could get a factory-ready truck with genuine high performance – and with a warranty too.
While the Ford Ranger has just entered its fourth generation, its high-performance variant – the Ranger Raptor – is just getting into its second generation. The Raptor suffix, as you would know by now, is what Ford puts on its most powerful variants of the production Ranger and F-150 (and more recently, the Bronco too). These are developed by Ford Performance and have been setting the performance benchmark for pick-up trucks.
With the new generation, the Ranger Raptor gets smarter technology controlling tougher, next‑generation hardware. While raw power is still the name of the game, technology also has a big role in using all the performance available.
“We’ve really focused on delivering a genuine performance truck with the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor,” said Dave Burn, Ford Performance chief programme engineer for new model. “It’s significantly faster, looks incredible, is packed with new features, and it’s the toughest Ranger we’ve ever made.”
First generation of the Ranger Raptor.
New 3-litre V6 petrol engine
As speculated, there is a new powerplant and it runs on petrol. This is an all-new twin-turbo 3-litre V6 engine from Ford’s EcoBoost family. Tuned by Ford Performance, it is expected to produce up to 288 ps/491 Nm. The engine has a tough compacted graphite-iron cylinder block, which is around 75% stronger and up to 75% stiffer than the iron used in traditional castings.
The engineers have tuned engine to deliver immediate response to throttle inputs, and have installed a race-bred anti-lag system similar to that first seen on the Ford GT road car and Focus ST which enables rapid delivery of boost on demand. The system, available in Baja mode, keeps the turbochargers spinning for up to 3 seconds after the driver backs off the throttle, allowing for faster resumption of acceleration out of corners or through the gears when the driver steps back on the accelerator. In addition, the engine is programmed with an individual turbocharging boost profile for each of the advanced 10-speed automatic transmission’s gears, for optimised performance.
The new powertrain has an electronically‑controlled active exhaust system amplifies the engine note in 4 selectable modes to adapt its vocal character. Drivers can choose their preferred engine sound by pressing a button on the steering wheel, or by selecting a drive mode that uses one of the following settings – Quiet, Normal, Sport, or Baja. In the Baja mode, intended for off-road use only, the exhaust behaves more like a straight-through system.
2-litre EcoBlue bi-turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine will also be available for the new Ranger Raptor, but from 2023.
The 3-litre engine may be bigger than what is practical for the Peninsular Malaysian market and Ford says it will continue to offer the 2-litre EcoBlue bi‑turbodiesel 4-cylinder engine in some markets. However, it will only be available from 2023.
Hardware for the hardest conditions
The chassis of the new Ranger Raptor differs from that of the new Ranger. It has mounts and reinforcements in certain areas to give the truck greater capability to handle more punishing off-road conditions.
Ford engineers also completely redesigned the suspension. There are new tough yet lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms, long‑travel front and rear suspension and a refined Watt’s link rear end, all to deliver more control across rough terrain at high speeds.
The suspension upgrades in the Ranger Raptor make the most of the new FOX Live Valve dampers. The suspension adapts in real-time to enable exceptional on-road body control while absorbing corrugations and bigger ruts off-road with ease, ensuring maximum control and performance.
The next-generation FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve internal by-pass shock absorbers feature advanced control technology offering position-sensitive damping capability. These shock absorbers are the most sophisticated ever fitted to the Ranger Raptor and are filled with Teflon‑infused oil that reduces friction by around 50% compared to those on the first generation. While the hardware is FOX, the tuning and development work was carried out by Ford Performance using a mixture of computer-aided engineering and real-world testing.
Linked to revised selectable drive modes, the Live Valve internal by-pass system has been developed to provide better on-road comfort and off-road ride quality both at high and low speed. In addition to working with the drive modes, the system works in the background to prepare for different conditions. As the shocks compress, different zones within the by-pass system give exactly the amount of support needed for the travel being used, and work in reverse as the shocks rebound back to full height.
To provide protection against severe bottom outs, race-proven FOX Bottom-Out Control provides maximum damping force in the last 25% of shock travel. Similarly, the system can stiffen the rear dampers to prevent Ranger Raptor from squatting under hard acceleration, improving vehicle stability.
The new Ranger Raptor gets some serious underbody protection. The front bash plate is almost double the size of the one in standard new Ranger, and is made from 2.3 mm thick high-strength steel.
All-terrain control
For the first time, the Ranger Raptor gets an advanced full-time 4-wheel drive system with an all‑new electronically‑controlled on-demand 2-speed transfer case. This is combined with front and rear locking differentials which is something that will be greatly appreciated by hardcore off-road drivers.
With 7 drive modes, the truck’s character can be optimised for anything from smooth roads to mud and ruts. Each selectable drive mode adjusts a number of elements from engine and transmission to ABS sensitivity and calibration, traction and stability controls, exhaust valve actuation, steering and throttle response. In addition, the gauges, vehicle information and colour themes on the instrument cluster and centre touchscreen change with the selected drive mode.
Trail Control is something like cruise control but for off‑roading. The driver simply selects a set speed below 32 km/h and the vehicle will manage its acceleration and braking while the driver concentrates on steering through difficult terrain.
Tough and athletic
Looks-wise, the new Ranger Raptor has similarities with the new Ranger but gets a bolder appearance with more visual muscle. The matrix LED headlights with LED daytime running lights raise lighting performance to new levels, featuring predictive curve lights, glare-free high beam and auto dynamic levelling.
Functional vents, aero features and tough, grippy cast-aluminium side steps enhance the look and functionality of the truck. At the rear, LED taillights provide a signature styling link to the front, while the Precision Grey rear bumper features an integrated step pad and towbar that is tucked up high to avoid compromising the departure angle.
Inside, the theme continues to emphasize off-road performance. The cabin features all-new, jet fighter-inspired sports seats in the front and rear to increase comfort and offer more support during high-speed cornering.
The Code Orange accents on the instrument panel, trim and seats are mirrored by the ambient lighting which bathes the interior in an amber glow. Occupants will also benefit from the latest digital technology such as a 12.4‑inch all-digital cluster and 12-inch centre touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
To locate a showroom to view and test-drive Ford trucks in Malaysia, visit www.sdacford.com.my.
